The Lochnevis: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On May 6, the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates on the scenic Mallaig-Small Isles route, encountered a navigational system malfunction, leading to the suspension of its services. In response to this disruption, the passenger-only vessel m/v 'Larven' was temporarily deployed to ensure continuity for travelers. Passengers were advised to check in at the Mallaig port office prior to their journey. The 'Larven' adhered to a modified timetable to accommodate those affected by the technical difficulties. For further details on the revised schedule, please visit: https://calm.ac/19.

On April 22, 2023, the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates between Mallaig and the Small Isles, encountered a technical problem with its ramp that prompted an urgent investigation. This issue led to potential disruptions or even cancellations of the service at short notice, causing the 'Lochnevis' to run approximately 50 minutes late in the afternoon, with an estimated time of arrival (ETA) in Rum set for 4:55 p.m. Despite the delays, passengers were advised to check in as usual. The following day, April 23, repairs were successfully completed, but further testing was necessary. The 'Lochnevis' finally resumed its service with the 10:30 a.m. departure from Mallaig, ensuring that passengers could continue their journey.

On January 15, 2023, the ferry 'Lochnevis' encountered a technical malfunction while operating on the Mallaig to Armadale route, leading to repair requirements. This unforeseen issue forced the cancellation of the planned sailings from Mallaig at 4:10 p.m. and then from Armadale at 4:55 p.m. Although progress was made in fixating the problem, the disruptions continued, resulting in further cancellations of the morning departures on January 16, specifically the 08:40 a.m. from Mallaig and the 09:25 a.m. from Armadale. Fortunately, the afternoon departures were able to proceed as per the schedule. By January 18, repairs to the 'Lochnevis' were successfully completed, ensuring that starting January 19, the service could resume without any further interruptions or cancellations.

On January 3, 2026, the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates the crucial Mallaig-Armadale route, encountered a significant technical malfunction affecting its praxis system. This issue compromised essential safety equipment, leading to its immediate withdrawal from service. To maintain service continuity, the ferry 'Larven' (MMSI: 232015222) was deployed on January 5 to cover the regular schedule for foot passengers. Additionally, to ensure vehicle transportation was still available, the cargo vessel 'Miss Marley' (MMSI: 232062159) was chartered. It followed a modified timetable, with the ferry leaving Mallaig at 10:15 a.m., reaching Eigg by 12:00 p.m., then departing Eigg at 12:15 p.m. and arriving at Rum by 1:30 p.m. The ferry returned to Mallaig at 3:30 p.m. Due to the ongoing technical difficulties with 'Lochnevis', several sailings had to be cancelled, including departures from Mallaig at 08:15 a.m. and from Armadale at 09:00 a.m., which will remain suspended until January 6.

The ferry 'Loch Nevis', which operates between Mallaig and Armadale, is currently limited to single-ended service, resulting in altered boarding procedures. Passengers with vehicles are advised that they must reverse their vehicles onto the car deck, as the vessel cannot take on caravans or trailers at this time. Additionally, motorhomes exceeding six meters in length are also unable to be accommodated. Travelers planning to use this route should take these restrictions into account.

Passengers traveling on the Mallaig-Armadale ferry route faced disruptions on November 12 due to a technical malfunction affecting the vessel 'Lochnevis'. The operational issues necessitated thorough investigations, forcing the cancellation of two key sailings - the 4 p.m. departure from Mallaig and the 4:45 p.m. return from Armadale. Travelers are advised to check for updates regarding future sailings as the situation develops.

On October 27, the ferry 'Loch Bhrusda' efficiently facilitated services to the Small Isles as the 'Lochnevis' gradually resumed operations post-repairs, which were finalized on October 26. The operational schedule for the 'Loch Bhrusda' includes a series of timely departures and arrivals: departing Mallaig at 10:00 a.m. and reaching Canna by 12:05 p.m., followed by a quick turnaround for departure from Canna at 12:20 p.m. and arrival in Rum at 1:25 p.m. The ferry then departs Rum at 1:40 p.m., concluding the day by returning to Mallaig at 3:05 p.m. Meanwhile, the 'Loch Bhrusda' operates concurrently with the 'Lochnevis' on another timetable: leaving Mallaig at 10:15 a.m., arriving on Eigg at 11:50 a.m., departing Eigg at 12:20 p.m., reaching Muck by 1:00 p.m., and finishing the rounds by returning to Mallaig at 3:20 p.m. Additionally, a passenger charter service has been sourced, running a separate schedule from Mallaig at 08:40 a.m., Armadale at 09:10 a.m., Mallaig at 5:00 p.m., and finally Armadale at 5:30 p.m. These operations help ensure seamless connectivity for both residents and visitors to the picturesque Small Isles.

