Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) has renamed the newest fleet member from MV Utne to MV Loch Frisa.

A small renaming ceremony was hosted in Craignure on Monday 6th June to thank those who have aided in bringing the vessel into service. Attendees included former Argyll and Bute councillor Mary-Jean Devon, children from Ulva and Tobermory primary schools who had won a competition to have their Mull-themed art displayed on the ferry, as well as CalMac crew and local media.

Mary-Jean Devon smashed a bottle of Tobermory whisky and officially renamed the vessel from MV Utne, to MV Loch Frisa, a name chosen by public vote earlier this year. Guests were then given tours of the ferry, and artwork painted by Deborah Campbell gifted to the vessel was unveiled on the passenger deck.

John Salton, project director at CMAL, said: “The team at Dales Marine Services in Leith have worked hard to upgrade the MV Loch Frisa and ensure she is equipped to operate in Scottish waters. We fitted her with new ramps, mooring platforms, lifesaving apparatus and new sewage treatment equipment. I’d like to thank everyone who helped bring her into service.”

Berthing trials, crew familiarisation and ramp load trials will now be undertaken before her introduction into service mid-June. The vessel, which was purchased from Norled, Norway, in 2021, has undergone a £4.5m refurbishment, and will operate on the Oban-Craignure route. It will support the MV Isle of Mull with a year-round service.

 


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