New Rathlin Island ferry operator to start services on Friday

The Department for Infrastructure said Dunaverty Ltd will be the new operator on the Rathlin Island to Ballycastle route.

A passenger-only vessel will run five return sailings a day, weather permitting.

The department’s vehicle-carrying vessel, the Spirit of Rathlin, will resume once approvals are in place with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd has ceased trading, with its final sailing on Wednesday.

No sailing will take place on Thursday, the department confirmed to PA.

The department said Wednesday’s announcement follows several weeks of engagement with Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd in relation to the contract between them, including the financial position of the ferry company.

Officials said they received notification on Wednesday from the company that it would cease trading with immediate effect.

The department said it has been working on contingency arrangements which could be implemented urgently.

Prior to confirmation of a new operator on Wednesday, a department spokesperson said: “Following several weeks of engagement between the department and Rathlin Island Ferry Limited in relation to matters arising from the contract between them, including the financial position of the ferry company, the department received notification today from the company that it is to cease trading with immediate effect."

Charles Stewart of Dunaverty, which also owns and operates Kintra Tours, said the firm is looking forward “to working with the department, the existing workforce and the local community to continue to develop and grow this lifeline service”.

Ferry crew members have been involved in strike action amid a row over pay.

Rathlin has a permanent population of around 150 people.

It is popular with tourists and is known for its colonies of breeding seabirds.

The RSPB, which operates on Rathlin Island, said it was a worrying time for the island community.

Director Joanne Sherwood said: “The ferry service is vital for the island community and for all who live and work on the island or rely on it to commute to Ballycastle and beyond.”