The Scottish Government has announced plans to reduce CalMac ferry sailings on the busy Firth of Clyde route in a bid to enhance cost-effectiveness.
A public consultation is set to take place, involving passengers, local communities, and unions, to discuss the removal of three daily crossings from the Gourock to Dunoon schedule. Currently operating 30 times a day, the service will be scaled back to 27 crossings once the review is complete.
According to the Scottish Government, this decision follows extensive engagement and careful assessment carried out over the past year. However, the specific sailings earmarked for removal have not yet been confirmed.
A survey of the route found that while the ferry remains a vital link for daily commuters travelling between Gourock and Dunoon for work and education, certain off-peak crossings experience consistently low passenger numbers.
Commitment to Efficiency and Reliability
Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie, emphasised the importance of ensuring CalMac services remain both efficient and sustainable.
He stated: “This ferry service is highly valued, but some crossings are not well utilised. We must strike a balance between travel demand and service provision, focusing on the quality and reliability of the remaining sailings.”
Fairlie reassured regular commuters that peak-time journeys would be prioritised, while underused crossings would be reassessed in the context of alternative transport options.
He continued: “The Scottish Government remains committed to this route, and I have instructed CalMac to engage with passengers, communities, employees, and unions to determine the most suitable sailings for removal. A final decision is expected before summer.”
Looking ahead, the Minister also highlighted the government’s ongoing vessel replacement project, which aims to deliver a more dependable ferry service for residents and businesses reliant on this key transport link.
