Isle of Arran ferry to return after successful sea trials

An ageing ferry that has been out of service for 18 months is due to return to the Isle of Arran after completing sea trials.

A string of faults forced operator CalMac to pull the MV Caledonian Isles in for repairs costing £12m in January 2024.

It meant the vessel was unable to service the route between Ardrossan in Ayrshire and Brodick on Arran.

The vessel exited drydock in Leith on Wednesday. The Isle of Arran ferry committee said it was expected to return next week after successful trials.

The trials tested issues including instability in propeller pitch response, which is essential for manoeuvring in harbour.

The ferry’s absence meant sailings have departed from Troon to the frustration of islanders and businesses in Ardrossan.

Campaigners complained that Ardrossan faced economic damage as many businesses rely on people who use the ferry.

CalMac is trying to recover millions of pounds of repair costs from Cammell Laird over problems discovered after the Merseyside firm carried out the first phase of work.

CalMac said: “Trials with MV Caledonian Isles have gone to plan and the vessel will transit to the west coast for further berthing and sea trials.

“Crew familiarisation will take place at Ardrossan and Brodick and, all being well, a return to timetabled service will then begin.”