BUTE
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Bute remains longer in shipyard
It had been hoped that the 'Bute', which was withdrawn from service on Nov 20 might be back in operation by Dec 6. The busy mainland to Isle of Bute service will have to run as single rather than a dual ferry service, and customers are continuing to be advised to travel on foot if possible, as vehicle space is very limited. The state-controlled ferry operator has advised passengers to avoid using cars on the service and suggested a 28 mile detour to use another route. CalMac is now working on a new timeline for its return as repairs continue on the vessel, which can carry 450 passengers and 60 cars. It had only just returned to action in the week before the breakdown after an annual overhaul was delayed. CalMac stated:"MV Bute remains withdrawn from service, due to a technical fault with the aft main engine crankshaft. Replacement components are in the process of being sourced and a timeline for repairs is being developed. A return to service date will be confirmed in due course."
Ferry out of service again
On Nov 23, the 'Bute', servicing the route Wemyss Bay-Rothesay, suffered an engine problem, and consequently the service had to be cancelled for at least 10 days. The 'Bute' has been taken off service for further investigation into the cause of the engine fault. She berthed at the Garvel Clyde Shipyard in Greenock. The route has been cut to a single rather than a dual ferry service following the problems with the 'Bute', which started over the weekend. CalMac has announced that the ferry 'Coruisk', which can carry 250 passengers and 40 cars, has been brought in as a relief vessel, but warned that space will be limited. The operator advised passengers to avoid using cars on the service and recommended that passengers use another service, which would see a significant detour. If travel with a vehicle is necessary, customers were asked to consider travelling via the Colintraive-Rhubodach service.
Ferry sidelined due to technical trouble
On Nov 19, 2021, the 'Bute', while serveing the route WemyssBay-Rothesay, Isle of Bute, suffered a technical issue with the aft main engine. As a consequence several scheduled sailings of the ferry had to be cancelled that day.
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