MV Glen Sannox returns to service after repairs to hull crack

The MV Glen Sannox returned on Sunday after it was pulled from service due to the discovery of a crack in the hull.

CalMac confirmed the vessel was removed from service on Friday, just two weeks after returning from planned works.

It came after a crack was discovered on a weld seam on the vessel’s hull, which is close to the waterline.

The ferry operator said as a result, all MV Glen Sannox sailings on Saturday had been cancelled.

A spokesperson for CalMac said repairs were completed on the vessel, and it returned to its timetabled service on Sunday.

The first morning return sailing was cancelled, and the MV Glen Sannox resumed service at 14.50 from Brodick.

MV Glen Sannox was removed from service on Friday after a crack on a weld seam was discovered. CalMac

A CalMac spokesperson said: “Repairs to the hairline crack on a weld seam on MV Glen Sannox have been completed.

“A preliminary test indicates the welding has been successful, but a second test will be carried out tomorrow morning when the welded area has completely cooled. If this test is successful, MV Glen Sannox will resume service at 14.50 from Brodick.

“This means the first morning return sailing is cancelled, but all booked customers can be accommodated on other sailings with space available. The 12.40 MV Alfred was due to operate from Brodick will be brought forward to 11.20.

“We are grateful to the vessel’s crew, our local port staff, plus the dive and repair teams for their speedy response to this issue.”

The incident with the vessel comes just days after it returned to service after planned works took place from February 24 to March 2.

The vessel had its first official sailing on January 13 departing from Troon.

Scottish Conservative MSP for West Scotland Jamie Greene said: “This latest fault has marked yet another unforgivable chapter in this shambolic ferry fiasco.

“While it’s welcome that services are to resume on Sunday, passengers will wonder why problems arose with the Glen Sannox just weeks into launching after a seven-year delay.

“Long-suffering islanders deserve better and will rightly be appalled by this latest failure which has left some passengers stranded.

“It is an absolute disgrace that not a single SNP minister has been held to account for their part in this national scandal which continues to unravel.

“Urgent clarity must be given on why a crack in the ship’s hull occurred in the first place and assurances must be given that the Glen Rosa will not suffer a similar fate.”