CalMac changes announced while Arran waits

MV Caledonian Isles was set to return to the Ardrossan-Brodick route on September 23 but problems with the port gearbox meant that the vessel had to be moved to dock in Greenock for further investigation and work.

Investigations have now defined that the port main gearbox will need a full overhaul. Spare parts should be on the vessel early this week, the gearbox has been stripped down, and cleaning will be completed before the new spares are installed. Once repairs are completed, alignment work with the gearbox and engine will be required.

"It is anticipated that it may be a further 10 days before the vessel can return to service -  this is subject to change based on repairs and alignment," said a CalMac spokesperson announcing temporary changes to Mull and South Uist services for a further week while repairs to Arran’s vessel continue.

MV Hebridean Isles will stay on the main Arran route while MV Lord of the Isles will stay on the Islay service. In order to restore a service to and from South Uist, MV Isle of Mull will operate a combined timetable operating Craignure and Lochboisdale from Thursday October 3. 

This will result in some cancellations between Craignure and Mull – the timetables can be viewed on the CalMac website.

MV Clansman will cover the affected Oban-Craignure sailings on Saturday, providing cover for displaced traffic on what will be the busiest day of the week for Mull.

A CalMac spokeswoman said: “We are very sorry for this further disruption, and we are extremely grateful to customers for their patience and understanding when their bookings had to be moved. Our teams are working closely with external contractors to ensure that MV Caledonian Isles can return to usual service as quickly as possible.”