Port enabling works at Port Askaig
New Islay Vessel Port Enabling Works
Port Askaig Closure, 19 June - 30 July 2024
Port Askaig ferry terminal will be temporarily closed for the period 19 June - 30 July while CMAL undertake infrastructure works. This work is taking place to prepare the port for the arrival of two new vessels in the future - during this time, Port Askaig will be closed for 6 weeks, and amended timetables for the Kennacraig - Port Ellen - Port Askaig (Islay) and Oban-Colonsay-Port Askaig services will be in place.
We've published details below on how customers will be supported during this time.
Customer bookings
If you have a booking for travel to Islay / Colonsay 19 June - 30 July that's likely to be affected, our team will be in contact you to provide details of your alternative sailing time. If you would like to make a booking for travel to Islay / Colonsay 19 June - 30 July, please be aware that our system is currently being updated while we move current customer bookings to amended sailing times. While this work takes place, it may seem that some sailings are unavailable. Please do check back, as this may be temporary while updates take place.
Arriving at Port Ellen
If you're travelling in a vehicle on a sailing from Port Ellen, we kindly ask that you do not arrive too early for your service. This will help us to ensure that traffic flows well at Port Ellen, and to reduce the risk of congestion during the Port Askaig closure period. Check-in closes promptly 30 minutes prior to departure and, as a guide, we recommend arriving at Port Ellen no earlier than 60 minutes prior to check-in closure (90 minutes prior to sailing departure).
Next phases of work
This project is part of a series of major infrastructure works by CMAL to prepare Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Colonsay ports for new vessels. Work is also underway at Colonsay, and is scheduled to continue through to October, however no closure period will be required at Colonsay since works will be able to operate around Caledonian MacBrayne's service. Thank you to the communities and customers for your patience while we deliver our services during these construction works.
Check out our FAQ's below for important information and advice during the Port Askaig closure period