The maritime community is currently witnessing an extended shift in ferry operations due to ongoing technical difficulties with the 'Lochnevis' Schottel unit. To compensate for the disruptions, the 'Loch Bhrusda' has been diligently ferrying passengers and vehicles on the Mallaig to Armadale route. For the dates of October 21 and 23, travelers can expect the following schedule: Departing from Mallaig at 07:45 a.m., arriving in Armadale at 08:30 a.m., followed by a return trip from Armadale at 08:45 a.m., reaching Mallaig by 09:30 a.m. Additionally, on October 22 and 24, there will be departures from Mallaig at 08:10 a.m. and 04:05 p.m., with corresponding arrivals and departures at Armadale. The full schedule ensures that vehicle capacity is maximized during this period of disruption. Support from the passenger charter m/v 'Larven' has also been secured for the same timeframe. It will operate from Mallaig each day at 4:00 p.m. and return from Armadale at 4:30 p.m., allowing additional service for foot passengers. CalMac has updated its booking system to reflect these changes, and passengers interested in reserving a spot on the 'Larven' can do so online or by contacting the Customer Engagement Centre at 0800 066 5000. Notably, travelers are advised to check in with the port for boarding instructions and are encouraged to book in advance due to limited capacity on the ferry. However, it is important to note that the 'Larven' is not equipped for passengers with wheelchairs or mobility issues. As of now, the 'Lochnevis' remains docked in Mallaig while the service adjustments continue. An updated sailing schedule for these routes through October 26 has been published on October 23 and can be accessed online at [CalMac Service Status](https://www.calmac.co.uk/en-gb/service-status/#/service-status/051?route=19).

On October 15, the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates on the popular Mallaig-Small Isles route, encountered a technical issue with its Schottel unit. This malfunction has led to potential disruptions and cancellations of ferry sailings. As a result, the ferry was officially taken out of service on October 16 to facilitate repairs. In light of this situation, the 'Loch Bhrusda' stepped in to provide necessary ferry services to the Small Isles. Passengers were notified of several canceled sailings, including departures from Mallaig at 09:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m., and from Armadale at 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. The 'Loch Bhrusda' has been operating on a revised timetable: - Departure from Mallaig at 10:30 a.m. - Arrival at Eigg by 12:05 p.m. - Departure from Eigg at 12:25 p.m., arriving at Muck by 1:05 p.m. - Departure from Muck at 1:25 p.m., returning to Eigg by 2:05 p.m. - Departure from Eigg at 2:25 p.m., arriving back at Mallaig by 4:00 p.m. To accommodate passengers further, a charter service was arranged to operate on October 29, with the following schedule: - Departure from Mallaig at 08:45 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. - Arrival at Armadale at 09:05 a.m., 12:20 p.m., 2:20 p.m., and 4:20 p.m. - Departure from Armadale at 09:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. - Arrival back at Mallaig at 09:35 a.m., 12:50 p.m., 2:50 p.m., and 4:50 p.m. CalMac is currently exploring alternative vessel options to ensure continued service, with updates expected on October 20 for services starting October 21. Additionally, the necessary parts for the repair of the 'Lochnevis' have been ordered, and further progress updates are anticipated by October 22.

On October 5, 2023, due to ongoing technical difficulties with the 'Lochnevis' ferry, which operates the Mallaig-Small Isles route, authorities have taken measures to ensure continued service. The 'Loch Bhrusda' has been temporarily reassigned to operate an adjusted timetable to accommodate travelers. The new schedule is as follows: Departure from Mallaig at 10:30 a.m., arriving in Rum at 12:20 p.m. Following this, it will depart Rum at 12:30 p.m. and reach Muck by 2:05 p.m. Leaving Muck at 2:15 p.m., the vessel is expected to arrive in Eigg at 2:55 p.m., departing Eigg at 3:05 p.m. to return to Mallaig by 4:40 p.m. The 'Lochnevis' has been sidelined from service due to issues related to its Schottel unit.

In a recent update from Caledonian MacBrayne, the 'Loch Bhrusda' has been assigned to temporarily replace the 'Lochnevis' on the Mallaig to Armadale route due to ongoing technical difficulties. This redeployment will take place from October 5 to October 7, 2023, to help manage the impact of previous weather-related cancellations and to alleviate the backlog of traffic experienced in recent days. As a result of this change, affected passengers are informed that certain sailings will be cancelled. More information regarding the service status can be found at http://calmac.co.uk/service-status.

