TOURISTS to a Scottish island face stowing their vehicles on a cargo ship and travelling by ferry as part of moves to ensure holidays go ahead amid a shortage of vessels.
Holidaymakers visiting the Island of Islay have faced delays and disruption after operator CalMac was forced to withdraw one of its ferries when it hit a pier.
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The Islay ferry service has been reduced to just one vessel since Saturday after the MV Hebridean Isles was suspended.
CalMac has now chartered a freight vessel to ferry car traffic from Kennacraig to Islay and back to ease congestion on the route while the vessel is being repaired.
“This is a stop-gap to minimise disruption where possible; we are endeavouring to get everyone to Islay and back who wants to go,” said CalMac’s operations director, Drew Collier.
The ferry operator said the cargo ship – called the Red Princess – will not sail on the original timetable and passengers would have to rendez-vous with the vehicle later.
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“We would urge people to think about whether they need to bring their car to the island over the next week and whether or not they would be prepared to have it shipped separately,” said Mr Collier.
“We are confident we can get vehicles back to people who choose this option promptly and will provide extra help with luggage and free taxi or minibus transport on the island in the meantime.”
The Red Princess cannot carry passengers, but will be able to transport 20 cars or a number of commercial vehicle.
“There will be delays due to the nature of the operation unfortunately, however we are determined to continue to deliver a service that meets the needs of island residents and visitors, we appreciate people’s patience,” he said.
“Our customer contact team will be in touch with everyone who is booked on the service over the next week to let them know what their options are and how we propose to get them to their destination and when. Again we would like to apologise for any inconvenience,” he added.
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Extra capacity is also being provided on Saturday through private charter to support the Colonsay route which, is also usually served by the MV Hebridean Isles.
It is anticipated that the MV Hebridean Isles will be out of service for around a week.
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