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Engine failure sparks removal of MV Loch Seaforth from CalMac's Ullapool-Stornoway service 'until at least the end of April'


By Philip Murray

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The MV Loch Seaforth. Picture: Alan Jamieson, via Wikimedia Commons.
The MV Loch Seaforth. Picture: Alan Jamieson, via Wikimedia Commons.

MAJOR engine troubles have resulted in the temporary removal of the MV Loch Seaforth from the Ullapool-Stornoway ferry route, CalMac has confirmed.

The ship’s port engine has failed, prompting the removal of the vessel from active service until “at least the end of April” – and the redeployment of the MV Isle of Lewis to fill in for it.

The overnight freight service has also been suspended “until further notice”.

A CalMac spokesman said: “Due to a major failure of the port engine with MV Loch Seaforth, the vessel requires substantial repairs and she has been removed from service and will be taken to dock as soon as possible.

“It is expected that the vessel will be out of service until at least the end of April to allow the engine issue to be thoroughly investigated and repaired.

“As a result, MV Isle of Lewis has been deployed and the following timetable will be in operation. View the timetable here.

“The MV Isle of Lewis will pick up the day service for passengers and freight on the Ullapool to Stornoway route. The overnight freight service has been suspended until further notice.

“We appreciate the importance of the passenger and freight service on this route and apologise for the inconvenience this amended timetable may cause.

“We’ll keep customers updated throughout. If you’ve not already done so, download our app or follow our Twitter @CalMac_Updates so we can provide you with timely updates, with the latest information we have available. Alternatively, you can also sign up to our service status text updates."


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