The Sound of Sleat Ferry Users Group would like to provide some important updates regarding the Mallaig–Armadale route as the summer timetable draws to a close.
If you are planning to travel across the Sound of Sleat over the coming weeks, here is a clear breakdown of the vessel reshuffle, updated schedules, and temporary service alterations.
Current Fleet Status & Network Ripple Effect
The Sound of Sleat is currently operating as a single-vessel route, served by the MV Coruisk.
- MV Loch Bhrusda Deployment: The Loch Bhrusda is temporarily covering the Small Isles route. Following this, it is scheduled to head north to cover the Sound of Harris, where the MV Loch Portain has encountered ongoing operational issues.
- Impact on Mallaig–Armadale: Because of these wider fleet constraints across the network, the MV Coruisk remains the sole car ferry running the route until mid-October.
Clarification on MV Coruisk Departure Date
Contrary to earlier indications that the MV Coruisk would depart at the end of September, CalMac, via the Mallaig Community Council, has confirmed that the MV Coruisk will remain on the Sound of Sleat service until October 15th.
On October 15th, the Coruisk will depart the route to relocate to the Clyde, where it will begin its scheduled duties covering annual vessel overhauls across the network.
Final Days of Summer Timetable: Passenger-Only Charter
The departure of the MV Coruisk on October 15th creates a brief gap before the official start of the winter timetable.
- October 16th – October 18th: For the final three days of the summer timetable, there will be no vehicle service on the Mallaig–Armadale route.
- Foot Passengers: CalMac will operate a passenger-only charter for these three days to maintain connection for foot travellers.
- Vehicles: Anyone needing to travel with a vehicle during this period will need to use the road route via the Skye Bridge.
Winter Timetable Commencement
- From October 19th: The MV Lochnevis will officially take over the Sound of Sleat route to commence the winter schedule, restoring regular vessel service to the crossing. The timetable for this can be downloaded at https://assets.calmac.co.uk/media/grwnqs3y/wtt-18-mallaig-armadale.pdf
Traveler Checklist:
- Travelling with a vehicle before October 15th: Book early as space remains limited on the MV Coruisk.
- Travelling between October 16th–18th: Plan for foot-passenger travel only, or reroute vehicles via the A87 / Skye Bridge.
- Checking real-time updates: Visit the CalMac service status page before traveling at http://calm.ac/18 .
