The prospects of serving the most remote parts of the western isles by steamboat featured early the annals. In the Herald of December 22, 1820, the following appeared:—
“Steam-Packets to the Hebrides and North-west of Scotland.—The great facilities now afforded for visiting many parts of this country, by means of the cheap and safe conveyance of these vessels, continue to be everywhere on the increase. At present, it must afford much satisfaction to all interested in the northern parts of our Island, to learn, that a communication is now to be opened, by this admirable invention, to many parts of the Highlands which were lately, and are yet, comparatively inaccessible by roads. It is now intended that a Steam-boat shall begin to ply from the Clyde—to the Lewes, through the Crinan Canal and Sound of Mull—to call at Tobermory—from thence to the Sound of Skye—call at Isle Ornsay, Lochalsh, Castlemoil, Portree, and afterwards to go on to Stornoway. The Steam-boat Highland Chieftain has already gone as afar as the Sound of Skye on this route, for a trial, and performed the passage in the remarkably short space of 35 hours from Glasgow—a distance of 235 miles, notwithstanding she had to steam the currents which run so violently in the Sounds of Skye and Mull. She returned in nearly the same time, and encountered, with great intrepidity, very severe weather. The track it is now proposed that this Steam-boat shall run, will be highly gratifying in the summer months for an excursion.”
In fact it was to be almost another decade before a suitable craft was purchased for the service. The Ben-Nevis was advertised for sale early in 1828, and was purchased by Archibald M‘Eachern.
“The Ben-Nevis is propelled by an engine of 32 horse power, or thereby which, with the boilers, is nearly in excellent working condition. She was built about three years ago of the best materials, is copper fastened with a length of 82 feet 9 inches, breadth 13 feet 3 inches, burthen per register 44 81/94th tons. She is elegantly fitted up as a passage boat, is constructed so as to pass through the Crinan and Caledonian Canals, and having proved an excellent sea boat, is admirably suited for trading in the direction of the West, or North Highlands. Her cabin furniture and plenishing, including an improved cooking apparatus, are in good condition. Apply to Alexander Ure, 10 King Street, Glasgow 21st March, 1828.”
A regular sailing from Glasgow to Stornoway by this small boat, small enough to pass through the Crinan Canal and thus avoid the difficulties of sailing round the Mull of Kintyre, was advertised in June. The boat would sail in conjunction with two other early steamboats to the western highlands and islands, the Highlander and the Maid of Morven.
“Regular conveyance betwixt Glasgow and Stornoway.
“The Ben-Nevis steam-boat having lately undergone a complete repair, in consequence of which she is greatly improved both in hull and machinery, it has been arranged that she is to ply regularly once a fortnight with goods and passengers betwixt Glasgow and Stornoway, in conjunction with the Highlander and Maid of Morven steam-boats which have been so long established as passage-boats betwixt Glasgow and the Western Islands. The Ben-Nevis will, accordingly, commence plying from the Broomielaw under this arrangement on Tuesday the 10th June, in place of Friday the 6th as formerly advertised and continue to do so every alternate Tuesday thereafter, during the season, leaving Stornoway on her return to Glasgow every intervening Tuesday.
“In the course of her voyages to and from Stornoway, the Ben-Nevis will call at Greenock, Lochgilphead, Easdale, Oban, Lochdon, Aros, Lochaline, Tobermory, Arisaig, Isle Oronsay, Kyleakin, Broadford, and Portree. The hours of sailing from Glasgow will be seen on the notice boards.
“Goods for Stornoway and all the intermediate ports and places may be forwarded to the Subsciber who will inform as to other particulars. Archd. M‘Eachern, Glasgow June 2nd, 1828.”
While a regular service was a considerable boost to the local population, it was expensive, and there was a focus on the tourist trade as interest in the more remote parts of the British Isles expanded.
“Conveyance to Stornoway
“The Ben-nevis steam boat will leave the Broomielaw on Wednesday the 24th June, at 7 o’clock morning, with goods and passengers for Stornoway; and leaves Stornoway for Glasgow on the following Wednesday, calling at all the intermediate places going and returning.
“This route has been acknowledged by several travellers to be superior in point of extent and variety of scenery to any that has hitherto been visited in the Highlands, and accordingly is recommended as a delightful and romantic pleasure trip.
“Goods for the Ben-nevis may be forwarded to the subscriber, Archibald M‘Eachern, Agent, No. 9 Jamaica Street, Glasgow 19th June, 1829”
The service was sporadic, and the sailing packets to Stornoway continued to provide the most reliable means communications. When Sir James Matheson purchased the Island of Lewis in 1844, he set about improvements and in 1846 had the Mary Jane built by Messrs Tod & MacGregor to provide a weekly service to Stornoway. The Mary Jane was 150 ft long and the service to Stornoway from the Clyde was now routed by the Mull of Kintyre.
