Visiting ferry trials prove to be a success

The berthing trials at Hatston Pier carried out using the new £42million Caledonian MacBrayne ferry Loch Seaforth have been considered a success, according to the company.

The ship left Kirkwall earlier this morning for Scrabster, where further trials are also to be carried out.

Launched last year in Germany, the vessel was built to operate between Stornoway and Ullapool, however port upgrades have delayed the ship being brought into service on the route.

Following the Orkney trials, which saw the ship connecting up to the linkspan at Hatston both stern and bow on, the company spokesman added: “I’m advised that the visit to Hatston was considered a success. It’s purpose was solely to give the ship’s masters ship handling and berthing training whilst we wait for Stornoway to be completed.”