Hoy Head in half

The project to extend the South Isles ferry Hoy Head has reached a key milestone, with the hull split in two and a new section lowered into place.

The work will increase the car capacity from 14 to 24 cars – and enable the ferry to carry up to three 16.5 metre HGVs and seven cars.

As well as updating and lengthening the vessel, the £2.7 million project involves equipping the Hoy Head with new thrusters. The work is being carried out at the Cammell Laird yard on Merseyside.

“It’s great to see the new section of hull being put into place,” said captain Alistair Wylie, Orkney Ferries’ ferry operations manager.

“Extending the Hoy Head by over 13 metres will enable the company to meet increasing demand for our South Isles service. We look forward to seeing the Hoy Head back in Orkney later this year.”