A new ferry destined to serve Islay and Jura has set sail from a Turkish shipyard, beginning its journey to Scotland.
A CalMac crew boarded the MV Isle of Islay at the Cemre shipyard following its official handover to owners CMAL last week, marking the start of the vessel’s maiden voyage.
The repositioning journey is expected to take around two weeks, subject to weather conditions, with the ferry due to call at two or three European ports along the way.
After arriving in Scottish waters, the vessel will undergo a series of tests in various ports and harbours, as well as local operational trials, before entering service.
Cabinet secretary for transport, Fiona Hyslop, said: “I am pleased that the MV Isle of Islay will soon be in Scottish waters, bringing us another step closer to the vessel entering service.
The vessel is one of 4 being built for Calmac.
