“Outstanding results” for MV Loch Seaforth 9/11/14
The MV Loch Seaforth, the new Stornoway ferry, has recorded “outstanding results”
in her sea trials according to her German builders.
Peter Sierk, managing director of the Flensburger yard said: “The ship’s fuel consumption
was about nine percent below what we had pledged in the contract.
‘Loch Seaforth also delighted her owners by demonstrating excellent sea-keeping characteristics
and speed performance.”
He pointed out her “top-quality, modern design and construction makes the new ferry
well-suited for 24 hour, round-the-clock operation and she will replace two older
ferries on the route.
Mr Sierk added.“It was for just this reason that our customers made the highest possible
demands on this product.
He said the ship is “expected to operate reliably and without problem while maintaining
a 24-hour, round-the-clock timetable and the results of the sea trials had confirmed,
impressively, that she would do just that.”
However, while the Seaforth is built to handle a 24-hour rota, that does not necessarily
mean the ship will operate non-stop. Her timetable to replace the MV Isle of Lewis
and the MV Clipper Ranger for the Sornoway to Ullapool run is yet to be formally
announced by Cal Mac. Last year Hebrides News revealed there are plans for her to
undertake just two daily runs instead of the present three trips.
► Cal Mac under pressure not to cut ferry service
