CalMac says its ferry network has now returned to normal service levels following the return of two major vessels from extended repairs.

The update was confirmed by the ferry operator on 15 May after MV Hebrides returned to service earlier in the week and MV Isle of Lewis completed extended drydock repairs ahead of schedule.

MV Isle of Lewis returned to the Stornoway route from Saturday 16 May following steelwork repairs.

CalMac said the only major vessel still unavailable is MV Finlaggan which remains in planned annual overhaul and is due back in service on Wednesday 20 May.

The return of the vessels restored normal service levels to Coll, Colonsay, Mull, South Uist and Tiree.

Duncan Mackison said: “Earlier this week, we restored normal service levels to Coll, Colonsay, Mull, South Uist and Tiree with the return of MV Hebrides.”

“Now, with MV Isle of Lewis returning from repairs two weeks ahead of schedule, we can plan ahead with a level of confidence.”

“We are delighted to have MV Alfred staying with us until the end of our summer timetable in October and, when all major units are available, we will have a resilience vessel throughout the peak summer months.”

“Having a resilience vessel enables us to respond to any technical breakdowns quickly and to trial different vessels in different ports and better understand what can operate where.”

“This allows us to make improvements to which vessels provide cover during our annual maintenance programme each winter and therefore improve the quality of service we offer island communities.”

CalMac also confirmed that MV Alfred will continue operating on the Troon to Brodick route alongside MV Caledonian Isles throughout the summer timetable.

The return to full service comes ahead of the busy summer travel season across Scotland’s west coast islands.