Media statement - MV Hebrides, Lochmaddy
Caledonian MacBrayne can confirm that there was an incident at Lochmaddy on North Uist. The incident occurred at 1105 on Sunday (September 25) as MV Hebrides, travelling from Tarbert on Harris, was approaching Lochmaddy Port.
A technical failure led to the vessel being unable to to reduce speed sufficiently for the routine docking procedures and she struck both pontoons in Lochmaddy harbour and the seabed.
No one was injured and the vessel's hull remains intact. A total of 76 passengers and crew were on board, as well as 13 cars, 1 lorry and 1 motorhome. She is now alongside safely at Lochmaddy. All passengers and vehicles have been disembarked and alternative routes for all those affected are being investigated.
A team of divers is on its way to make underwater investigations of the hull and a full inquiry into what happened has been launched. Travel on the Uig-Tarbert-Lochmaddy route is disrupted and likely to remain so for some time/a minimum of 48 hours. Passengers are advised to check CalMac's website and social media channels for further updates on alternative travel plans or to call 0800 066 5000. Caledonian MacBrayne will contact passengers with reservations for this route directly to organise alternative travel for them.