BUTE

General information

Course/Position

Latest news

Technical issue with rescue boat

The 'Bute', operating on the route Wemyss Bay.Rothesay, had a technical issue with the rescue boat on April 7, that required further investigations in the port of Rothesay. As a conseuence, the following sailings had to be cancelled: Departure Rothesay - 1:00 p.m. Departure Wemyss Bay - 2:05 p.m. After he technical issue has been resolved, the vessel resume service at 3:00 p.m., departing from Rothesay.

Sailings cancelled due to technical issue with rescue boat

The 'Bute', serving on the route Wemyss Bay-Rothesay, suffered a technical issue with the rescue boat on March 16, 2025. As a consequence, the following sailings had to be cancelled: Departure from Rothesay at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. and the departure from Wemyss Bay at 1:05 p.m. and 3:05 p.m. An update was to be provided by the operator CalMac once more information has become available.

Bute remains longer in shipyard

It had been hoped that the 'Bute', which was withdrawn from service on Nov 20 might be back in operation by Dec 6. The busy mainland to Isle of Bute service will have to run as single rather than a dual ferry service, and customers are continuing to be advised to travel on foot if possible, as vehicle space is very limited. The state-controlled ferry operator has advised passengers to avoid using cars on the service and suggested a 28 mile detour to use another route. CalMac is now working on a new timeline for its return as repairs continue on the vessel, which can carry 450 passengers and 60 cars. It had only just returned to action in the week before the breakdown after an annual overhaul was delayed. CalMac stated:"MV Bute remains withdrawn from service, due to a technical fault with the aft main engine crankshaft. Replacement components are in the process of being sourced and a timeline for repairs is being developed. A return to service date will be confirmed in due course."