“The new steamer Mary Jane.—On Saturday last this fine new iron steamer, built by Messrs Tod and Macgregor, for Mr Matheson of Aehany, M.P. (for the trade betwixt Glasgow and Stornoway), to accommodate the tenants of that excellent and publie spirited gentleman in his island of Lews, made an experimental trip to Garelochhead. The day was fine, and the Mary Jane proved herself to be a capital sailer, and altogether a most comfortable vessel. She is about 280 tons burden, and 110 horse power, and fitted up with berths, &c., in the usual elegant style of the Clyde steamers. There was a select party of ladies and gentlemen on board, and their enjoyment was kept up by the splendour of the scenery in the Loch, and afterwards a scramble amongst the hills which compose “the Duke’s Bowling Green.” The comfort of the party was in no ways interrupted afterwards by an unostentatious, but very pleasant repast, which was partaken of on deck, amidst the charming scenery of the locality—Captain Hudson, the commander of the vessel, in the chair, and Mr Macgregor, croupier. The mountains re-echoed with the toast of our beloved Queen, and the health of the honourable owner of the vessel was given and drank with a fervour which proved that all present considered him not in the light of one who would hide his wealth in hedge, but as a real and genuine benefactor to his country. Then came “Success to the Mary Jane,” with the healths of “Messrs Tod and Macgregor, the spirited builders,” “Captain Hudson.” The Captain replied in strains worthy of the occasion. By seven o’clock the Mary Jane was again safely moored at the Broomielaw quay—and the company had departed—all well.—Glasgow Constitutional”—Inverness Courier, June 10, 1846
“Stornoway, June 8—Considerable sensation was excited in Stornoway on the evening of Thursday last, by the arrival of the Mary Jane, iron steamer, Captain Hudson. Large crowds assembled on the beach, and evinced their delight at seeing a steamer intended to ply regularly between Glasgow and this place. She left Glasgow at six o’clock p.m., and arrived here about ten o’clock the following evening, performing the voyage in twenty-eight hours. Great credit is due to our public-spirited proprietor for having conferred such an inestimable boon upon the inhabitants the Lews; and we trust that his good intentions will be duly appreciated the public.”—Inverness Courier, June 17, 1846
“Stornoway, 18th June 1846.— Our new iron steamer, Mary Jane, made her first trip from the last week, making the passage from Greenock to Stornoway, including stoppage at Portree, in 26½ hours, thus proving herself to be a quick sailer. A party of ladies and gentlemen from Stornoway had a pleasure trip in her on Monday last. The day being fine, all were highly pleased with the excursion. The steamer is commanded by Captain R. H. Hudson, a gentleman who commanded a boat in the Clyde for some time, and who, by his amiable manners and kind disposition to passengers, has already won for himself much esteem.”—Inverness Courier, June 24, 1846
Glasgow Herald, June 22, 1846
Inverness Courier, June 6, 1848
A larger vessel, Marquis of Stafford was added to the service in 1849. Built by Messrs John Reid & Co., of Port Glasgow, she was 173 feet long and aided the expansion of the service to the west coast of Sutherland.
Inverness Courier, January 18, 1849
The Mary Jane was sold in 1851, the same year in which Messrs David Hutcheson & Co. came into being, taking over the west highland service of Messrs G. & J. Burns. Over the next two decades, a number of vessels were employed including the Clansman and Dolphin.
Inverness Courier, July 17, 1856
The introduction of the swift steamer service on the Clyde combined with transit through the Crinan Canal by trackboat and subsequently the Linnet, and the sailing from Crinan to Oban meant that much of the tourist traffic was diverted from the steamboats that sailed round the Mull of Kintyre. Nevertheless the “all-the-way” route had its adherents and retained importance for the transport of goods that would be unloaded and uploaded and small ports and calling places around the highlands and islands.
Greenock Advertiser, March 7, 1861
Greenock Advertiser, December 5, 1861
Greenock Advertiser, April 21, 1863
By the mid-1860s, the paddle steamer Clansman and the single-screw steamer Clydesdale were operating on the Stornoway route. But it is to a later period that this article attends.
Glasgow Herald, June 24, 1867
Greenock Advertiser, October 29, 1868
The paddle steamer Clansman, a regular on the Stornoway service, met with an accident of the south end of the Kintyre peninsula on her way back to the Clyde in the summer of 1869.
