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.

Final Piece of the Jigsaw

The final piece of the aircraft carrier - (HMS) Prince of Wales - left Govan today and is now heading to Rosyth.

This is the Aft Island section.

Ayton Cross took the bow of the barge with CMS Warrior taking the stern.

The Esvagt Connector followed on and she took over the tow at Greenock to continue the journey.

I stopped off at Ferguson Marine where the new Calmac ferry will be launched tomorrow morning.


Passing Langbank


Approaching Port Glasgow


Sea Going Tug Esvagt Connector


Esvagt Connector


All the Tugs


Passing Port Glasgow


CMS Warrior


Heading Downriver


Bound for Greenock


Final Preparations for Tomorrow's Launch


Taking the Strain


Stern View


Heading to Sea

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

CMS Warrior

CMS Warrior arrived at her home port of Greenock last Saturday in blustery wind and rain.

I was given an opportunity to see around her when things were a bit calmer.

She is operated by Clyde Marine Services and is a welcome addition to the Clyde Port.

My thanks to the crew - and it has to be said they operate under severe and dangerous circumstances at times, but obviously love their work.

She has a few jobs scheduled already for later in the week and I'm sure she will be a busy tug on the Clyde.

I hope you enjoy the visual tour.

Arriving Last Week

 Galley

Forward Engine Room

 Aft Engine Room

Wheelhouse

Room with a View

 Looking from the Stern

 Bow Work Area

Galley

Control Panel


Looking Through the Main Cabin Area

On Deck

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

Today's View of the River Clyde

Spent some time at the Cloch Lighthouse today and watched the river traffic go by.

 MV Coruisk bound for Rothesay

Trident Submarine heading to Sea

Entourage Escorts the RN Submarine

Close Quarters

 Sound of Scarba departs Hunter's Quay

Passing the Gantocks

Approaching McInroy's Point

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