MV Caledonian Isles £1m repairs extended for weeks after issues with engines and steelwork uncovered

A ferry which has been in a dry dock for maintenance since early January will remain out of service for several weeks.

CalMac apologised for any inconvenience caused to regular passengers on the MV Caledonian Isles, which usually sails on the Troon-Brodick route, after it emerged further repair work was required on the vessel.

It had previously been due to leave the yard in Greenock on February 3 before issues with the engines, steelwork and bearings were noted by engineers.

Plans already in place to cover the ferry in its absence will remain in place until at least February 16, the operator said.

The vessel, which first launched in 1993, was in the process of undergoing around £1m worth of renovations.

CalMac chief executive, Robbie Drummond, said: “We apologise for the impact this will have on the Arran community, we know how disappointing it will be for customers who were expecting normal service to resume next week.

“I visited MV Caledonian Isles in dock this week and can assure customers that extensive work is being carried out to ensure her safe return to service.

“I would like to thank our teams who are working hard to find solutions and provide the best service possible during this period.

“In the meantime, CalMac’s port and customer service teams will continue to manage traffic on Brodick-Ardrossan and Lochranza-Claonaig, while the freight service between Troon and Brodick will continue to operate.”