MV Eilean Dhiura explained

MV Eilean Dhiura is a vehicle ferry operating across the Sound of Islay.

History

Eilean Dhiura was commissioned by Argyll and Bute Council in 1998,[1] to replace Western Ferries as the Jura Ferry.[2] She was operated initially by Serco Denholm until 2003,[3] now by ASP Ship Management Ltd.[1]

In December 2000, her bow ramp collapsed while at sea. Following this, the MCA required a secondary door to be fitted behind the bow door. A bid by the council for money to replace her was unsuccessful. A new bow ramp was fitted in 2002.

Layout

Eilean Dhiura is an open landing craft type ferry, with bow and stern ramps. Her slim bridge allows vehicles to drive through. A small enclosed cabin provides shelter for passengers.

Service

Eilean Dhiura is the Feolin Ferry, providing the main access to Jura. Islay is connected to the Scottish mainland by a Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Kennacraig. Daily, she crosses the 800abbr=offNaNabbr=off between Port Askaig on Islay and Feolin. During her overhaul, early in the year, the service is provided by a chartered vessel; in the past this was commonly CalMac's, but since 2007 belonging to Inverlussa Shellfish Ltd of Mull, or more recently the Spanish John II, have been used.

External links

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Jura Ferry. Isle Islay. 13 May 2012.
  2. Web site: Caledonian MacBrayne - Former Vessels (and other steamers) . Iain Murray . 13 May 2012 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20110526053802/http://www.computing.dundee.ac.uk/staff/irmurray/ferries4.asp . 26 May 2011 .
  3. Web site: Eilean Dhiura. Clydesights. 16 February 2009. 13 May 2012.