Glen Sannox Ferry Faces New Engine Problems
CalMac's Glen Sannox ferry has been taken out of service once more due to persistent engine difficulties. The vessel operates on the busy Troon to Arran route and had only recently resumed operations last week after undergoing repairs to its exhaust system.
The ferry operator reported a
"recurring technical issue"with the port engine fuel pump, leading to the suspension of sailings until at least 13:00 on Tuesday.
Operational Challenges Across West Scotland Network
CalMac continues to face significant challenges across its west of Scotland ferry network, with numerous vessels undergoing scheduled maintenance and others experiencing unplanned repairs. The MV Glen Sannox, which was launched 15 months ago, requires new propellers as part of £3.2 million in repair costs, a figure that also includes its sister ship, Glen Rosa.
Plans had been in place to reposition Glen Sannox later this week to reinstate sailings between Barra and Oban.
The chartered catamaran MV Alfred is expected to return from an overhaul and resume service on the Troon to Arran route on Wednesday.
Fleet Shortages and Repositioning Efforts
Last month, CalMac described the situation as an
"unprecedented" shortage of vesselscaused by technical faults. The operator has been compelled to reposition multiple vessels across its island routes, with plans remaining
"under constant review".
Background on Glen Sannox Ferry
The Glen Sannox began serving the Isle of Arran in January 2025, arriving seven years behind schedule and at four times the original budget. The 336-foot (102-meter) vessel accommodates 127 cars and 852 passengers, marking the first major new ferry addition to the CalMac fleet in a decade.
