Launch of new ferry is postponed 23/1/14
► Delay to new Stornoway ferry
The new Stornoway ferry is set to be launched a month late with a knock-on delay to her delivery schedule.
Last year Hebrides News reported that the ship building hit a snag because a gale ripped off part of the roof of the ship building hall at the Flensburger shipyard in Germany where the main hull of the vessel is being constructed.
The damage slowed down the assembly of two vessels ahead of the MV Loch Seaforth.
The knock-on effect means her new launch date is now pencilled-in for 14 March.
The ship is due to be handed over and delivered in mid-July, said owners, Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL).
After legal surveys and sea trials, the 116 metre long vessel is expected to enter service between Stornoway and Ullapool on an unconfirmed date in summer 2014. Hebrides News understand this may be closer to autumn.
Cal Mac have selected three captains for the ship and they have undertaken ship simulator training - based on the MV Loch Seaforth’s capabilities - in Norway. The navigator simulator also includes berthing at both Stornoway and Ullapool harbours.
The keel of the MV Loch Seaforth will be laid in about ten days, on Monday 3rd February. Steel sections for her hull and lower decks are being pre-fabricated in other parts of the yard. The ship will soon take shape when they are welded onto her frame in the covered building hall.
Decks 5,6 and 7 for the ship are currently being manufactured at a shipyard in Gdansk and will be shipped into Germany for final assembly.
After the launch, work will continue to fit out the ship.
► Delay to new Stornoway ferry