CalMac's Arran ferry service, the MV Caledonian Isles, was evacuated at Ardrossan on Friday evening following a bomb threat. This occurred after a passenger was rescued from the water during the 16:40 sailing from Brodick to Ardrossan.
The ferry operator confirmed that a person was reported overboard, and the vessel's fast rescue craft was launched to recover them. The individual then reportedly claimed there was a bomb on board, leading to emergency protocols being implemented.
The ferry was fully searched, and 329 passengers were removed on foot when the vessel berthed at Ardrossan. Passengers and those waiting at the port were directed to a nearby Asda car park by police while the search was conducted. Vehicles remained on board the MV Caledonian Isles.
All remaining scheduled sailings from Ardrossan for Friday evening have been cancelled. CalMac CEO Duncan Mackison stated that staff and crew are following emergency procedures alongside emergency services, and no injuries have been reported.