MV Finlaggan

MV Finlaggan was built in Gdańsk for the Kennacraig - Islay route. Launched on 30 June 2010,[1] she arrived in Scotland in May 2011. During trials, she developed engine problems, forcing cancellation of the inaugural sailing.[5] She had further problems with her bow doors,[6] requiring withdrawal from service for overhaul of her hydraulic systems in Birkenhead.[7][8]

Finlaggan is of ro-ro design with bow and stern ramps. She is the first CalMac ship to have "clam shell" bow doors, that open sideways.[4] The car deck is partially open at the stern and has a mezzanine deck capable of taking an additional 18 cars.[1]

She has three passenger decks, two with external panoramic seating. There is a restaurant, shop, and two disabled lifts serving all decks. Entering through doors on the car deck, stairs provides access to a lounge with a bar/coffee shop, games room and baggage storage. A further staircase, with a statue in the middle, goes to an upper deck which has the cafeteria, a lounge with dog areas, a children's play area and televisions.[9]

Finlaggan has taken up the Kennacraig – Islay route, releasing MV Isle of Arran. During the winter months, she often relieves on the Uig Triangle.[1][10]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to MV Finlaggan.

• MV Finlaggan on www.calmac.co.uk
• Image on the Mersey
• Pictures during construction