The long-overdue CalMac ferry, MV Glen Sannox, has completed a trial run with paying passengers a day ahead of schedule.
The ferry was originally scheduled to sail from the mainland to Arran with passengers for the first time on Monday, following a lengthy saga of delays and cost increases. However, CalMac unexpectedly announced on Sunday evening it had decided to bring forward its maiden voyage by a day to “stress test” the vessel and ensure passengers enjoyed an “optimal” experience on Monday.
The Glen Sannox, which was meant to be delivered almost seven years ago, carried 38 passengers and 15 cars from Troon to Brodick on Sunday afternoon and sailed back carrying 154 passengers, 53 cars and two commercial vehicles, according to CalMac.
Chief executive Duncan Mackison said: “Operating a test run with MV Glen Sannox gave the crew a fantastic opportunity to stress test the vessel and ensure the experience people have aboard is optimal before she formally enters service.
“A massive effort has gone into getting MV Glen Sannox to this stage, and everyone at CalMac is excited to have her in the fleet and serving Arran.”
This comes after a yellow alert was issued by Caledonian MacBrayne today which said tomorrow’s voyage may be subject to delay or cancellation due to high winds. On social media, CalMac wrote: “Due to forecast high winds, the following sailings operated by MV Glen Sannox are liable to disruption or cancellation at short notice: Depart Troon – 06:30, depart Brodick – 08:40.”
CalMac also confirmed two outstanding issues it identified regarding the starboard mezzanine deck and the sewage system have been resolved ahead of the vessel formally entering service on Monday. A replacement valve has been sourced and fitted on the starboard mezzanine deck, meaning both mezzanine decks are now fully operational. The sewage system has also been fully optimised for passenger travel.
The new large vessel is the first to join the UK’s largest ferry fleet in nearly a decade and is one of two major ferries being constructed at Ferguson Marine in Port Glasgow. The ships are due to cost £360million – compared to an original estimate of £90million.
The ferry and the 3,000-tonne sister ship Glen Rosa were first ordered in 2015 and have endured a saga of costly delays and technical problems – originally due for delivery in 2018. The Ferguson Marine shipyard in Port Glasgow where they have been built was nationalised during the process and the cost of building both vessels has spiralled.
Glen Sannox will serve Arran and operate from Troon, South Ayrshire, with the Caledonian Isles ferry forming the other part of a two-vessel service to the island from Ardrossan, North Ayrshire, from March 28.
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