New ferry braves gale

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To sea or not to sea - new ferry braves gale 6/11/14

With all sailings cancelled due to adverse conditions, the Stornoway ferry MV Isle of Lewis is firmly tied to her berth while her successor steams down the same stretch of water at full speed.

The irony is not lost on islanders.

One observer said: “Its amazing the MV Isle of Lewis sitting in Stornoway all day because off the bad weather and her replacement, MV Loch Seaforth, sailing down the Minch doing 18 plus knots.”

One factor is the new £42 million Loch Seaforth is said to incorporate design features to handle wave action in the Minch.

Another is the absence of passengers who may be injured or vehicles which could topple if the ship pitches or rolls heavily.

However, the main reason is likely to be the direction and speed of the weather and swell conditions.

Strong southerly winds - with gusts over 50 mph - are blasting up the Minch which would slam straight into the Lewis crossing at right angles. She would also be hit by heavy swell making a very unpleasant journey for passengers.

In addition, harbours on both sides impose weather restrictions on vessels entering port and the prevailing winds makes berthing hazardous.

In contrast, the MV Loch Seaforth is on a far more easier course. She is cutting into the oncoming sea on her south-bound voyage to Greenock which makes for an better ride than a right angled course to Ullapool. She could also reduce speed to take the waves better.

The Seaforth steamed down the length of Lewis on Thursday morning and is expected to arrive in Greenock on Friday where further internal fitting-out work will be undertaken. The ship also needs survey work - which is the norm with a new-build vessel.