CalMac have today published the temporary timetables that will run from July 1st to July 14th. More details on the booking system have been also been announced:
- Bookings for the new temporary timetables open on June 30th at 9am.
- Bookings will only be available for a rolling 2-week window, in order to manage demand and to try to prevent short-notice local travellers from being denied space. So on June 30th you can book sailings between July 1st and July 14th; on July 1st you can book sailings between July 2nd and July 15th; on July 2nd you can book sailings between July 3rd and July 16th ….. and so on.
- 20% of spaces on bookable routes will be kept free for ‘turn up and go’, again to help ensure space is available for local travellers who need it. But book if you can of course!
See the CalMac update here
To refresh a few points from previous updates:
- Foot passenger spaces on the Oban-Craignure will be bookable from July 1st.
- All minor vessel services remain as turn-up-and-go for both vehicles and passengers.
- The ‘summer’ timetables that will run from July 15th to October 18th will be published on 26th June. The most significant change will be the addition of the Coruisk to the Oban-Craignure route, running three returns per day.
- Face coverings are mandatory on ferries, unless you have a medical exemption.
- Total passenger capacity on the MV Isle of Mull is just 104 people. If the 2 metre social distancing rule is relaxed, this will increase.
- From July 3rd, ferries may be used by visitors on their way to/from self-contained self-catering properties.
- Also from July 3rd, ferries may be used for recreation trips – ie going for a walk or a day trip, without a distance limit.
- When the Coruisk rejoins the service, you will be able to remain in your car for the crossing.
- CalMac are working toward the provision of ‘outer deck only’ tickets for the MV Isle of Mull, to be sold on a turn-up-and-go basis.