MV Loch Shira

Caledonian MacBrayne are commited to maintaining a modern fleet of passenger ferries and the latest addition to the fleet, a new vessel for our Largs-Cumbrae service is currently under construction. We've answered a few of the obvious questions below and provided a general arrangement drawing to give you a better idea of what the new ship will look like. We'll be updating this section over the next couple of months; if you have any questions regarding the new vessel that you'd like to be be included in the updated Q and A, email us and we'll do our best to give you an answer in the next update.

When is the new ship due to come into service?

She is due to enter service in Spring 2007.

What will she be called?

MV Loch Shira 

Where is the new ship being built?

The new vessel is being constructed and outfitted at the Ferguson Shipbuilder facility in Port Glasgow. Ferguson's have built a number of vessels for Caledonian MacBrayne, including our largest vessel, MV Isle of Lewis and more relevantly, MV Loch Fyne and MV Loch Dunvegan which are similar to the new vessel.

Why is she being built?

The new vessel is being built in line with Caledonian MacBrayne's ongoing commitment to provide up to date vessels for an ever increasing demand for services.

How many passengers and cars can she carry?

The new ship will be able to carry in excess of 24 cars and 250 passengers in greater comfort than the existing vessels on the route.

What speed can she do?

A speed of 10 knots is anticipated.

What are the dimensions of the vessel?

The ship measures 53.9 metres overall, 13.9 metres wide and 3 metres deep. There are two passenger lounges, one at vehicle deck level and one straddling the vehicle deck.

What kind of boarding arrangements will there be?

Boarding arrangements will be similar to the arrangements presently in place on this route, with sectioned off portions on the fore and aft ramps for the safe access and egress of foot passengers.

How does the turn round time compare with the present vessel?

With a slight increase in speed, it is anticipated that even with increased passenger numbers, the turn round time will be the same as at present.

Has the new ship got a lift?

No. Due to the configuration of the layout, this is not practical. Passengers who are not capable of using the stairs to the upper lounge will be accommodated in the lower lounge where there are facilities for the mobilty impaired. Both lounges have extra large windows to allow good viewing for all. DPTAC legislation is being complied with wherever practical.

Will the car deck be lined off to enable drivers to open the doors when the vehicles are parked?

Yes, and with the increased beam of the vessel, a greater clearance will be available during normal loading patterns.

How similar to the existing ships will the new vessel be?

The new ship will be similar to MV Loch Alainn but larger. The other main difference will be the addition of an upper passenger lounge.

Will there be any change to the shore facilities to accommodate the new vessel?

Although not strictly necessary for the new vessel, the Largs pier will be completely re-constructed. The new construction will take account of the larger vessel and the ability for it to be berthed overnight on the inside of the sheltered horizontal leg.

Will passengers to allowed to remain in their cars on passage?

Yes.

Has provision been made for the carriage of cycles and motor cycles?

Yes.

Are there designated dog areas?

Not specifically at this stage. It is anticipated that dogs will be allowed in the lower passenger lounge (under owner superivision) and in all open passenger areas.

 Latest images of the vessel