Red Funnel is making an adjustment to Red Osprey’s annual maintenance schedule to ensure the continued reliability and resilience of its fleet ahead of the busy summer season.
To allow for additional time necessary to complete essential maintenance, including a major service of Red Osprey’s engine and the replacement of the vessel’s Voith unit, the vessel will come off the run again after the Easter holidays.
The adjustment reflects longer delivery times and global supply chain challenges for major engine components, including crankshaft bearings and pistons.
In line with Red Funnel’s commitment to minimise disruption for customers, Red Osprey will re-enter service as planned on 27th March, ensuring that Red Funnel’s full vehicle ferry fleet remains in operation throughout the busy Easter period. Red Osprey will then undergo the balance of her maintenance works from 22nd April to 19th May.
Extra crossings for freight ferry
To further support customers while Osprey undergoes maintenance, Red Funnel will add extra crossings for its freight ferry, Red Kestrel.
These additional sailings will help free deck space on Red Funnel’s vehicle ferries, ensuring plenty of capacity for both vehicle and freight customers during the four-week period.
The company has updated its timetables on the website.
Customers with impacted bookings between 22nd April to 19th May will be contacted by 7th March.
Collins: Minimising inconvenience during the Easter holidays
Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, commented,
“Ensuring the resilience of our vehicle ferries is one of our top priorities, and investing in essential maintenance is the right decision to support our fleet’s long-term reliability.
“We would not wish to go into the summer season knowing that there was work we could have done to improve Red Osprey’s performance.
“This strategic decision allows us to adapt our essential works schedule to align with our customers’ needs and minimise inconvenience, especially during the Easter holidays.
“We greatly appreciate our customers’ support and understanding as we do our best to support them and ensure we’re in a more robust position for the months ahead.”
News shared by Kaya on behalf of Red Funnel. Ed