New operator for Ballycastle - Rathlin ferry

[Mary G]

Those of us who sailed into Ballycastle from Campbeltown were welcomed with the surprising sight of a CalMac office. They have for some years run the service to Rathlin. No more it seems: The new contract is going to a company who service islands off County Cork, and they will use a new catamaran vessel, in addition to MV Canna, the current boat.

This change may have an impact on the prospects for the Campbeltown - Ballycastle service. There is 3% annual growth in the Rathlin traffic, which is significant. And over the last six years the increase is 32%, which is extremely healthy. And a faster vessel, with greater capacity, will bring wider benefits to North Antrim. Also, a new operator in that port may be assessing the prospects for other routes, including the one to Kintyre.

http://www.northernireland.gov.uk/news- ... ervice-for

[£3.73]

To the best of my knowledge, Rathlin is an island. (it has no roads out)
So any increase in traffic/visitors is captive until the next ferry sails !
I can see the benefit in this.

Campbeltown unfortunately has roads out (although admittedly they're in such a state it might daunt a few tourists from trying to make a quick exit)

(Maybe we could advertise this fact on the signpost out of town) :D:D

I left my heart in San Francisco (and my suspension at Kennacraig)

[EMDEE]

The trick is to make tourists want to come instead of having to trap them.