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Rathlin's new ferry makes first trip

Monday, 20 July 2009

The new Rathlin Express Catamaran has arrived at Rathlin Island Harbour with 100 passengers for the first time.

Mr Ciar�n O’Driscoll, from Cape Clear Island — Ireland’s most southerly island — won the ferry contract for the service from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island, Ireland’s most northerly island.

“The introduction of a new fast passenger service between Rathlin and Ballycastle will enhance the tourism product in both centres,” said Mr O’Driscoll.

The operating company will be Rathlin Island Ferry Limited. The O’Driscoll companies already run two ferry services to the West Cork Islands of Whiddy Island and Cape Clear Island.

Mr O’Driscoll said: “Having been born and bred on an island I am very aware of the challenges that islanders face.

“Access is the most important aspect as this is our lifeline for everything. Improved ferry services will improve the life standard of the islanders all year round. Employment is another critical consideration for island dwellers and I do not envisage any staff reductions; indeed I would foresee a need for additional recruitment as the business develops.”

The catamaran will make the crossing between Ballycastle and Rathlin in approximately 20 minutes.

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"A picture would have been nice!"

I believe that the consensus within the maritime industry is that said catamaran is "top heavy"...

"ps. thanks also to calmac for the many years of service they gave us."

Are they still not using the old Calmac owned "Canna"?

Posted by ptoes | 22.07.09, 00:36 GMT

we were suppose to receive a catamaran on cape clear since Jan 08 still no sign.Operator claims he is running at a loss,losing money etc,tried to reduce staff wages by 27% and get them to work 4 weeks of their holidays.One Skipper has been let go and another has left.Things are bad down here in the south west.
Its a disgrace that a ferry worth 1.2m be purchased by the operator who is letting go staff,reducing wages,pleading poverty at the other end of the country.

Posted by john | 21.07.09, 15:30 GMT

the new fast ferry is a great boost to the islanders and also to the
thousands of tourists who visit each year.
with this early morning fast ferry islanders and others can plan ahead with confidence,workers can come to rathlin on the first ferry,complete their days work and go home in the evening.
best wishes to the new ferry operator for the future. loughie.

ps. thanks also to calmac for the many years of service they gave us.

Posted by loughie mc cuaig | 20.07.09, 12:59 GMT