Hrossey heading to Scrabster with fouled propeller
THE NORTHLINK ferry Hrossey has now been diverted to Scrabster to allow divers to inspect a fouled propeller.
The lifeline ferry with 83 passengers and 21 cars on board became partly incapacitated overnight on her scheduled journey from Lerwick to Aberdeen.
But due to the north easterly swell and the fact that one of the vessel’s two propellers was out of action, the Hrossey was not allowed to enter Aberdeen harbour without a pilot on board.
However, due to the current weather conditions outside Aberdeen harbour it has not been possible to transfer a pilot to the Hrossey.
NorthLink chief executive Stuart Garrett said the current weather conditions meant it was not possible to safely transfer a pilot from a boat to the passenger ferry.
The vessel is now on her way to Scrabster where she is expected to safely berth before having the damage to her propeller inspected. Estimated time of arrival in Scrabster is 8pm.
Garrett apologised for the inconvenienced caused and added: “We are currently making arrangements for onward travel for the passengers on board, and thank them for the understanding and patience they have shown.”
Depending on the time it will take to free the vessel of the obstruction and fix any damage, the current plan is for the vessel to take up her schedule again by sailing to Kirkwall and then onwards to Lerwick.
Tonight’s scheduled departure from Aberdeen has been cancelled.
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