Navigating Delays: The MV Isle of Islay's Journey Before Christmas

A new setback has hit the construction timeline of the MV Isle of Islay, the first of four ferries being built for the CalMac fleet in Turkey. Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) expressed hope to receive the ferry before Christmas, but acknowledges that achieving this will be a challenge. Initially scheduled for delivery in October 2022, the vessel’s construction has been plagued by supply chain issues and labour shortages. CMAL’s recent update to officials highlighted that while the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) conducted a final survey last October, necessary adjustments are still being made at the Cemre shipyard. A follow-up survey is set for December 8.

The MV Isle of Islay, measuring 95 meters, is designed for the Kennacraig to Islay route and is one of four vessels under construction, with ongoing work on the MV Loch Indaal, and the future MV Lochmor and MV Claymore ferries. After potential delivery in December, the ferry will embark on a two-week journey to Scotland, which will include a refueling stop in Gibraltar and passage across the Bay of Biscay. Once it arrives, CMAL will carry out essential crew training and conduct berthing trials at various ports before the vessel enters service. Encouragingly, CMAL reassured stakeholders that all costs are remaining on budget, as they strive to meet this challenging timeline.