CalMac's newest ferry, the MV Isle of Islay, has arrived in Scotland after a challenging journey across the Mediterranean and North Atlantic. The vessel, which can carry 450 passengers and 100 cars or 14 HGVs, will serve the Kennacraig to Islay route. The ferry's arrival marks a significant departure from previous CalMac designs, with a deeper draught and more traditional diesel engines, but with some battery power for manoeuvring in port. The ship's crew, who faced treacherous weather and sea conditions, were involved in a CalMac first - saving a life at sea off the coast of Morocco. The final fit-out and crew familiarisation are expected to take two weeks, followed by berthing trials before it enters service in late March. The journey from Turkey saw the ferry pass through Greek islands and the coastlines of Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, making it a historic moment for CalMac. The ship's arrival has been celebrated by the First Minister, John Swinney, and the Transport Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, who praised the crew's skill and dedication. The MV Isle of Islay is the first of four new CalMac ferries being built in Turkey, with three more due to be delivered at six-monthly intervals.
