The final details of additional ferry sailings to operate on routes to Skye and between North Uist and Harris have been announced with just shy of 200 additional services to benefit locals and visitors alike.
The enhanced offering will result in an additional 153 services operating between Mallaig and Armadale from March 2 to March 26 on a trial basis that will span the next three years, in a bid to assist the needs of locals and allow for an extension of the tourist season.
Ferry operator Cal Mac will also operate 43 more sailings between Berneray and Leverburgh between June and August to support vessels which are already at capacity in peak summertime.
The sailings between North Uist and Harris are being added to the ferry timetable on a permanent basis and are hoped to provide more economic and social benefits for local people and businesses.
Islands Minister Paul Wheelhouse expressed his delight as he unveiled the additional services.
He said: “I am very pleased to announce these additional services for two key routes on the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network.
“They will help support communities on Skye, Harris and North Uist by giving local people, visitors and businesses more options on when and how to use these ferry links.
“This announcement underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring our islands thrive and are supported by good transport links.”