One of the Kenilworth's half-sisters, MV Hotspur IV, remained operational with the Hythe Ferry service until 2014.

[1][4] In 1978, Hotspur II was bought by Clyde Marine Motoring to operate the Gourock – Kilcreggan service.

At 9.40 am BST on 23 October 2006, a US Navy warship taking part in the Neptune Warrior training exercise radioed the Kenilworth to warn "Unidentified vessel approaching on my starboard side, please identify yourself.

The message caused alarm as it was broadcast on VHF channel 16, the international calling and distress frequency.

She stated that the ferry had not been in any danger, and advised that the organiser of the exercise, Commander Don Chalmers, deputy director of the Joint Maritime Operational Training Staff, had apologised to the skipper.