CalMac says fleet in 'better place' as third ferry returns to service

MV Lord of the Isles has returned to service after main engine repairs, and CalMac says several other vessels remain under maintenance while Storm Dave may disrupt sailings over the Easter weekend.

MV Lord of the Isles is ready to sail again after a problem with its main engine put it out of action. The return follows recent recoveries of MV Glen Sannox to the Arran route and MV Isle of Islay entering service. Last weekend CalMac described its network as "critical" after a series of technical faults coincided with scheduled annual maintenance. Chief executive Duncan Mackison warned of possible weather disruption over the Easter weekend from Storm Dave. Current service details: - MV Lord of the Isles suspended sailings on 28 March after a technical issue and has now resumed service following repairs. - MV Glen Sannox has returned to the Arran route and MV Isle of Islay entered service after snagging issues were resolved. - CalMac reported that four ferries needed repairs while four others were away for annual maintenance, creating an unprecedented shortage of vessels. - Two vessels are expected back from annual overhaul next week, the operator said. - The Met Office issued multiple yellow wind warnings for Scotland and SSEN warned gusts could reach about 80mph in parts of the Western Isles and Skye, with snow forecast for some western areas. Summary: Service availability is improving as the MV Lord of the Isles returns to duty, but some routes remain affected by ongoing repairs and annual maintenance. Storm Dave is forecast to bring high winds and snow that may further disrupt sailings over the Easter weekend. CalMac said it expects two vessels to return from overhaul next week and that detailed information is available on its website.