National Trust for Scotland ranger available to chat to visitors on Arran ferry in October
A National Trust for Scotland ranger will be available to chat to ferry users on the Ardrossan to Brodick route during October.
On each Friday and Saturday throughout the month, Natalie Mitchell will be on board MV Caledonian Isles on the ferry's upper deck (weather permitting) or at the Visit Arran stance inside, offering information on what to see and where to go at the island's NTS properties.
Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park offer a wealth of history, botanic interest, walking opportunities and more - and, for the more energetic, there's the chance to take a walk up Arran's highest peak, Goatfell.
Natalie will be able to tell passengers what to look out for, point out wildlife and share tips about her favourite items or locations.
"We are delighted Natalie has volunteered to chat with our passengers," said Onboard Development Manager Anne Mitchell. "The NTS properties on Arran offer spectacular opportunities for an amazing day out - regardless of whether you are a visitor to the island or a resident - and Natalie can give some great insider info to help people enjoy it all the more.
"There are great views of Brodick Castle, the grounds and Goatfell from our ferry and Natalie's tips can only help make the experience better for our passengers. We are also glad to offer opportunities like this for tourism and heritage organisations throughout our network, enhancing public understanding and ultimately helping to promote the various islands and mainland destinations we serve."
"The ferry offers visitors and islanders a unique perspective," said Natalie. "From the sea, I am able to point out all sorts of areas of interest which you cannot pick out in quite the same way on land. It gives a great panoramic point of view.
"Lots of people have found this really interesting - even if they don't go on to pay us a visit, it has given them a better understanding of some of Arran's most impressive locations.
"I absolutely love my job and really enjoy sharing some of my own personal favourites - so I'm looking forward to my time with CalMac on the ferry during October."
Caledonian MacBrayne's special Go Days Out package offers include combined ferry and access to Brodick Castle, as well as other attractions on the island - including the Arran Heritage Museum, and there is the opportunity to add in a bus rover ticket for the island, too, including the open top service. Check out CalMac Days Out for information on how to book your day out. Offers available until October 25 2015.
ENDS
Picture shows:
Natalie on board MV Caledonian Isles with the backdrop of Brodick Castle and Goatfell
Notes to editors:
1) Further information about CalMac is available at www.calmac.co.uk
2) Caledonian MacBrayne and CalMac are trading names of CalMac Ferries Ltd (CFL). Caledonian MacBrayne , CalMac and the lion rampant device are registered trademarks of Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL)and are used under licence by CalMac Ferries Ltd.
3) Further information about the National Trust for Scotland is available at www.nts.org.uk
4) This post is supported by Scottish Natural Heritage
5) Details of NTS events and activities during October can be found on facebook at www.facebook.com/ArranRangerService