News / Hrossey crippled by oil boat
FERRY travellers to and from the northern isles will experience further disruptions after the NorthLink’s passenger ship was taken out of service for urgent repairs.
The vessel was struck by a passing oil industry supply vessel while berthed at Jamieson’s Quay, in Aberdeen harbour, on Thursday evening and will be out of action at least until Sunday.
A company spokesman said the ferry had sustained two deep gouge marks on the port side above the water line, partially penetrating the steel plate, and a temporary repair was not possible.
“Hrossey will be out of service until the damaged section has been replaced in a permanent repair,” he said.
“Accordingly, tonight’s (Friday) northbound sailing and tomorrow night’s (Saturday) southbound sailing from Lerwick have been cancelled.
“It is envisaged that Hrossey will resume service with the northbound sailing to Kirkwall and Lerwick on Sunday night.”
During this week NorthLink ferries Hrossey and Hjaltland missed two trips each between Lerwick and Aberdeen due to south easterly gales and entry restrictions at Aberdeen harbour due to tide and wave conditions.
The NorthLink spokesman said passengers had been informed of the latest cancellations and apologised for an inconvenience caused.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.