Christmas ferry disruption warnings 23/12/11
Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne is warning of possible disruptions to its services on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day due to forecast high winds.
There are no scheduled services on Christmas Day, but CalMac says that the weather forecast over the weekend in many parts of its network is giving some cause for concern, and customers are advised to check the Cal Mac website for the latest information.
Strong south westerly winds may result in gusts up to 60 mphs over the Minch tomorrow. Wind speeds will peak during the morning but rough seas and Force 8 squalls are expected to continue late on.
Christams Day and Boxing Day will also be very blustery though unseasonably mild in the islands with rough seas.
A CalMac spokesman said: "We will do everything we can to get everyone safely to where they need to be for Christmas.
"Based on the current forecast, ferry travellers may wish to consider travelling earlier on Christmas Eve and later on Boxing Day, or the following day, if their plans allow.
"We are grateful for the patience and understanding of all our customers at this
time and wish them a Merry Christmas.”