Pentland Ferries passenger injuries being assessed

The injuries of passengers from MV Alfred are now being assessed after the Pentland Ferries vessel grounded on the Isle of Swona at 2pm this afternoon. The vessel had 84 passengers and 13 crew on board.

The stability of the catamaran vessel, meant that it was refloated by 3.30pm and continued, under the escort of Orkney Marine Services tugs and the Thurso and Longhope lifeboat, back to St Margaret’s Hope.

Some passengers had already been transferred to the lifeboats before the ship was refloated, and they too were transferred to St Margaret’s Hope.

Managing director of Pentland Ferries, Helen Inkster, said: “Our first priority is the safety of our passengers, and unfortunately, some passengers have sustained injuries, the full extent of which is still being assessed.

“On arrival in St Margaret’s Hope, passengers were taken to the Cromarty Hall for refreshments while we assess the car deck for damage.

“We have already initiated a full investigation as to what caused the ship to ground, and we welcome the Marine Accident Investigation Branch to Orkney tomorrow to start its own investigation.

“We very much regret the inevitable impact this has had on those onboard.”

All sailings of MV Alfred have been suspended, up to and including Sunday 10 July. This is to allow for a full investigation of damage sustained during the grounding of the ship. If you have travel booked and have not already been contacted, please call 01856 831 226.

Pentland Ferries sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused.

Photo credit: Graham Campbell.