Second ferry crashes into harbour 11/2/14
A second Caledonian Macbrayne ferry has crashed into the pier at Stornoway harbour within a fortnight.
Two ships are presently out of action after the separate accidents.
One vessel is in drydock for major steelwork damage while her replacement has been badly dented after a similar accident.
The MV Hebridean Isles hit Stornoway harbour’s number one pier on Tuesday morning.
The 85-
As a result the ship -
She is unable to undertake the overnight freight run until her buckled deck is fixed.
There are no spare ships available to transport articulated lorries and goods’ vehicles for the freight run across the Minch.
Ironically, the Hebridean Isles was only put on the route because the usual freight ship, MV Clipper Ranger, sustained serious damage in a similar accident. The Ranger is presently undergoing substantial repairs to her hull in Liverpool.
A complete power blackout mean she lost all engine power, generator electricity supply, rudder, propeller and thrusters while undertaking a critical manoeuvre in berthing at Stornoway two weeks ago.
The disabled ship bounced off and nearly grounded after drifting towards the shore.
The 122-metre long Ranger - which is on hire from Seatruck to Cal Mac until September
for an estimated £2 million - is out of action until a number of bashed and crumpled
plates are removed and replaced with new steel.
The bashed pier also requires to be repaired.
A Caledonian Macbrayne spokesman said: "The MV Hebridean Isles was hit by a sudden heavy squall while berthing after returning from the overnight freight run this morning and came into contact with the pier in Stornoway.
“Repairs are underway and we expect her to be fixed by lunchtime Wednesday.
“As a result the overnight freight sailing has been cancelled. We apologise for any inconvenience caused."