More ferry disruptions

THE gale force south-easterly winds Shetland has been experiencing since the start of the New Year continue to disrupt NorthLink’s lifeline service between the islands and the Scottish mainland.

After its ferries stayed in port on Wednesday night, the ferry operator has said that both the Hjaltland and the Hrossey will sail on Thursday night, albeit with long delays.

Heading north, the Hjaltland will now depart Aberdeen at 4am on Friday and sail directly to Lerwick where the vessel is expected to arrive at mid-afternoon.

Check-in times for cars and passengers will remain between 3pm and 4.30pm on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the Hrossey is now due to depart Lerwick at 5am on Friday with an estimated time of arrival in Aberdeen currently set for 4pm.

Again, check-in times stay as per advertised timetable, between 5pm and 6.30pm on Thursday.

NorthLink said that Friday night’s sailings were currently under review. Delays would be likely due to the expected late arrivals of the passenger ferries.

Thursday night’s service of the cargo boat Hildasay between Lerwick and Aberdeen has been cancelled.

For a full up-to-date weather forecast please go to www.shetnews.co.uk/weather