Loch Seaforth to lay-up in Stornoway

Scotland’s Transport Minister Derek Mackay is due discuss ferry issues with tourism representatives and the council on Monday.

Meanwhile, the new MV Loch Seaforth ferry is to arrive in Stornoway Harbour in the morning.

The £42 million vessel is expected to berth at Arnish - instead of the Clyde - while undergoing berthing trials at the delayed ferry pier this month.

Mr Mackay is to give an indication over plans to commence fare-paying sailings.

In addition, he will confirm the Scottish Government is to fund the extra cash required to allow the MV Isle of Lewis to remain on stand-by over the summer until users are satisfied with the reliability of the new ship.

Derek Mackay will also discuss proposed timetables - which includes a reduced number of sailings - for diverting vehicle traffic via Skye when the Ullapool linkspan is being replaced in April.

Loch Seaforth expected to lay-up in Stornoway

1 February 2015

Hold-ups in finishing number three pier in Stornoway harbour is preventing the Loch Seaforth from starting fare-paying voyages.

The pier - which should have been ready last summer - is still under construction with the last of large fenders being installed. Civil engineers faced problems in strengthening the structure to handle robust berthing.

The 7,800 tonne modern ship will try out docking and lorry loading trials at the upgraded berth before being phased-in on the Stornoway to Ullapool route.

After she receives full access to the pier, the Loch Seaforth will undertake occasional commercial voyages instead of the present MV Isle of Lewis during an estimated 14 day test period.

The vessel has never carried a full load nor accommodated passengers, so will initially shadow the present car ferry, MV Isle of Lewis as well as the freight vessel, MV Clipper Ranger, for the Minch crossing.