The maiden voyage of the MV Glen Sannox, the first ferry constructed in the UK to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG), is set to finally take place on January 13, 2024. This highly anticipated ship will serve the busy Troon to Brodick route, bringing much-needed capacity to the island of Arran.
CalMac Ferries, the state-owned operator, confirmed this date following successful completion of preliminary sea trials. Duncan Mackison, the CEO of CalMac, expressed enthusiasm for the ship’s performance, stating, "The feedback from our crew has been... real excitement across CalMac about getting her to service and serving Arran."
Initially slated for delivery back in May 2018, the MV Glen Sannox became embroiled in controversy due to excessive delays and soaring costs. Originally contracted for £97 million, the total investment reportedly ballooned to approximately £380 million. It has sparked significant discussions about efficiency and accountability within Scotland's ferry services.
Fiona Hyslop, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, hailed the vessel's entry as "very welcome news", indicating it will support the Arran community and improve the wider ferry network. She noted, "She will deliver increased capacity on the busiest route on the Clyde and Hebrides network, and we can all now look forward to her bringing benefits to our island communities and ferry users." The opening of this new route is expected to significantly bolster transport capacity with eight return sailings scheduled daily between the mainland and the island.
The MV Glen Sannox is part of a two-ferry production contract alongside MV Glen Rosa, with both vessels originally expected to bring new life to the beleaguered ferry services. Mackison reassured ferry users, saying, "There has been understandable concern about the future of MV Caledonian Isles, but her future prognosis is good, and we are increasingly confident she will return to serve Arran."
While the MV Glen Sannox prepares for her debut, the MV Caledonian Isles is undergoing necessary maintenance, set to return to service by the busy summer season of 2025. Mackison confirmed the vessel would re-enter the dry dock for steel renewal works and adjustment trials following its upkeep, emphasizing the importance of reliable ferry service to island residents.
With the Scottish Government committed to modernizing Scotland's ferry fleet, Hyslop noted, "The MV Glen Sannox is the first of six new major vessels set to serve Scotland’s ferry network, starting early 2025, underlining the Scottish Government’s commitment to investing in our fleet and delivering the resilient services our island communities need and deserve." This heralds not just the arrival of the new vessel but the beginning of what could be significant improvements across Scotland's maritime transport systems.
The entry of MV Glen Sannox and the anticipated return of MV Caledonian Isles collectively mark important milestones for ferry services connecting the mainland to the islands, and they symbolize the Scottish Government’s dedication to enhancing transport infrastructure. With community consultations underway for the winter timetable, all eyes are on the January 13 launch as locals and visitors alike await the benefits this new ferry will bring.
Overall, the debut of the MV Glen Sannox is more than just about operational service; it reflects hopes for economic rejuvenation for island communities across Arran and beyond. The excitement is palpable as both residents and officials look forward to smoother sailings and enhanced connectivity, truly making this vessel's launch one of the most important events for maritime service users this coming year.
