Industry news
Ferry delayed due to wind damage
Posted Wed, 15 Feb 2012
A ferry hit the wall of a Scottish harbour in strong winds, causing delays to services. The service, from Brodick to Ardrossan, was caught in the wind as it came into the harbour, according to Clyde Coastguard.
Caledonian MacBrayne, which operates the vessel, said the ferry was forced to wait for an hour before reversing into the harbour once the wind had dropped. The 277 passengers on board disembarked the ferry uninjured once the boat had berthed, the coastguard said.
When the incident happened, there were gusts measuring 40 knots in the area. While an assessment was carried out on damage to the ferry, some Ardrossan to Brodick services were cancelled.
CalMac's website said sailings on the ferry are subject to the relief boat arriving, and that there may ve cancellations or delays at short notice.
A spokesman CalMac said: "As the MV Caledonian Isles was entering Ardrossan Harbour yesterday evening, the weather deteriorated suddenly and a 55mph (force 9) gust of wind blew her onto the Winton pier.
"She was tied up while the Master waited for the wind to drop to allow her to berth, which she did about an hour later, and passengers and vehicles were able to disembark. No-one was injured."
Copyright Press Association 2012