MV Alfred charter is extended

Transport Scotland has agreed to a six-month extension of CalMac’s current charter of MV Alfred, which will provide additional resource through the winter and annual overhaul period.

The charter will now be in place until 21 August 2024, with deployment plans set to be confirmed as soon as possible.

CalMac is working closely with owners Pentland Ferries to expedite a ramp modification solution to improve the interface at Campbeltown and Troon when MV Alfred is deployed on Islay. Islay deployment will be restricted to operating to and from Ardrossan until these modifications are complete. Customers will be informed as these modifications progress.

Options to improve catering options for customers, when the vessel is deployed on Islay due to the extended passage time, are also being explored. Customers will be kept informed through service updates channels and at the time of booking.

Robbie Drummond, CalMac’s Chief Executive, said: “We very much welcome the extension of the charter of MV Alfred for a further six months. The vessel has been a valuable addition to the CalMac fleet and has provided much-needed resilience on the main Arran route while MV Hebridean Isles was off service for an extended period.

“Recent berthing trials have confirmed which ports she can operate out of and plans for her next deployment are now underway.

“Everyone at CalMac remains committed to providing our communities with the best possible service.”