Customer Update - Gourock - Dunoon service

31 March 2025

We want to share the latest information we have on a delay to MV Argyll Flyer’s expected return to service. The vessel is currently in overhaul and was due to return to service, 1 April 2025. However, a single vessel service will remain in operation on the Gourock-Dunoon route, as MV Argyll Flyer must now undergo additional repairs due to a fault with her exhaust.   

A repair plan is being put in place – however, we expect this to include design and modifications which need to be drawn up, approved and then implemented to her exhaust. This is likely to require the vessel to be off service for some months.  

Gourock – Dunoon services 

The route will be operated as a single vessel service by MV Ali Cat. An amended timetable is in operation.  

Due to crew rest hours, some sailings will not operate – and when this is the case, a replacement bus service will be in place. Full details on amended timetables and replacement bus services can be found via the Gourock - Dunoon timetable page and service status page.   

Stay up to date on the service    

As always, to stay up to date with the latest information on the service status of each route, please continue to check our service status and information page, and if you’ve not already done so – download our CalMac app and sign up for push notifications on your favoured route – or check the X (formerly Twitter) feed - @CalMac_Updates, and sign up for SMS text subscription services.

Further information on vessel repairs and deployment  

We know that operating the route as a single vessel service will be inconvenient for customers. However, the safety of our colleagues, customers and the environment in which we sail must come first.  For those reasons, MV Argyll Flyer must undergo repairs to her exhaust straight away.  

As we are now in our summer timetable period; our full fleet is deployed – which means we have no spare vessels and there are currently no suitable options available to charter.   

We appreciate your understanding while we manage this matter. As we work through the challenges that can be presented through the overhaul period – our focus remains on maintaining core services to the communities we serve.