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NorthLink 'proud to play its part' after recording more than 8000 journeys





NorthLink Ferries’ MV Hamnavoe sailing past the Old Man of Hoy. Picture: NorthLink Ferries
NorthLink Ferries’ MV Hamnavoe sailing past the Old Man of Hoy. Picture: NorthLink Ferries

Serco NorthLink Ferries recorded more than 8000 journeys during the start of 2021 as it continues to support essential travel.

The company operates services between the Scottish mainland and the Northern Isles, including the Scrabster/Stromness link.

It is providing key worker, essential islander and freight connectivity in line with the Scottish Government’s strategic framework.

During the period January 5 to March 15, passenger numbers across all routes were 8074 compared with 21,282 over the same period in 2020 – a reduction of 62 per cent. Car volumes for January and February were recorded at 2214, which represented a 58 per cent reduction on the 5220 in 2020.

Of those journeys, 42 per cent were undertaken by key workers with 32 per cent classed as islander necessary travel. The next highest category was essential visitor travel at 11.5 per cent, followed by NHS travel (patients and staff) which represented 9.4 per cent of journeys.

The company said its freight volumes, which provide essential inward supplies and services as well as outward exports, had held up strongly. Freight lane meterage was recorded at 78,588 since the start of the year, a five per cent increase on the same period in 2020.

Stuart Garrett, Serco’s managing director of NorthLink Ferries, said: “We remain proud to play our part in ensuring both inward goods and essential export markets from Shetland and Orkney have been well served over this period while ensuring that those who need to travel can do so safely. We also again thank our customers for their adherence to the physical distancing requirements and Covid-19 protocols both within our terminals and on board all our vessels.”

NorthLink services are operating on their normal timetable. Assessments have been carried out to ensure appropriate physical distancing can be maintained, with capacity set at 335 on the MV Hjaltland and MV Hrossey, and 290 on MV Hamnavoe. Passengers travelling with NorthLink Ferries will be challenged as to their reason for travel, both at the time of booking and at the port of embarkation.

Bookings can be made at www.northlinkferries.co.uk or by calling 0845 6000 449.


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