Setback for Serco NorthLink as ferry suffers further engine problems

The Hamnavoe is back in Orkney but after experiencing engine trouble on the voyage back from Rosyth, will not be back in service tomorrow, Tuesday.

Stuart Garrett, managing director of Serco NorthLink Ferries, confirmed: “The mv Hamnavoe returned to Stromness late this morning, following completion of the repairs to the starboard engine in Rosyth. Engine checks on arrival revealed damage to the vibration damper. Further investigation is currently under way and we will continue to update customers and the community with progress.”

The current estimate is that the Hamnavoe will return to service on Thursday morning.

Mr Garrett added: “The Pentland Firth service will continue to be operated by our freight vessel mv Helliar, with limited passenger accommodation. Passengers are advised to look at our Kirkwall to Aberdeen route as a possible alternative and we continue to work with both Pentland and John O’Groat Ferries to provide alternative travel arrangements for our passengers and our courtesy bus remains in place.”

“We would like to apologise to our customers for this ongoing inconvenience.”