MV Hebridean Isles to be retired in November as CalMac and CMAL modernise major vessel fleet

The vessel, which is one of the oldest in the CalMac fleet, has served west coast communities with distinction since her maiden voyage in December 1985. Affectionally known as the 'Heb Isles', she has primarily served Islay in recent years. The first of four new major vessels being built in Turkey, MV Isle of Islay, will operate the route when she enters service later this year.  A second vessel, MV Loch Indaal, will serve Islay from early 2025. Works are ongoing to upgrade Kennacraig port on the mainland, and Port Askaig on Islay, in preparation for the new vessels arriving. They will increase vehicle and freight capacity on the route by almost 40%.

Craig Ramsay, CalMac's Fleet Management Director, said: "MV Hebridean Isles' planned disposal marks the latest step in a period of significant change for CalMac, which will see the rapid modernisation of our fleet of major vessels by 2026.

"If the Heb Isles were to be retained, she would require a significant programme of work in overhaul due to her age and general condition and this would keep her out of service for months. In providing an update on her disposal now, we're aiming to provide certainty to our communities and customers ahead of winter.

"Vessels become a part of the fabric of the island communities they serve, and CalMac colleagues and islanders, particularly on Islay, will be sorry to see the Heb Isles exit the fleet after a long period of service. That's why we are keen to mark her departure in some form come November."

Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL, said: "Our plan to bring six new major vessels to the network by the end of 2025 is well underway, and with two of them headed for the Islay route, it's time to retire the Hebridean Isles. She's been one of the most flexible vessels on the network, having served almost every route at some point in her distinguished career."

MV Hebridean Isles certification expires on 21 November, meaning she'll be removed from service by that date. CalMac expect her to exit active service in mid-November, allowing time to travel to a recycling facility before her certification expires.

Given her age and general condition, significant works had already been identified for overhaul were she to enter it. This, plus the requirement for a mandatory five-year survey, means the vessel would have spent a large period in drydock, certainly missing the bulk of the winter timetable.