The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Islanders’ joy as fares fixed to September
Shipping passengers and businesses across the north and north-east will breathe a huge sigh of relief after the announcement Serco NorthLink Ferries will freeze its fares for six more months.
Transport Scotland has confirmed fares on the northern isles ferry networks will be held until September.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues, those in remote rural and island communities will welcome the brief fares respite, which also applies to routes on the Clyde and Hebrides ferry networks.
Following the announcement, Serco NorthLink Ferries has opened its booking system for spring and summer – so people can book travel up to September 2023.
Serco commercial director for NorthLink Ferries Jim Dow said: “We are pleased to be able to open our booking system up to September 2023, allowing people to book travel both to and from Shetland and Orkney.
“Last year’s passenger numbers show how popular the northern isles are with visitors and we are committed to supporting the tourism sector while continuing to provide the lifeline service for islanders.”
Serco has operated the northern isles service since July 2012, providing scheduled passenger and freight services.
Bookings can be made at northlinkferries.co.uk/
Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth said: “The Scottish Government is acutely aware of the particular challenges faced by our island communities, where the ongoing cost-of-living impacts are arguably more challenging than in any other part of the country.
“Ministers are also mindful of the disruption
on the ferry network in recent times – particularly in relation to the Clyde and Hebrides network.
“This fares freeze is the right thing for our island communities and I hope it will go some way to encouraging tourism this summer as island businesses continue to recover from the pandemic.
“We will consider fares policy in the longer term as part of both the island connectivity plan and our wider fair fares review, to ensure we continue to address the needs of Scotland’s islands.”
Residents of Orkney or Shetland can receive a 30% discount on standard NorthLink Ferries fares.