Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Loch-Shira

On April 26, 2026, the ferry 'Loch Shira', which operates between Largs and Cumbrae Slip, encountered a technical malfunction while docked at Largs port. This incident prompted the need for further investigations, leading to the cancellation of several sailings. The affected departures from Largs included the 12:00 p.m., 12:40 p.m., 1:20 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and the 3:20 p.m. services. Similarly, the sailings departing from Cumbrae were also canceled, specifically the 12:20 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 1:40 p.m., and 2:20 p.m. Fortunately, after addressing the technical concerns, the 'Loch Shira' was able to resume operations with the 4:00 p.m. sailing from Largs, restoring service to the route.

On December 1, 2023, the ferry 'Loch Shira', which operates on the Largs-Cumbrae Slip route, experienced a significant propulsion system malfunction. This technical issue prompted a thorough investigation at the quay in Largs, resulting in the temporary suspension of all ferry services until further notice. Authorities are keen to ensure the vessel's safety before resuming operations. Once the fault has been effectively addressed, ferry services are expected to recommence, with the first departures scheduled for 10:45 a.m. from Largs and 11:00 a.m. from Cumbrae. Passengers are advised to check for updates regarding the resumption of services.

The ferry 'Loch Shira' temporarily suspended its operations on November 11 due to technical issues affecting its Voith unit while serving the Largs-Cumbrae route. To facilitate necessary repairs, the vessel was taken out of service and transported to dry dock in Troon for a Voith unit exchange. During this period, the ferry 'Loch Tarbert' stepped in to maintain the route, leading to extended waiting times for passengers. After completing the essential repairs, 'Loch Shira' successfully underwent trial runs on November 13 and re-entered service on November 14, with plans to resume its regular schedule at 2:00 p.m.

On September 10 at 11:35 a.m., the ferry 'Loch Shira', which operates the Largs-Cumbrae route, came to the aid of the HM Coastguard in a critical rescue operation involving the 10-meter fishing vessel 'Spitfire LH 107' (MMSI: 232003712) that was reported in distress. The situation led to delays in ferry services as multiple rescue teams were mobilized, including both Troon RNLI and Largs RNLI lifeboats, along with Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 199. The scene of the incident was just north of Little Cumbrae Island, where Coastguard teams from Cumbrae, Greenock, and Largs were dispatched to assist. Thanks to the effective response, the helicopter successfully winched two individuals from the sinking trawler and transported them to Largs Yacht Haven for evaluation by ambulance personnel, who confirmed they sustained no injuries. After the successful rescue, the Coastguard released the ferry to continue its normal schedule, with the next departure from Cumbrae at 1:30 p.m. Meanwhile, the ferry 'Glen Sannox' was also present, returning to Troon from Greenock and rendering assistance during the incident. Notably, during the rescue efforts, the RNLI lifeboat 'R.A. Wilson', crewed by four dedicated volunteers, capsized in the Firth of Clyde. The Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat overturned while heading towards the site of the emergency, resulting in the crew being ejected into the water. Fortunately, they quickly managed to recover the lifeboat and reboard it, before being escorted back to the lifeboat station by other crews responding to the emergency situation. All four RNLI volunteers received assessments from paramedics at the station, and fortunately, there were no reported injuries. However, the lifeboat incurred damage, prompting the RNLI to deploy a relief lifeboat to the area for ongoing operations while the original vessel undergoes repairs. In light of this incident, the RNLI, in collaboration with the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), has initiated a thorough investigation. In addition, Peel Ports has issued a notice to mariners (NTM 26/2025) advising vessels to avoid anchoring or fishing in the vicinity until the wreck’s precise location is determined. The cause behind the 'Spitfire's' sinking remains unclear, although there are concerns that a failure of one of its wooden planks may have allowed water ingress. The 'Spitfire', launched in 1974 at Dunbar in East Lothian, was one of the last vessels built at the local boatyard, Weatherhead and Blackie, which closed two years later. After spending five decades in the harbor, it was sold in 2024 and made its final journey, sailing north through the Caledonian Canal towards new owners, while engaged in prawn fishing in the waters north of Little Cumbrae Island.

On April 1, 2023, the ferry 'Loch Shira', operating the Largs - Cumbrae route, experienced a significant technical malfunction with its main engine. This unfortunate incident necessitated the vessel's withdrawal from service while urgent repairs took place at the port of Largs. Following successful repairs and thorough checks, the 'Loch Shira' was able to recommence its sailings, with its next departure scheduled for 3:45 p.m. from Largs. Passengers can once again rely on the ferry for their journeys across the water.

As part of scheduled maintenance, the ferry 'Loch Shira', which operates on the Largs-Cumbrae route, was temporarily replaced by the 'Loch Tarbert' on March 20. This necessary repair work on the 'Loch Shira' has resulted in reduced vehicle capacity, leading to extended wait times for travelers. During the repair period, motorists departing from Largs experienced an approximate 30-minute delay while utilizing the 'Loch Tarbert'. Fortunately, after the completion of maintenance activities, the 'Loch Shira' resumed its regular service, departing from Largs at 4:15 p.m. This welcomed return helped alleviate the congestion that had built up during the repair works.

On January 2, 2025, the ferry 'Loch Shira', which operates the Largs-Cumbrae route, encountered a mechanical issue when a pipe burst in its main engine. This unfortunate incident resulted in the delay of the scheduled departure from Cumbrae Slip at 10:00 a.m., while the 10:15 a.m. sailing from Largs was unfortunately canceled. In response, CalMac proactively reached out to all passengers affected by the situation. However, following prompt repair efforts, services resumed with the 10:45 a.m. departure from Largs, allowing the ferry to return to its regular schedule.