Corran Ferry services update – Thursday 18 December
At approximately 10:30 am on Tuesday, 16 December, the Maid of Glencoul the relief vessel for the main MV Corran (who is currently in drydock for its annual refit), experienced a steering fault and was withdrawn from service. By 1:30 pm the same day, a foot passenger only service was introduced and will remain in operation until further notice.
Alternative Services:
- A 12-passenger foot service across the Corran Narrows (Nether Lochaber to Ardgour) has commenced and will follow the normal ferry service timetable, until further notice.
- An additional passenger service will operate immediately between Camusnagaul and Fort William Pier. Check Highland Ferries for details (external link).
- Plans are underway for a connecting shuttle bus service between Strontian, Ardgour, and Camusnagaul. Further information will follow.
Please note: Foot-passenger-only services will operate to the normal ferry timetable until further notice.
Economy & Infrastructure Committee Chair, Cllr Ken Gowans, said: “It is deeply regrettable that we are currently unable to provide a vehicle crossing service on the Corran Ferry route due to the annual refit of the main MV Corran and the current steering fault of the Maid of Glencoul. The ageing fleet continues to present significant challenges for our communities, which is why we remain committed to accelerating delivery of new infrastructure and the electric ferry programme.
“Specialist engineers from the original manufacturer are being mobilised to carry out a full inspection of the Maid of Glencoul’s steering system and confirm the necessary repairs. Given their existing commitments and the upcoming festive period, they are currently working closely with the Corran Ferry crew remotely to diagnose the fault, with an on-site assessment prioritised as soon as they become available.
“We sincerely apologise for the disruption and appreciate the patience of service users. Please be assured that every effort is being made to expedite essential works and restore the service safely and as quickly as possible.”
Maid of Glencoul’s ramp access - Prior to the Maid of Glencoul being withdrawn from service (Tuesday 16 December 2025), and as an agreed recommendation at the Corran Ferry Stakeholder Group meeting on Monday, 8 December 2025, a naval architect conducted an on-site assessment of the ramps. This included a review of recent refit work, specifically the replacement of worn stools. Initial feedback indicates options to improve access for low-slung vehicles, and a written report is being prepared.
MV Corran – The main vessel on the Corran Ferry service route is currently in dry dock for its annual service and refit, the current completion programme, remains as early 2026, with a more definitive timeline expected in January. Parts for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) equipment required for emergent repairs identified during dry dock remain subject to lead-time challenges. Every effort is being made to accelerate delivery to ensure the MV Corran can return to service promptly.
The Highland Council would like to apologise to customers for the disruption and thank our third-party operators for providing timely alternative foot passenger services. It is our priority to provide service alternatives while the MV Corran undergoes its annual refit and repairs to the Maid of Glencoul are completed.