Passengers using the Corran Ferry are being advised to allow extra time for their journeys as the smaller Maid of Glencoul prepares to take over the busy Highland crossing during the MV Corran’s annual refit.
The Highland Council has confirmed that Thursday 29 October will be the final day of service for the MV Corran before the vessel leaves for scheduled maintenance, with the Maid of Glencoul taking over from Friday 30 October.
Although the relief ferry will operate the normal timetable, its smaller capacity means passengers could face longer queues, particularly during busy periods.
The Maid of Glencoul can carry approximately 14 vehicles, considerably fewer than the MV Corran, and has shorter, steeper loading ramps.
Crossings will also take slightly longer, while restrictions on certain vehicles, particularly heavy goods vehicles, will apply throughout the refit period.
The Corran Ferry provides an important transport connection across the Corran Narrows between Nether Lochaber and Ardgour, serving residents, businesses and visitors travelling to and from the Ardnamurchan peninsula and surrounding communities.
For those who depend on the crossing for work, appointments and everyday journeys, even relatively small changes in capacity can make a considerable difference.
The council is encouraging passengers to plan ahead, avoid peak travel periods where possible and check live traffic cameras before setting out.
Queue safety marshals will remain on duty to assist passengers and help manage traffic at the ferry terminals.
Motorists are also reminded that temporary traffic lights remain in operation on the A82 at the Corran Ferry junction.
The lights form part of the ongoing Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme, which is intended to improve the facilities supporting the crossing.
This year’s annual refit will not involve major overhauls of the MV Corran’s principal equipment, although several important maintenance tasks are scheduled.
The original manufacturer of the vessel’s propulsion units will replace components identified during the previous refit, with the work expected to be completed by the end of November.
The council says these repairs are intended to support the ferry’s longer term reliability and help improve the resilience of the service.
Minor alterations will also be made to the crew access doors to ensure the vessel remains compatible with the new berthing structures being installed as part of the infrastructure improvement programme.
The council has stressed that every effort will be made to complete the refit promptly, while ensuring all necessary maintenance is carried out.
However, no confirmed date has yet been given for the MV Corran’s return to service.
During the maintenance period, passengers travelling with larger vehicles are particularly encouraged to check the restrictions before arriving at the ferry terminal.
The combination of reduced vehicle capacity, slightly longer crossings and ongoing roadworks means journey planning will be especially important over the coming weeks.
For communities on both sides of the Corran Narrows, the priority will be maintaining a dependable crossing while essential work is completed on the main ferry.
The Maid of Glencoul will provide that connection from 30 October, with the council promising to keep passengers informed throughout the refit.
The Maid of Glencoul will be operating to the usual timetable, running seven days a week. For latest information, please visit the Corran Ferry Webpage
