By
Alex Smith |
CalMac’s new passenger ferry Glen Sannox has formally entered service, completing its first timetabled sailings to the Isle of Arran from mainland Scotland.
Glen Sannox departed from Troon at 06:50 GMT, arriving at Brodick on the Isle of Arran at around 08:15 GMT. Stormy weather caused the two other CalMac ferries operating routes to the Isle of Arran, Catriona and Alfred, to cancel their regular sailings, while the larger Glen Sannox was able to transport stranded passengers to Troon. In total, the ship completed three return sailings in its first day of service, carrying over 1000 passengers.
The 102-metre vessel can carry up to 852 passengers, 127 cars and 16 heavy goods vehicles at one time, and is powered by LNG and diesel fuel. The ferry was built by Scottish shipbuilder Ferguson Marine and was originally scheduled for delivery in 2018.
Glen Sannox completed three return sailings despite challenging conditions
“As the first major new vessel built to serve Arran in over three decades, Glen Sannox will see the island benefit from increased capacity and a more robust service,” said Duncan Mackison, CEO of CalMac. “We hope many, many people will enjoy travelling on her to experience everything our islands have to offer. This is a massive milestone for us and for the people of Arran.”
A sister ship, Glen Rosa, is still under construction at Ferguson Marine and is scheduled to enter service at the end of the year. In total, six large and seven small vessels are on order for CalMac.