MV Catriona - Launch Day

Today we witnessed the launch of the MV Catriona - the first ship built since Jim McColl rescued the yard when things looked very dark indeed.

Since the rescue we have seen investment in infrastructure, and the rebuilding continues.

Talking to the yard workers it was clear to see that they were happy with the new scenario and the future looks and feels good.

The weather threatened prior to the launch but pleased to say we were blessed with some sunshine at the right time.

When in service she can carry 150 passengers, 23 cars, or two HGVs. She is the third ferry built at Fergusons utilising a hybrid system of diesel and battery power.

After sea trials we expect to see her in service in the summer of next year.

 Piper Plays

 Getting ready for the Launch

 Crowds start to Gather

 Rainbow

 Waiting for the Launch

 Bottom is Wet

 A Loud Cheer


In She Goes

 Local school kids enjoy this piece of History

Ready for the next One

 The man who saved the shipyard

 Launch Party

 Best View?

Battler Assists to Berth

Jim McColl with the shipyard Workers

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.com - better resolution and options to licence.

MV Lochinvar Launch at Ferguson Shipbuilders

The second of the hybrid diesel electric ferries for CMAL was launched this morning at Ferguson Shipbuilders in Port Glasgow.

The sun shone brightly, though we are still enduring a cold wind even this far in to the year.

As always Fergusons are good hosts to the local community and we are privileged to be able to watch their fine vessels be launched. It is so much part of the Clyde tradition.

Great to see the local school children enjoy the spectacle and witness their future heritage first hand.

The launch was carried out by Patricia Platten - wife of Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) CEO - Guy Platten. 

All went smoothly thought he wind did carry her a bit further upriver than perhaps was anticipated.

However she was soon secured by Clyde Marine's tugs and berthed where she will now be fitted out before sea trials.

 Welcome to the Launch

 Waiting to Go

Deck Party

Pupils and Teachers Await the Launch

Dignitaries at the MV Lochinvar Launch

MV Lochinvar Makes a Splash

Last Minute Checks Before the Launch

Final Manoeuvres to Berth 'MV Lochinvar' 

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.co.uk - and are also better resolution and available to order.