“Accident to the steamer Clansman.—About seven o’clock yesterday morning, the steamer Clansman, belonging to Messrs. David Hutcheson & Co. of this city, went ashore on Sheep Island, a reef of rocks the west of Sanda, the island at tbo south-east of the Mull Cantyre. The vessel, which was her passage from Stornoway to Glasgow at the time, had upwards of 100 passengers on board, all of whom were safely landed on Sanda Island. In the course of the forenoon intelligence of the accident was forwarded to Campbeltown, and somewhat later in the day most the passengers were conveyed thither from Sanda by the Celt; a screw steamer which plies between Glasgow and Islay. Some doubt appears to exist to the probability of saving the Clansman and her cargo, the larger part of which is composed of wool and herrings, her stem being sunk in deep water, while her bow is firmly embedded on the reef forming Sheep Island. Her captain and crew, however, aided the tug Flying Dutchman, which was sent yesterday from Greenock to their assistance, are making every effort to accomplish her release. A dense fog, which had prevailed for a few days over the west coast, was probably to some degree the cause of the mishap. No interruption, it may be added, will be caused by the accident, to the Messrs. Hutcheson’s Highland trade.
“The steamer Celt arrived this forenoon at Greenock, having on board the Clansman’s passengers. Our Greenock corresponded intimates that it is feared that the Clansman will not be got off the reef on which she has grounded.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, July 22, 1869
The steamer became a total loss and required Messrs Hutcheson to have a replacement built.
“The Clansman. —Yesterday, a telegram was received from Mr Weild, Campbeltown, by Mr M‘Gregor, Underwriters’ Room, Glasgow, stating that the steamer Clansman, which went ashore on Sanda Island during a dense fog, has parted abaft the foremast.”—Greenock Telegraph, July 31, 1869
“The Steamer Clansman.—Yesterday Mr Wylde, the underwriters’ agent, and the mate of the steamer Clansman, arrived from Campbeltown in the steamer Kintyre. Mr Anderson, who has been associated with Mr Wylde in superintending the saving of the wreck, met with an accident by the breaking of the apparatus used in getting out the cargo, has been confined to bed at Campbeltown, and was unable to accompany them home. The Clansman has parted in three pieces, and a considerable quantity of cargo has gone down with her, the recovery of which must be left with the divers. Captain Sinclair still remains by the wreck.”—Greenock Telegraph, August 4, 1869
The following spring, the new Clansman was launched. The timing coincided with the opening of the Dingwall and Skye Railway terminus at Strome Ferry adding a new impetus to the development of the west highlands.
“Launch of the Clansman. Yesterday there was launched from the shipyard Messrs James & George Thomson, Govan, a handsome iron screw steamer for the West Highland line of Messrs David Hutcheson & Co. She was named the Clansman by Master David Hope MacBrayne, son of Mr David Macßrayne, one of the owners. The Clansman is 750 tons measurement. She will be elegantly fitted for 50 first-class passengers, and will be supplied by the builders with compound surface condensing engines of 150 horse power. The Clansman is the fourteenth steamer built by Messrs J. & G. Thomson for Messrs Hutcheson & Co., and will be commanded by Capt. Sinclair, of the former steamer of the same name. Messrs Thomson have presently on hand to order steam tonnage amounting to upwards of 13,500 tons.”—Greenock Telegraph, April 29, 1870
“New Steamer Clansman.—The handsome new screw-steamer Clansman, built by Messrs J. & G. Thomson, for Messrs D. Hutcheson Co.’s line of North Highland steamers, passed over to the Gareloch yesterday to adjust her compasses, and thence proceeded down the river on a trial trip. The Clansman will take the station on Thursday, and keep up a biweekly communication with the North. She is commanded by Captain Sinclair, a favourite on this route.”—Glasgow Evening Post, June 22, 1870
Clansman (McIsaac and Riddle)
Greenock Advertiser, June 30, 1870
The sailings were shared with the steamer Clydesdale.
Oban in the 1870s with Clydesdale (Valentine)
“The s.s. Clydesdale.—The Glasgow and West Highland steamer Clydesdale, belonging Messrs Hutcheson it Co., was on Saturday hauled on Messrs Barclay, Curie Co.’s slip. She is to receive a most extensive overhaul, including a new spar deck from the stem to the after hold. This addition is for the greater comfort of the steerage passengers, the spar deck in the new sister steamer the Clansman having been found a most decided improvement. The twice a week sailing to and from the North has been discontinued, and the Clansman will keep up a weekly sailing until the Clydesdale is ready to take the station.”—Greenock Advertiser, November 29, 1870
Sailing the route was not without incident. Indeed it is remarkable to read of the mishaps, large and small, that the steamships encountered on the dangerous rocky and stormy coasts.
