Shetland services in focus

摘要

The long term future of Shetland Islands Council ferry services, which cost £10.9 million to run last year but brought in only £1.9 million in fares, is under discussion and an option likely to be considered is putting further routes out to private operation as happened with the Foula service run by Atlantic Ferries since 2006. Seen as vulnerable is the 20-minute Yell Sound service linking Toft, Mainland with Ulsta, Yell, and maintained by the largest SIC vessels, the 2004-built Dagalien and Daggri. In addition to fast rising fuel costs, some of the Shetland's 15 ferry terminals are in use beyond their lifespan and need major attention or renewal, while a number of ships in a 12-strong fleet will also have to be replaced.