A scheme that sets aside ferry space for urgent island travel has now been extended to two more lifeline routes, following strong community support and calls for action from Highlands and Islands MSP Ariane Burgess.
The Scottish Green MSP welcomed the move, which means that the vehicle deck space reservation pilot, first launched on the Oban-Craignure and Oban-Coll/Tiree routes will now include sailings on the Sound of Harris and Sound of Barra.
The system holds back a portion of car deck space to be released closer to the sailing date, making it easier for islanders to book essential last-minute trips.
It’s a change designed to reflect the reality of island life, where short-notice travel is often not a choice but a necessity.
Burgess had urged the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, to extend the scheme after hearing directly from constituents on Tiree.
She says the move shows what’s possible when government listens to the people most affected.
“Islanders have made it clear that access to ferry travel at short notice is essential for daily life,” she said.
“I’m pleased to see that the Scottish Government and CalMac have responded positively to community feedback and extended the pilot to additional routes.”
“This is a direct result of the collaborative efforts between communities, Transport Scotland, and elected representatives.”
The Cabinet Secretary confirmed that the pilot will be reviewed in full at the end of the summer.
Adjustments will continue to be made in the meantime based on local input and the unique pressures of each route.
One key area under active discussion is whether to reserve the held-back space for islanders only.
That option is now being explored by Transport Scotland and CalMac, though any changes would need to be carefully designed to ensure fairness.
Burgess supports the idea in principle but stresses that equity and flexibility must go hand in hand.
“I will continue to advocate for a system that prioritises islanders while ensuring fairness and flexibility,” she said.
She also pointed to a longer-term opportunity to shape a more robust model of island travel, one that better reflects the needs of remote communities.
“I’m encouraged that the new ferry contract does not prevent the introduction of a more comprehensive ‘Samso-style’ priority system in the future, should that be the direction communities wish to take.”
“Ferry services must be reliable, accessible, and responsive to local need.”
Islanders have welcomed the move, knowing that ferry access means more than convenience, it’s about reaching loved ones, keeping appointments, and living life without constant barriers.
As island communities continue to speak up, the hope is that policy will continue to follow their lead.
