Second Islay Ferry Launched at Turkish Shipyard for CalMac ahead of Delivery to Scotland

10th June 2024

Newbuild MV Loch Indaal has been launched at the Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard in Yalova, Turkey. Alongside its twin, MV Isle of Islay, launched in March, the new ferry will service Islay and Jura. The pair form part of four ferries being built at the shipyard. Credit: CMALassets-Linkedin

A newbuild ferry, which is due to enter service for Scottish west coast islands operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), has been successfully launched in Turkey.

The MV Loch Indaal, which is to serve Islay and Jura, was launched at the Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard in Yalova. The new ferry, scheduled to enter service in February 2025, has been described as “another important milestone” in the Scottish Government’s commitment to delivering six new major vessels into service by 2026.

This vessel is the second of four ferries being built at the Turkish yard and will serve the two islands off the Mull of Kintyre in addition to the twin vessel, MV Isle of Islay, as Afloat reported of its launch in March.

The 450 passenger/100 car capacity (or 14 freight vehicles) of MV Loch Indaal will significantly boost capacity by 40% on the Islay routes, strengthening the overall fleet's resilience.

Following the launch, the twin-funnel newbuild will undergo further outfitting and preparations in the water before conducting comprehensive sea trials. Once they are completed, the ferry will be handed over to its owners, Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd. (CMAL).

About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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