CalMac, the ferry operator for Scotland’s west coast, is trialling the MV Ben-My-Chree from the Isle of Man on the busy Arran route to help manage upcoming winter challenges. The 125m Ben-My-Chree, typically a backup ferry for Isle of Man routes, will conduct berthing trials at Troon and Brodick this week. If successful, CalMac may charter the vessel to boost service on the Arran route[1]CalMac to trial Isle of Man ferry on Arran route, BBC.com while freeing up other ferries for use elsewhere.
CalMac’s fleet is under pressure this winter, with some vessels undergoing maintenance and others nearing retirement. The main Arran ferry, MV Caledonian Isles, has been out of action for nine months due to costly repairs, while other vessels, like the MV Hebridean Isles, are scheduled to be retired. The new Glen Sannox ferry has also been delayed, and it’s now expected to be ready next year.
To keep services running, CalMac has already chartered the catamaran Alfred. The Ben-My-Chree could provide essential support for Arran services and give CalMac flexibility with its fleet. [2]CalMac forced to draft in Isle of Man ferry on Scotland's busiest route after vessel problems, Scotsman.com However, a full charter would need approval from multiple parties, and Ben-My-Chree would still have to be available as a backup for the Isle of Man when required.
With only one new large vessel added in the past decade, CalMac’s ageing fleet is struggling to meet demand. The Ben-My-Chree trial could help CalMac manage this challenging winter season by adding capacity and reliability to the Arran route.
References
| ↑1 | CalMac to trial Isle of Man ferry on Arran route, BBC.com |
|---|---|
| ↑2 | CalMac forced to draft in Isle of Man ferry on Scotland's busiest route after vessel problems, Scotsman.com |
JW, one of the co-founders of FerryGoGo, has a passion for food, drink, and travel. He loves exploring data and the history of the many destinations featured on FerryGoGo, and he's always curious about the population of each place.
