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The sudden withdrawal from service of a Western Isles ferry is causing changes to timetables.

The MV Lord of the Isles was pulled off the Lochboidale -Mallaig route to head for her second drydock in just eight weeks.

The vessel requires to change her propellers to improve power and performance.

Her manoeuvring and berthing abilities should be improved when she returns from the Mersey.

The MV Isle of Arran has been despatched from her relief runs for Lochmaddy and Tarbert to cover her South Uist / Barra schedules.

The temporary timetable on the Uig triangle has been changed again to reflect the MV Hebridean Isles operating as the sole vessel on that route while the MV Hebrides is absent on her annual refit.

However, sailings on the run were cancelled by strong winds on Wednesday afternoon.

Yet more timing changes will be implemented to allow the vessel to catch-up on Thursday.

A CalMac spokesman said: “After careful monitoring of the performance of the MV Lord of the Isles over many months, particularly on the challenging Lochboisdale Mallaig route, our technical and marine team have recommended changes in the vessel's propellers to improve its resilience in what are increasingly difficult weather conditions on the west coast.

“The vessel is due back on its normal route early next week.

 

“On its return we will continue to monitor performance in a range of sailing conditions over a period of time.”

 

 

Ferry withdrawn for second drydock in weeks

 

6 January 2016