Glen Sannox Ferry Remains Out of Service
CalMac's ferry Glen Sannox will continue to be sidelined on Tuesday due to persistent engine problems. The vessel had only recently returned to service last week following repairs to its exhaust system.
However, the ferry was taken out of operation again on Monday, impacting the busy Troon to Arran route. In an update posted online, CalMac confirmed that the 13:05 sailing from Troon and the 15:15 sailing from Brodick were cancelled.
To mitigate the disruption, a shuttle bus service will operate between Troon and Ardrossan.
Operational Challenges Across CalMac Network
CalMac's west of Scotland network has been experiencing sustained pressure in recent weeks, with numerous vessels undergoing maintenance and others affected by unplanned repairs. The current issues with Glen Sannox have been attributed to a recurring technical fault involving the vessel's fuel pump on the port main engine.
The chartered catamaran MV Alfred is expected to return from overhaul and resume the Troon to Arran route starting Wednesday. CalMac had initially planned to reposition Glen Sannox for sailings between Barra and Oban.
Ongoing Repairs and Fleet Challenges
Glen Sannox, which was launched 15 months ago, requires new propellers as part of £3.2 million worth of repairs. These repairs also include work on its sister ship, Glen Rosa.
The state-owned operator acknowledged last month that it is facing an "unprecedented" shortage of vessels due to technical faults. This situation has forced CalMac to reposition multiple vessels across its island routes, with plans described as "under constant review."
Background on Glen Sannox
Glen Sannox began serving the Isle of Arran in January 2025, after a delay of seven years and at four times the original budget. The 336ft (102m) vessel has capacity for 127 cars and 852 passengers and was the first major new ferry to join the CalMac fleet in a decade.
