Read Authentic Ratings for the Earl-Sigurd

On May 13, 2014, at approximately 2:30 p.m., the ferry 'Earl Sigurd' ran aground off the pier of North Ronaldsay in the Orkney Islands, following an unforeseen low tide. The vessel's keel made contact with the seabed, leading to a standstill that lasted for two and a half hours. Thanks to the subsequent tidal rise, 'Earl Sigurd' was successfully refloated around 5 p.m. and remained docked for an additional hour as a safety measure. On May 14, divers conducted an inspection of the ferry and reported that only superficial damage was discovered. In order to ensure navigational safety, a survey of the seabed leading to the North Ronaldsay pier was conducted, confirming the absence of any submerged obstacles that contributed to the grounding.

Orkney Ferries is optimistic about restoring normal operations of the 'Earl Sigurd' following a series of bow visor challenges. The 'Earl Thorfinn' has also been facing difficulties, as its bow visor has been non-operational, forcing vehicles to board and disembark in reverse. These issues first emerged several months ago, necessitating a rigorous investigation, redesign, and repairs to mitigate future problems. Significant upgrades were made during the ship's refit in early 2014, including the installation of enhanced hydraulic rams on both vessels. Additionally, modifications to the hydraulic control system have been ordered, with installation expected within a fortnight. One of the factors prolonging this process has been the need for complete approval and certification of the new components by the regulatory authorities. The final endorsement for the upgraded systems is anticipated in the coming week, after which regular double-ended ferry operations will resume.

In a dramatic turn of events on the morning of June 14, 2013, the ferry 'Earl Sigurd' came to the aid of three fishermen aboard the f/v 'Lady K' after their vessel struck rocks off the coast of Eday, an island in the Orkney archipelago. The incident unfolded when the local crew, composed of three fishermen, notified the Coastguard at 8:25 AM and promptly took refuge in their liferaft, abandoning the 8.5-meter Cygnus Cyclone boat. Responding swiftly, a new Sumburgh-based Coastguard rescue helicopter was deployed and arrived on the scene at 9:10 AM, simultaneously with the 'Earl Sigurd', which quickly took the stranded fishermen on board. The helicopter crew ensured the men were dry and safe, while the ferry transported them back to Westray, their home. Meanwhile, the 'Lady K', now adrift and floating stern down in Eday Sound after being dislodged from the rocks, was later towed submerged to the dock at Eday. For more details, visit the full report with photos at Shetland News.