The Highland Council is advising communities that the Maid of Glencoul developed a technical fault this morning and the vessel is currently out of service. A specialist engineer is expected to attend on site early tomorrow morning to expedite the repair.
To ensure continued connectivity for residents, businesses and visitors, contingency measures have been activated:
Temporary Foot Passenger Services
- A temporary foot passenger shuttle service between Ardgour and Corran began operating at 14:00 today (Friday 20 February).
- This service will run in line with the normal Corran Ferry timetable, available to view here. (external link)
- The Camusnagaul–Fort William service is also operating on an enhanced timetable to support increased demand.
Road Diversions
The A861 alternative route around the Loch is expected to be busier than usual. Drivers are asked to:
- Allow extra journey time
- Avoid travelling in convoy
- Use passing places to let traffic safely pass
Economy and Infrastructure Committee Chair, Cllr Ken Gowans said: “Every possible step has been taken to keep the Maid of Glencoul in service as a relief vessel while the MV Corran undergoes refit. Unfortunately, today’s fault requires a specialist engineer, who will attend site early tomorrow morning. We fully recognise how disappointing and disruptive this is for communities who rely on the crossing. Our priority as always is the safety of passengers and crew, and we are working to ensure the service resumes as soon as safely possible. Bringing the MV Corran as the main vessel back into service remains our clear focus, and work continues to expedite this as soon as possible in the immediate term.”