Ferry fares across Scotland are set to rise by 10% in the coming year, as announced by the Scottish Government’s Transport Secretary, Fiona Hyslop. The fare increase will come into effect from January 1 on the Northern Isles network and from March 28 on the west coast. The decision to raise fares comes as Scotland’s ferry system continues to grapple with disruptions caused by breakdowns.
In a letter to the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee at Holyrood, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop explained that maintaining a fare freeze this year, which cost around £10 million, is no longer feasible given the financial challenges faced by the government. Hyslop expressed that the freeze on ferry fares for 2023-24 was aimed at assisting individuals, businesses, and communities during the cost-of-living crisis and post-pandemic recovery period. However, sustaining the freeze has resulted in a significant revenue loss for the government.
Hyslop stated, “Reluctantly, we are having to raise ferry fares in the coming year by 10 per cent, bringing fare levels back to around what they would have been had fares not been frozen in 2023-24.” The decision to increase fares aims to recover some of the previous financial losses, address budget pressures, and ensure sustained support for the ferry network in the future.
The Scottish Conservatives have criticized the fare hike, stating that island communities dependent on CalMac for lifeline services have already endured substandard service due to procurement issues. The party’s transport spokeswoman, Sue Webber, highlighted the challenges faced by these communities and questioned the need for the fare increase, attributing it to the government’s inefficient management of ferry services.
The route between Brodick in Ayrshire and the Isle of Arran has experienced ongoing disruptions in recent months, with maintenance issues affecting ferry services. Delays in the construction of new vessels at Ferguson Marine in Port Glasgow have also contributed to network delays.
The increase in ferry fares has sparked concerns among passengers and communities reliant on ferry services across Scotland. The announcement has raised questions about the government’s handling of ferry operations and the impact of these decisions on local residents and businesses.
As discussions around ferry fare rises continue, stakeholders are calling for transparency, accountability, and solutions to improve the efficiency and reliability of Scotland’s ferry services for the benefit of all passengers and communities.