Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has confirmed that an extra sailing has been organised from Lochmaddy to Uig on the evening of Friday, March 30, to help ease capacity problems caused by the unfortunate and unavoidable delay in the return of MV Hebrides from her annual overhaul in dry-dock.

The situation has led to the cancellation of the 1840 sailing from Castlebay to Oban on Friday. CalMac is providing an additional sailing of MV Clansman from Lochmaddy to Uig (one way only), departing Lochmaddy at 2000 and she is due to arrive at Uig in Skye at 2140. To enable customers from Barra to make this connection to the mainland, a connecting sailing will leave Ard Mhor on Barra at 1730.

Customers who were due to travel on the Castlebay to Oban sailing, wishing to re-book on the extra sailing, should contact local CalMac offices.

Customers are also reminded that the 0700 scheduled sailing from Castlebay to Oban via Lochboisdale, arriving in Oban at 1420, is still taking place.

It is anticipated that MV Hebrides will be released from dock and will have completed sea trials in time to enable her to resume her normal schedule on Sunday, sailing from Lochmaddy at lunchtime.

CalMac regrets any inconvenience caused by the unavoidable delay to the completion of MV Hebrides' overhaul. The Company appreciates the consideration shown by customers and assures everyone that all possible avenues have been explored to minimise the disruption as much as possible. Normal service will be resumed as soon as possible