Fast ferry sets sail
Thursday, 3 July 2008
The new owners of the Rathlin to Ballycastle ferry service, Ciaran and Mary O’Driscoll, took over the route on Tuesday, which will now be served by a catamaran that will make the journey between the island and the mainland in 20 minutes, as well as the MV
THE Rathlin to Ballycastle ferry's new owners took over the reigns of the route on Tuesday, bringing an end to Caledonian MacBrayne's 12 year association with the route.
The first boat, a catamaran called Ossian of Staffa, left the island at 7.30am and made the crossing in 20 minutes. The introduction of the new ferry service - this new fast passenger boat as well as the present vessel the MV Canna - will enhance and improve access for both residents and visitors to Rathlin Island.
With two boats now serving the route, the number of crossings back and forth each day has more than doubled.
Cork-based businessman Ciaran O'Driscoll and his wife Mary, who have 30 years of experience in the ferry industry, are looking forward to their new business venture, in spite of the recent speculation about their take-over of the ferry route tender.
Speaking to The Chronicle from the Marine Hotel on the eve of their take-over, Mrs O'Driscoll put an end to the speculation that has been surrounding their winning tender.
The Department of Regional Development awarded Mr O'Driscoll the tender back in April with June 1 pencilled in as the original hand-over date, but delays have meant the official hand-over has come a month late.
