Due to a critical safety concern regarding the linkspan at Lochboisdale port, the harbour authority Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd have informed CalMac that they must carry out essential repairs from 24 September - 8 October.

As a result, no sailings can operate to and from Lochboisdale whilst the work is ongoing.

As an alternative during this period, CalMac has arranged for two daily return sailings between Uig and Tarbert, and three daily return sailings between Uig and Lochmaddy. The temporary timetables are on the CalMac website here.

"We have considered putting in place additional sailings on Sound of Barra and Harris – however, this is not possible due to crew availability, tidal restrictions, and daylight operating hours," a CalMac spokesperson said. 

"Unfortunately, we are also unable to use the vessel’s side-hoist system to maintain a vehicle service to Lochboisdale due to the associated safety implications."

Robert Morrison, Operations Director for CalMac, said: “CMAL have informed us that they must carry out essential repairs to the linkspan at Lochboisdale.

"Unfortunately, we will not be able to operate sailings to and from this port while the work is ongoing.

“These alternative timetables should help customers to complete their planned journeys and we will be contacting booked passengers who will be affected by this period of disruption.

"We would also like to reassure customers that there are no concerns over capacity or short shipping, and that we will be able to accommodate all displaced traffic.”

For further details about the planned linkspan work, please contact CMAL here.