The Corran Ferry relief vessel, Maid of Glencoul, has returned to Loch Linnhe in the week beginning 17 August following completion of its 2026 annual maintenance and repairs programme.

After successful sea trials, the vessel sailed home and is now berthed at Fort William while works continue at Ardgour under the Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme (CFIIS).

Chair of Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans, said: “The return of the relief vessel - Maid of Glencoul following her annual refit is welcome news for Corran Ferry users and reflects The Highland Council’s continued commitment to providing a reliable and resilient service for local communities, businesses and visitors.

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"Having a fully operational relief vessel available, strengthens the resilience of the service, helping to minimise disruption and maintain this vital transport link across the Corran Narrows when the main vessel MV Corran is unavailable.

"We are also continuing to make good progress with the Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme (CFIIS), which will deliver lasting improvements for passengers and ferry operations. Together, these investments are enhancing the reliability of the service today while helping to secure a more resilient and sustainable future for the Corran Ferry for years to come."

The next scheduled annual refit will be for MV Corran, starting on 1 November 2026. During that time, Maid of Glencoul will provide relief cover, including the carriage of Dangerous Goods, to keep the service operating.

The Council said it remains focused on optimising Corran Ferry service delivery, reducing any absence of MV Corran and minimising downtime.