One of Scotland’s shortest ferry crossings, which links the isle of Kerrera in Oban Bay to the mainland town, is to be operated by CalMac.
The Transport Scotland contract to provide the mostly passenger-only service has been integrated into the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services contract awarded to CalMac in 2016.
The new service comes into operation on July 1. It will be largely unchanged from the existing operation with fares and timetables set by Transport Scotland.
The current operation has been in existence for 22 years by Kerrera Ferry Ltd, run by local man Duncan McEachen, who, along with three crewmates, will now become CalMac employees.
A new vessel has been ordered by Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) and is currently under construction in Shetland.
She is due to be delivered later this summer, so, in the meantime, the “Gylen Lady” will continue to ply the 0.3mile crossing.
At the request of the 50 local residents, vehicles can only be carried by prior arrangement.
CMAL spent £1.7million improving the ferry berthing facilities at Kerrera. The slipways were extended and a new breakwater built to improve the resilience of the service in poor weather and remove the previous restrictions on freight and deliveries caused by low tides.
Minister for Transport and the Islands, Humza Yousaf, said: “I was delighted to visit the residents of Kerrera last year and bringing the ferry route under the umbrella of CalMac is the next step in securing the future of the service, which will be welcomed by island residents and staff.
“With a new vessel due to be delivered later this summer, we remain committed to ensuring this important link remains resilient and reliable.”
Chairman of the Isle of Kerrera Development Trust, Martin Shields, added: “The transfer of the ferry marks an important milestone in the ongoing development of Kerrera and helps to secure the lifeline service for generations to come.
“We look forward to working with both CalMac and Transport Scotland to ensure the community can continue to thrive. We are also extremely pleased that a new and improved vessel will service the route.”