The 'Hebridean Isles' will leave CalMac’s fleet in Nov 2024 after almost four decades of operation, as she would require a significant programme of work in overhaul. Given her age and general condition, significant works had already been identified for overhaul were she to enter it. This, plus the requirement for a mandatory five-year survey, means the vessel would have spent a large period in drydock, certainly missing the bulk of the winter timetable.. The 'Hebridean Isles'’ certification expires on Nov 21, so the ship will be removed from service by that date. CalMac expect her to exit active service in mid-November, allowing time to travel to a recycling facility before her certification expires. The vessel, which is one of the oldest in the CalMac fleet, has served west coast communities with distinction since her maiden voyage in December 1985. She has primarily served Islay in recent years. The first of four new major vessels being built in Turkey, Isle of Islay, will operate the route when she enters service later this year. A second vessel, the 'Loch Indaal', will serve Islay from early 2025. Works are ongoing to upgrade Kennacraig port on the mainland, and Port Askaig on Islay, in preparation for the new vessels arriving. They will increase vehicle and freight capacity on the route by almost 40 %. Photo by Mark Nicolson
News
ALFA NERO
The government of Antigua and Barbuda has successfully sold the 'Alfa Nero' for more than €36 million. The Ministry of Finance and Corporate Governance confirmed that the Antigua Port Authority "has successfully completed the sale and the expeditious removal of the yacht from our jurisdiction. The vessel had been anchored in Antigua since February 2022. It belonged to a Russian oligarch targeted by Western sanctions. After seizing it in April 2023, the government put it up for auction. The American tech mogul Eric Schmidt initially won the bid with a $67 million offer, but later pulled out, citing legal complications. The new buyer’s name has not been disclosed. The proceeds from the sale will be used to meet various obligations, including the settlement of outstanding debts to creditors and crew since the yacht's arrival. In addition to covering these debts, a portion of the proceeds will be allocated to cover the $220 million funding gap recorded for the first half of 2024. The government also planned to assess the economic impact of the vessel's extended presence. An assessment that will determine all damages incurred over the past 24 months, with the aim of ensuring accountability and preventing similar events in the future.
