Following the First Minister’s confirmation that Scotland has moved beyond Level 0 of the Scottish Government Coronavirus protection measures, CalMac has confirmed the following changes to operations across its network from 9 August 2021.

Capacity

Official physical distancing guidelines will be lifted on 9 August 2021. This means that the number of passengers carried on board the vessels will increase.

Although passenger capacity is increasing, CalMac expects vehicle ticket availability to be limited since demand remains high and there are customer vehicle reservations already in the system. This may mean that your preferred choice of sailing is not always available.

Safer Travel

Some mitigations will remain in place to help reduce the risk of new COVID-19 strains spreading. This means that within indoor areas on ferries and in port offices, face coverings will still be required by law, unless exempt. CalMac will also continue to implement important safer travel rules to keep crews, customers and the islands served safe.

The safer travel rules are:

– Don’t travel if you feel unwell or self-isolating.

– Continue to prepare and plan ahead for your journey.

– Wear a face covering unless exempt.

– Wash your hands regularly.

– Pay using contactless methods.

– Follow guidance and listen to staff.

Increased vessel turnaround times will continue to allow for enhanced cleaning, which is already reflected in the timetables of individual routes.

See Safer Travel link for more information: https://www.calmac.co.uk/covid19/faqs/safer-travel-with-calmac

Car decks 

Due to Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) rules, passengers and freight drivers will no longer be permitted to stay with their vehicle on enclosed vehicle decks of RO-RO vessels.

Passengers travelling from Wemyss Bay-Rothesay, Berneray-Leverburgh, Oban-Craignure (MV Coruisk) sailings will therefore no longer be able to stay in their vehicles during the crossing.