Ferry operator, Caledonian MacBrayne, has confirmed today, (Wednesday 5 April), that there have been several suspected incidents of the Norovirus infection (winter vomiting virus) amongst crew members onboard MV Caledonian Isles, the ship operating on its Ardrossan-Brodick route.

The Company has made every effort to ensure that crew members showing symptoms have not had any contact with customers. As a precaution, and to allow effective deep cleaning of the vessel by external specialist cleaners, CalMac has taken the decision to withdraw the vessel from service for approximately 48 hrs. The Company is also liaising with relevant bodies to ensure appropriate control measures are in place.

MV Isle of Arran will provide a reduced capacity, relief service on the route from 0700 on Thursday 6th April 2006.

Operations Director, Phil Preston, said: "We believe there have been cases of this viral infection on-shore and we have routine procedures in place to prevent infection spreading on board our vessels. Occasionally, outbreaks occur and we must act quickly and effectively to deal with the situation. It is regrettable when this leads to some service disruption and loss of capacity but it is vitally important that we act quickly so that the ship can be returned to service as soon as possible."

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For further information on the contents of this News Release, please contact Hugh Dan MacLennan, Head of Communication and Customer Care, Caledonian MacBrayne. Tel: 0776 435 4021; e-mail