Following the launch of the MV FINLAGGAN in Gdansk last summer, the vessel has now been fitted out and recently undertook an extensive six day sea trial programme ahead of her arrival in the UK in May.

The vessel conducted sea trials in the Gulf of Gdansk which involved the testing of all the machinery and equipment to full use. All adjustments and calibrations have now been completed and recorded. The MV FINLAGGAN was ballasted to her full load marks to ensure all the necessary parameters were met and she averaged a speed of 16.6kts during the speed trials.

The trials were witnessed by the Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) vessels team and classification society surveyors. Ninety-four people were onboard the vessel during the trials including shipyard workers, classification society surveyors, makers representatives, CMAL staff and a small number of CalMac crew.

The vessel, which will serve the Kennacraig to Islay route, was commissioned by CMAL and will be the first new ship to serve the route in almost 40 years and will sail from Kennacraig to Port Askaig initially, while infrastructure works are completed at Port Ellen.

The final phase of the build will see the passenger accommodation areas completed and any snagging issues addressed before the MV FINLAGGAN sails to the UK. The vessel will be handed over to CMAL in early May when it will then be formally chartered to CalMac Ferries Ltd before sailing back to Scotland shortly after.

Commenting on progress, Chief Executive of CMAL Guy Platten said: “We are delighted that the MV FINLAGGAN has now completed her sea trials and will shortly arrive in the UK.

“We look forward to welcoming the vessel to Scottish waters in the near future.”

Latest photos of MV Finlaggan