Why don’t you use the third Ferry when you are running a two-ferry service and there are problems or queues?

We recognise that queues and delays are very frustrating for customers and we always consider resourcing and other options to minimise disruption. Unfortunately, while it would be great to be able to bring the third ferry into service at a moment’s notice, this is not possible for a number of reasons.

Out of service ferries are moored up in deep water to protect them from grounding during changing tidal states. In favourable conditions, it takes approximately 20 minutes to get crew on board a moored-up ferry and complete the necessary safety and start-up procedures before it can be brought in to service.

The vessels have complex drive systems that require very careful and systematic start up sequencing.
Providing the capacity to bring the third ferry into service at very short notice would also require significant additional standby resources. Achieving this 365 days a year would result in significant additional numbers of staff paid to be on standby, and on balance the cost is considered unjustifiable. We are also constrained by employment legislation and working time directives that limit crew operating hours.

The two-ferry service periods also enable the maintenance team to complete planned maintenance on the ferry which may mean it is temporarily unserviceable, and provide opportunities for legislative, safety and service inspections to be carried out and for refuelling etc.