MV Glen Sannox completes successful maiden voyage
13 January 2025
CalMac’s new ferry, MV Glen Sannox, has successfully completed her maiden voyage to the island of Arran yesterday (Sunday).
Her low key debut to commercial service delighted the very first complement of 38 passengers and 15 cars as they filed onboard at Troon.
The return from Brodick carried 154 foot passengers, 53 cars and two commercial vehicles.
Glen Sannox also has a role as a potential relief ship in the CalMac fleet and may be deployed elsewhere in the network if required.
Recently, she tested out a number of Western Isles harbours for size.
Glen Sannox is due to commence formal service today (Monday) and may well be the only ship sailing the route chartered catamaran, MV Alfred, which operates on the same crossing, calling off her schedule due to bad weather.
Strong winds are forecast, touching gale force eight levels at times in the Firth of Clyde, with other ferries issuing weather disruption alerts.
The Sannox’s early morning departure is on yellow alert and may be disrupted. Her other sailings for the rest of the day are set to run as scheduled.
CalMac chief executive, Duncan Mackison, said: “Operating a test run with MV Glen Sannox gave the crew a fantastic opportunity to stress test the vessel and ensure the experience people have aboard is optimal before she formally enters service.”
“A massive effort has gone into getting MV Glen Sannox to this stage, and everyone at CalMac is excited to have her in the fleet and serving Arran.”
He added: “We are excited to welcome people on board and look forward to seeing a vessel which will bring great benefit to Arran enter service for the local community.”
CalMac confirmed that two outstanding issues it had identified regarding the starboard mezz deck and the sewage system, have been resolved ahead of the vessel formally entering service.