No timeframe has been set for the return of a ferry service between mainland Scotland and the Northern Isles after flooding was reported onboard.
M.V. Hjaltland, operated by Northlink Ferries, transports vehicles and passengers daily from Aberdeen to both Shetland and Orkney.
The boat’s pump room flooded on Thursday while it was being refloated. No injuries were reported but the operators have confirmed that repair work needs to be carried out.
The vessel was due to leave the dry dock on Sunday before returning to service on Monday but it is now not known when it will return to operational use.
Stuart Garrett, managing director of Serco NorthLink Ferries, said: “As we were refloating the M.V. Hjaltland in dry dock yesterday evening, a flood occurred in the pump room.
“Nobody was injured in the incident. We are currently assessing the impact of the incident and remedial works required. Until we know more it will not be possible to put a timeframe on its return to service.
“The M.V. Hrossey continues to operate our passenger service between Aberdeen, Kirkwall and Lerwick, with M.V. Helliar and Hildasay providing freight services.
“However, there may be changes to scheduled sailings and our customer service team will be in touch with everyone who is impacted.
“Further information will be provided as it becomes available.”
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