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The MV Caledonian Isles, operated by CalMac, has been facing ongoing technical issues that have led to a repair bill of nearly £11m. The ship has been out of service for 18 months, causing significant financial strain for the ferry operator. CalMac is now seeking compensation from Cammell Laird due to problems discovered during repair work last September, which led to deformation of the ship’s hull requiring extensive remedial work.
The prolonged absence of the MV Caledonian Isles has impacted the west coast ferry network, particularly affecting Ardrossan where the new Arran ferry MV Glen Sannox cannot safely berth. This has forced Glen Sannox to operate from Troon, resulting in longer crossings to Arran and fewer daily sailings. Ardrossan has been without ferry sailings for six months, leading to economic challenges for the area. Temporary cover is being provided by the MV Isle of Arran until the Caledonian Isles is back in service.
The issues with the Caledonian Isles are symptomatic of wider challenges faced by CalMac in maintaining services with an aging and unreliable fleet. The annual repair bill for the fleet has nearly tripled over the past decade due to delays in the provision of new vessels. Half of CalMac’s major vessels have exceeded their expected 30-year service life, leading to difficulties in replacing outdated equipment. To address vessel shortages, CalMac has chartered a catamaran at a significant monthly cost.
Efforts are being made to alleviate the strain on CalMac’s fleet, with new vessels under construction by CMAL expected to arrive in the coming years. The delivery of the first ship, MV Isle of Islay, is on track for completion by the end of September, with additional vessels to follow at six-month intervals. The arrival of new ships should help alleviate some of the pressures faced by CalMac in maintaining its services
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