Hoy Head faces three week lay off

Mv Hoy Head is expected to be out of service for at least three weeks, Orkney Ferries has confirmed this Tuesday afternoon.

This announcement follows the vessel’s breakdown on Saturday, January 15.

In the meantime, the service between Houton, Flotta and Lyness will be covered by mv Thorsvoe.

An Orkney Islands Council spokeswoman, speaking on behalf of Orkney Ferries, said: “The Hoy Head had a mechanical breakdown on Saturday morning, resulting in damage to the Port engine. The root cause of this failure will be subject to ongoing investigation.

“It is initially expected that the vessel will be out of service for a minimum of three weeks, with the Thorsvoe covering the service during this period.

“Amendments to the booking system to accommodate this change — including the reduced capacity —  are under way and we thank passengers for their patience.”