Gourock Rothesay journey time extended

After eight weeks of monitoring CalMac is extending the published journey time on the diverted Rothesay Gourock route by five minutes.

The crossing will now officially take 65 minutes rather than an hour. The decision will have no impact on the wider timetable or published departure times with the exception of last sailing of the day Monday to Friday which will now depart Gourock at 2015 rather than 2010.

"Several external factors that we couldn't take account of when setting the timetable have worked against us. Speed restrictions on this part of the river, heavier that anticipated river traffic and prevailing weather combined have resulted in both the MV Bute and MV Argyle struggling to meet our expected journey time of an hour. By increasing this by five minutes passengers will now have greater certainty on their arrival time," said CalMac's Director of Operations, Drew Collier.

The published time will be operational from January 2 has will now be reflected at www.calmac.co.uk and all other publicity.

Passengers are reminded that due to the very short turnaround during this temporary diversion they should check in 30 minutes prior to sailing if in a vehicle and 10 minutes before departure for foot passengers.