The unforeseen failure of the Earl Sigurd in December 2003 gave Orkney Ferries little time to investigate the options for a replacement vessel before entering the holiday season. Despite this, letters were sent to the Scottish Executive seeking financial assistance to fund a charter vessel to facilitate the North Isles vessels refit period.

An early meeting was arranged with ship owners to ascertain the options of chartering a suitable replacement for the Earl Sigurd, which could operate within the strict regulatory regime stipulated by the UK authorities as well as dovetailing into the hard port infrastructure common in Orkney.

Simultaneously, the engine manufacturers were alerted and commenced inspection and assessment of the Earl Sigurd within three days of the incident, preparing a comprehensive schedule of re-engineering the necessary components, which require specialist commissioning before rebuilding goes ahead.

All insured events are scrupulously vetted by a loss adjuster appointed by the insurance underwriter. All repairs are therefore known and costs are understood in advance. As we enter the standard refit timetable traditionally associated with this time of year we are widening the search for a suitable stand-in for Earl Sigurd. This is taking place in conjunction and close co-operation with the Scottish Executive. Further progress will be made when availability and indicative costs are identified.

Orkney Ferries has every confidence in the standard of engineering support given by the contractors and the commitment shown to complete the complex task of returning the Earl Sigurd to service as soon as possible.

Orkney Ferries would like to thank their customers for their patience and understanding in this difficult period and confirm that they are taking a very proactive approach and doing everything they can in addressing the issues to bring the third vessel back into service as speedily as possible.