Lady of Lismore comes home
Lismore has welcomed the arrival of its new passenger ferry, writes Kathie Griffiths.
The Lady of Lismore arrived at Port Appin last week after a journey of 302 nautical miles from Pembrokeshire.
Passengers will have to wait a little longer before they can start using it though.
An official hand-over has to be completed first and that could take until the end of April.
The new all-steel vessel is 39ft, accommodates 23 passengers all year round and will have a crew of two.
Funded by Transport Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council awarded the £500,000 contract to Mainstay Marine Solutions.
Islanders and primary school pupils chose the name Lady of Lismore following a poll organised by the island’s community council. Once the Scottish Government local elections are over, a community event will be organised to celebrate her arrival.
Argyll and Bute Council’s head of roads and infrastructure services Jim Smith said it was ‘fantastic’ to see the Lady of Lismore safely home: ‘We know there has been a lot of excitement waiting for her arrival and we look forward to passengers enjoying excellent service from the ferry for many years to come,’ he said.
‘We’re proud that we have delivered this vital lifeline to the island and wish the Lady of Lismore well and all who sail on her.’