CalMac on crest of a wave over news of second BBC series of Island Crossings
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A SECOND series of a documentary series charting the ups and downs of ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has been commissioned.
It follows the success of the first series of Island Crossings, the BBC’s eight-part documentary about the firm.
The first series went behind the scenes to report on the working lives of the crew and staff who serve west coast communities across the network – amongst them a lifeline link between Ullapool and Stornoway.
It also focused on many of the people and communities which depend on CalMac, exploring their way of life and livelihoods.
Feedback about the first series from viewers, CalMac staff and communities has been very positive, the company said.
Island Crossings is being created by IWC Media, the production company behind Susan Calman’s Secret Scotland (Channel 5), Scotland’s Home of The Year (BBC One) and Location, Location, Location (Channel 4).
They are preparing to travel the network once again in a bid to gather stories and filming opportunities. The second series will feature many people and places across the network.
Robbie Drummond, chief executive of CalMac, said: “We are delighted with the success of series one, and are really looking forward to providing more insights into how CalMac operates. I really welcome the opportunity for us to give a true reflection of the lengths our people go to, to provide the best service we can for our communities and customers, highlighting the service that our colleagues provide every day even in challenging circumstances.
“Our customers constantly tell us how much they value and appreciate the people who work for CalMac, and Island Crossings is giving us the ideal platform to show viewers how committed they are to helping customers and island communities.”
All of the episodes of series one of Island Crossings are available to view on BBC iPlayer here
More of our reports about CalMac here.
Want to know more about CalMac?
CalMac is the UK's largest ferry operator, running 29 routes to over 50 destinations, across 200 miles of Scotland's west coast.
The fleet of 35 vessels complete approximately 136,000 sailings a year with crossings ranging from five minutes to five-and-a-half hours. 2019 was its busiest year to date during which it carried more than 5.6 million passengers.
CalMac provides an everyday lifeline service to west coast communities, and for tourism, plays a critical role in enabling its development, a crucial part of the area's economy.
