MV Hebridean Isles was a ro-ro vehicle ferry that was operated by Caledonian MacBrayne on the west coast of Scotland.
With bow, stern and side ramps, Hebridean Isles was suitable for all the routes served by the large fleet units.
[5] Broadly similar to the MV Isle of Arran, she was intended for the Uig triangle, but was designed to be suitable for use anywhere within the network.
Following her delivery voyage, she conducted trials at various ports around the network, but did not take up duties at Uig, Skye until spring 1986.
One deck comprised the cafeteria furthest aft, then the entrance concourse, shop and information point, with the reclining lounge and bar towards the bow.
Between 2003 and 2011, she was joined by Isle of Arran in the summer, providing a series of additional sailings throughout the week and maintaining the service on Wednesdays during the Oban extension.
[6] During June and July 2010, Hebridean Isles was redeployed on the Oban to Coll and Tiree run, replacing MV Clansman, which had suffered major engine problems.
[8] In July 2016, she collided with the pier at Kennacraig, with her traffic being carried by Finlaggan and the cargo boat Red Princess.
In October 2016, Hebridean Isles provided a twice-nightly freight service on the Ullapool - Stornoway route whilst MV Loch Seaforth was in dry-dock.
She operated the route alone (rather than alongside Isle of Arran) due to a temporary timetable caused by staff absences relating to COVID-19.
[15] She spent time laid up in Troon and Ayr, and in dry dock at Greenock and Birkenhead, where a further rudder fault was discovered during sea trials.
[19] On 26 August, Hebridean Isles arrived in Aberdeen for further repairs in dry dock by Dales Marine Services.
[22] The announcement came just a day after Hebridean Isles was temporarily removed from service due to a bow thruster problem, though CalMac stressed this was not related to the retirement plans.
[23] In September 2024, Hebridean Isles moved from the Islay service to Arran, operating alongside MV Alfred.