Coronavirus / NorthLink back to full capacity
FERRY operator Serco NorthLink has confirmed that its passenger ferries will be able to go back to pre-pandemic capacity numbers from Monday.
This follows on from yesterday’s (Tuesday) announcement by first minister Nicola Sturgeon that Scotland will move “beyond level zero” in terms of Covid restrictions as of 9 August when most of the remaining legally imposed measures will be lifted including social distancing.
Serco’s operations director at NorthLink Ferries captain John Strathearn said: “In line with Scottish Government guidelines we will be increasing capacity on board our ferries from Monday 9 August.
The company clarified that by ‘increasing capacity’ it meant reverting from current 335 passengers on the Hrossey and Hjaltland to the full capacity of 600 passengers.
Captain Strathearn added:”Face coverings will remain mandatory onboard and we continue to ask passengers to plan ahead, follow hygiene measures and conduct pre-departure lateral flow testing to protect themselves, other passengers and keep our crew and communities safe.”
Serco NorthLink also confirmed that from Monday the forward bar on the ferries will be open for longer hours.
However, booking single bunks in a shared cabin will continue to be off limits for the time being.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
