Corran Ferry passenger service update – Wednesday 16 August

Further investigation into the steering fault on the Maid of Glencoul has revealed a more serious issue which would need new parts, and this could take several weeks.

By this time, it is expected the MV Corran will be back in service although we do not yet have a precise date for her return.

We continue to work with our external partners, engineers and crew to ensure the timescale for the return of the main vessel, MV Corran is as short as possible.

In the meantime, contingency measures have been put in place.

A temporary passenger service from Ardgour to Fort William began operating yesterday (Tuesday 15 August) at 15:00hrs, in addition rib boats providing a foot passenger service following the route of the Corran Ferry are being mobilised and should be in operation from Thursday 17 August. The free shuttle service will operate to the normal Corran Ferry timetable which is available to view here.

The A861 alternative road routes around the Loch have recently been improved with additional signage and expanded passing places. It is likely to be busier than normal and we ask all drivers to allow extra journey time, to avoid convoy traffic and to use the passing places to allow traffic to safely pass.

The free shuttle bus service to and from Camusnagaul and the enhanced timetable of the Camusnagaul to Fort William passenger ferry will continue.

Economy and Infrastructure Committee Chair, Cllr Ken Gowans said: “Everything possible has been done to maintain the Maid of Glencoul in service, however the health and safety of all passengers and crew is our main priority and we need to be able to operate a safe and effective service.

“Whilst we appreciate this is a very disappointing setback for everyone concerned, we share the disappointment and the frustration. The Council continues to be in consultation with both the Scottish and UK Governments and other partners, and we remain focused on working tirelessly, doing everything we possibly can to find short, medium and long term solutions.

“It remains a priority to bring the main vessel, MV Corran back into service and the team continue to work closely with the boat yard to ensure that this remains on track to return as soon as possible.”