Home / Disasters and Accidents / Arran Ferry Woes: New Fault Halts Service Again
Arran Ferry Woes: New Fault Halts Service Again
17 Mar
Summary
- MV Glen Sannox ferry suffers new engine fault, suspending Arran sailings.
- Another major Arran ferry and chartered vessel are also unavailable.
- Ship experienced vibration issues and hull cracks previously.
Service on the primary route to Arran has been suspended since Monday afternoon due to a fresh technical issue with the MV Glen Sannox ferry. The vessel is experiencing a port main engine warning light problem, halting sailings between Troon and Brodick. This new fault occurred shortly after the ship's return to service following a three-month absence for an annual overhaul and repairs to address vibration issues.
The situation is compounded by the unavailability of the MV Caledonian Isles, the other main ferry serving Arran, which is out of service until Wednesday. Furthermore, a chartered catamaran typically providing backup for the route is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance. CalMac, the operator, confirmed the new fault on Glen Sannox arose after a spare part was fitted, despite the ship appearing to run well initially.
The MV Glen Sannox, the UK's first LNG dual-fuel ferry, faced years of delays and cost overruns before entering service in January 2025. It had previously been found to have a small weld crack in its hull, attributed to excessive vibration caused by propeller cavitation. Modifications to the propellers are expected later this year, with the shipyard potentially covering the £3.2m cost of remedial work under warranty.
The MV Caledonian Isles, a 33-year-old vessel, is also expected to resume service on Wednesday, albeit with weather restrictions due to past technical faults. The alternative Arran route via Claonaig on the Kintyre peninsula will cease operations at 13:00 on Tuesday due to adverse weather. The MV Glen Sannox was scheduled for trials on Little Minch routes but these were postponed to cover cancellations.
