The eight Island Class ferries, built between 1972 and 1976, were a very simple design, based on World War II landing craft.

They had a two-part folding ramp at the bow, an open plan car deck incorporating a small turntable immediately aft and a sheltered area of passenger accommodation at the stern.

[3] MV Eigg entered service in 1975, on the Raasay crossing from Portree on Skye, bringing vehicle capability to the route.

On the 30th of June 2018, she arrived at Clare Island to take up service there, alongside her sister MV Clew Bay Queen.

Later in 2018 she was sold to new owners Clare Island Ferry Co. of Ireland, and as of December 2020 she is available for hire or bare boat charter.