CalMac's summer cruising programme gets under way in style this weekend with a Midsummer's Night Ceilidh Dinner Cruise from Oban to Colonsay and back on Friday evening.

Demand for the dinner cruise on MV Isle of Mull has been brisk with tickets being sold at the normal fare for the dinner and cruise (£25) or £11.70 for the non-landing cruise without dinner.

CalMac have added on-board entertainment to this year’s series of non-landing cruises, landing cruises, dinner cruises and High Tea Cruises. Ian Fox, CalMac Route Manager based in Oban said: “We are launching the ten-week additional summer sailings programme from Oban this Friday with the Ceilidh Dinner Cruise. Given that this is Midsummer’s Day, this is the perfect way for everyone to start their weekend. The added attraction of the Caledonian MacBrayne-sponsored shinty tournament for young players at Mossfield Park in Oban on Saturday means that there is plenty for people to do around the town all weekend.”

Given that there has been some difficult weather on the west coast this week, CalMac are pleased to report that prospects of a fair sailing on Friday evening are much better. The day is expected to start breezy but bright, with the winds decreasing as the day goes on. By the time of departure (1800), the winds should be light and from the south, heralding a spell of fair weather.

The dinner cruise ticket at £25.00 provides a 3-course meal served in the forward lounge on MV Isle of Mull, and music in the bar afterwards. Tickets are being offered from Oban and Craignure (at the same price). Tables must be booked in advance in the Oban ticket office. There is a limit of 60 on the number of dinners available for the cruise, and passengers are advised to book early to avoid disappointment. The normal non-landing cruise tickets will be available as any other Friday night although not from Craignure.