Ferry Service

[lochend]

I notice the ferry berthed this evening.I have not read much about it on the forum. Has it been utilised much? Any one have any observations about the success or otherwise, effects on the town etc?

[Ship called Dignity]

I used it a few weeks ago and was superb. My family were over in Ayrshire during the holidays and I went over on the Saturday morning at 7am from Campbeltown and thought it was fantastic. So relaxing. Got on, had breakfast, went for a sleep and woke up at Brodick! Enjoyed the 1 hour crossing from there to Ardrossan on the open deck.

The following day we returned to Campbeltown with the family (and car) and it was simply the most relaxing, fantastic way to travel to Campbeltown. No stress, weather was stunning, family loved it and was a really great way to end their holiday.

The Sunday we returned there were over 240 passengers and apparently more returned on the sailing back to Ardrossan - it certainly was a busy place when we arrived.

Anyone I have spoke to says it is great - especially visitors to the town. More consideration on the timetable is probably required but as it is the 1st year then the important thing is to build in year 2 and 3 to make the pilot a success.

I know I will use it more often if the timings suit.

To even up things I used to 6.30am bus on Wednesday morning and was really surprised how busy it was from Campbeltown - by the time we reached Lochgilphead there were only a couple of seats left. Same on the way home at 2pm on the Thursday afternoon - only a couple of empty seast leaving Glasgow so good to see All modes of transport are vital to Campbeltown.

[lochend]

Thank you for the feedback I appreciate it.I used to travel on the Duchess of Hamilton from Fairlie to the Wee Toon as a child and used to think of it as great adventure.I recall that once the ship was under way the crew would form a small band and play for the passengers,mostly Jimmy Shand stuff with accordians etc. Happy days indeed. Feel a terrific pull to try it again.

[MacMel]

Must say it's a superb service. As has been said the timetable is more to fit in with CB's other routes rather than a considered one for passengers. Not having an in and out on a Saturday is a mistake for many reasons not least the self catering businesses.
But the relaxing trip in and out after or before a long road trip on the mainland makes all the difference and first class food on board saves a motorway services stop too.
Had thought I could get three return trips in before September so bought a six trip ticket to save costs, well it's so good I just bought my second six trip ticket
Don't forget to fill up with fuel at ASDA Ardrossan (at the ferry port) before you cross