On October 1, the ferry 'Lochnevis' was once again taken out of service, prompting the arrangement of contractor resources to address the situation. An update regarding the service disruption was expected around 1 p.m. In the interim, three vessels have been activated to ensure continued connectivity. The vehicle charter m/v 'Spanish John II' (MMSI: 235010076) has been scheduled as follows: departing Mallaig at 8:00 a.m., arriving at Rum by 10:15 a.m., then departing Rum at 10:30 a.m. and reaching Canna at 12:00 p.m. Following a brief stop, 'Spanish John II' will leave Canna at 12:15 p.m., get back to Rum by 1:45 p.m., and conclude its day with a 2:00 p.m. departure from Rum to arrive back at Mallaig by 4:15 p.m. Additionally, the passenger charter m/v 'Larven' (MMSI 232015222), operated by Western Isles Cruises, has a timetable that includes departing Mallaig at 9:55 a.m. and reaching Rum at 10:55 a.m. It then departs Rum at 11:05 a.m. to return to Mallaig by 12:05 p.m. The m/v 'Big Dipper' (MMSI: 232052190), also from Western Isles Cruises, follows a similar schedule, leaving Mallaig at 9:55 a.m., arriving at Canna at 10:55 a.m., and then departing Canna at 11:05 a.m. to arrive back in Mallaig at 12:05 p.m. As the community awaits further information on the status of 'Lochnevis', these substitute vessels are ensuring that transport remains available across the Isles.

On August 17, the ferry 'Lochnevis' experienced a propulsion unit malfunction while operating on the Mallaig-Small Isles route, demanding urgent repairs at a dry dock facility in Greenock. In response to this disruption, a revised service schedule was implemented between August 22 and August 28, using the replacement ferry 'Loch Bhrusda' to maintain transportation to and from the Small Isles. The updated timetable for booked traffic was as follows: Departure from Mallaig at 10:45 a.m., arriving at Rum by 12:35 p.m., with a departure from Rum at 12:50 p.m. and reaching Eigg by 2:05 p.m. After departing Eigg at 2:25 p.m., the ferry returned to Rum by 3:40 p.m. before setting off for Mallaig at 3:55 p.m., arriving at 5:45 p.m. Passengers interested in making new vehicle and passenger bookings were directed to contact the Mallaig port office at 01687 310240 (option 2) until August 28. However, it was important to note that space was limited and day trips were not being accommodated during this period.

A technical challenge involving the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates the Mallaig to Small Isles route and is currently undergoing repairs in Greenock, necessitated some schedule adjustments on August 20. To accommodate this situation, the ferry 'Loch Bhrusda' along with the charter vessel 'Miss Marley' took charge of the booked traffic. In addition, the charter vessel 'Larven' was utilized for a passenger-only service to ensure connectivity to the Small Isles. These changes also required modifications to the timetable of the Skye route to avoid berthing conflicts in Mallaig. Consequently, the afternoon sailings of the 'Loch Fyne' were affected with the following updated schedule: Departure from Armadale at 2:00 p.m. (previously 2:15 p.m.), Arrival at Mallaig at 2:45 p.m. (previously 3:00 p.m.), Departure from Mallaig at 3:00 p.m. (previously 3:15 p.m.), Arrival at Armadale at 3:45 p.m. (previously 4:00 p.m.), Departure from Armadale at 4:00 p.m. (previously 4:15 p.m.), and Arrival at Mallaig at 4:45 p.m. (previously 5:00 p.m.).

On August 17, the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates on the Mallaig-Small Isles route, was taken out of service to undergo essential repairs, leading to the cancellation of all scheduled sailings. The operator, CalMac, is actively seeking a charter vessel to assist with operations during this downtime. The 'Lochnevis' was moved from Gourock and began its repair process at the Garvel Drydock of Dales Marine Services in Greenock on August 18.

CalMac has issued a warning regarding potential disruptions or cancellations of sailings on the Mallaig-Small Isles route on August 1, following crucial maintenance work on the vessel 'Lochnevis.' Passengers should prepare for possible changes to their travel plans after the maintenance scheduled for the evening of July 31. It's advisable to stay updated with CalMac for the latest information and real-time updates regarding the sailings.

On the evening of July 10, essential maintenance was required for the 'Lochnevis', the ferry navigating the Mallaig-Small Isles route. This prompted CalMac, the operating company, to inform passengers that the morning services on July 11 could face disruptions or cancellations at short notice. In response to potential service interruptions, a passenger and vehicle charter was arranged as a backup option. Fortunately, by the morning of July 11, repairs had been successfully completed, ensuring that the ferry could resume its normal operations without further delay.

On February 19, the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates the Mallaig-Small Isles route, encountered a malfunction with its bow thruster. This technical difficulty, compounded by challenging weather conditions, necessitated a revised schedule. The ferry departed from Mallaig at 10:15 a.m., reached Eigg at 11:35 a.m., left Eigg at 11:45 a.m., and successfully returned to Mallaig by 1:05 p.m.

On the morning of February 3, the ferry 'Lochnevis', which operates on the Mallaig-Armadale route, encountered a technical issue that necessitated further examination. This unforeseen complication resulted in the vessel's scheduled arrival in Armadale at 09:10 a.m. being postponed by approximately 20 minutes. Consequently, this delay is expected to impact the subsequent 09:25 a.m. departure from Armadale to Mallaig, creating a ripple effect on the day's ferry schedule.