Ferry services to return to normal following Covid staff absences

Caledonian MacBrayne had announced changes to timetables in January after staff absences increased by 166%.

Ferry services to return to normal following Covid staff absences iStock

Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has announced that services are due to revert back to a full running timetable following Covid-related staff absences.

CalMac ferries, for passengers and freight, serve Scotland’s islands across the north and west.

The ferry operator announced on January 3 that they were unable to operate at full capacity and introduced an essential services timetable, after staff absences increased by 166%.

The temporary timetable was due to run until February 6, however after a “noticeable decrease” in Covid-related staff absences, CalMac’s winter timetable will return on Wednesday, January 26.

Managing director Robbie Drummond said: “I am pleased to say that because of a significant drop in the number of staff unable to work due to covid we can now offer a full winter service on the majority of routes.

“Thank you to all passengers for their patience and understanding and we look forward to welcoming them back on board.”