“The Steamer Clansman. —This new steamer, which has made her first voyage to the West Highland this season, did not arrive in Glasgow till one o’clock on Thursday morning. In consequence of having got aground at Portree on Monday night, she was unable to leave that place till half-past 6, fully two hours behind time. She had also to go up Loch Hourn—a distance of 20 miles—to ship wool; and was much retarded at Tobermory on Tuesday night by a strong SE wind and heavy rain. She brought a very heavy cargo of fish, lobsters, whelks, and wool.”—Greenock Advertiser, April 15, 1871
Custom House Quay, Greenock in the 1870s with Clansman and Islay astern (Valentine)
Custom House Quay, Greenock in the 1870s with Clansman (Valentine)
Glasgow Herald, January 8, 1872
Greenock Advertiser, June 12, 1873
Mail steamer at Strome Ferry (Washington Wilson)
In 1880, the railway reached Oban, allowing much easier tourist access to the outer isles with sailings from that port. The long route round the Mull of Kintyre remained popular with tourists who enjoyed the more leisurely to-ing and fro-ing, calling at out of the way places where cargo was delivered or uplifted.
After Messrs David MacBrayne took over the service, a new steamer was ordered to sail in consort with the Clansman.
“Launch at Clydebank.—On Thursday Messrs James & George Thomson launched from their yard at Clydebank a finely-modelled screw-steamer, built to the order of Mr David MacBrayne, 119 Hope Street, Glasgow, consort to the Clansman and Clydesdale, so long known in the Stornoway trade. The ceremony of naming her the Claymore was gracefully performed by Miss Annie Thomson of Mountblow. She has a complete awning deck similar to s.s Clansman, her dimensions being: —Length, 225 feet; beam, 29½ feet; depth, 15 feet, and from her fine lines is expected to sail very fast. She will be supplied with compound engines by her builders, and as she is fitted with every improvement which experience can suggest, both for the comfort of passengers and working of cargo, cannot fail to add to the reputation of her enterprising owner. The Claymore completes 18,500 tons launched by Messrs Thomson within the last six months.”—Greenock Telegraph, July 16, 1881
There was a considerable delay between her launch and entering service.
“Trial trip of the Claymore.— On Saturday the new screw steamer Claymore, recently built by Messrs James and George Thomson, for the Clyde and West Highland tourist traffic conducted by Mr David Macbrayne, went down the Firth to go through her official speed trials. The guaranteed speed of the Claymore was be 13¼ knots, but on the measured mile on Saturday the mean speed attained was 14¼ knots, or one knot in excess. During the trials there was experimented with for the first time a new and very ingenious instrument which has lately been devised for taking and recording the speeds of ships. The object of the instrument is to obviate the necessity for making progressive speed trials on the measured mile. The principle of the method is to measure the time that the ship takes to pass a floating object, and from that the speed can be directly obtained. That time is so short that the measurement of it is a very delicate operation. On Saturday, however, it was very successfully performed by the instrument, the results obtained by the method corresponding very closely with those derived in the usual way. The complete use of the instrument and the necessary deck observations can be overtaken by four persons.”—Greenock Telegraph, October 3, 1881
Claymore (McIsaac and Riddle)
The MacBrayne steamers featured in the crofter agitation in Skye.
“The land agitation in Skye.— The Clansman, steamer, passed Oban yesterday with 50 policemen board for Skye. The men were fully armed and equipped with boats for crossing the lochs and arms of the sea. Two companies of soldiers have left Fort Augustus for Skye. The excitement all over the West Highlands is unprecedented.”—Aberdeen Press and Journal, April 19, 1882
Difficulties with breakdowns were fortunately quite rare but involved considerable inconvenience.
“Breakdown of a highland steamer.—The steamer Claymore, which left Portree at four o’clock yesterday morning, broke down at Kylerhea. The piston rod suddenly gave way a dangerous part of the kyle. The anchor was immediately dropped, but did not hold till the steamer got clear of the current. There was no farther damage. The Glencoe, from Portree, proceeded to her assistance, and brought her to safe anchorage. The passengers and perishable goods were taken to Strome Ferry in time for the train to the south. The Claymore will have to be towed to Glasgow.”—Edinburgh Evening News, November 7, 1883
Inverness Courier, January 31, 1885
Clansman at Stornoway
More common on the route were brief strandings and encounters with rocks when the visibility was poor.
“The Clansman steamer ashore.—Highland mail steamer Clansman, owned by Messrs MacBrayne and Co., Glasgow, has gone ashore near Broadford, Skye. Three steamers left Glasgow yesterday to take off passengers, most of whom were tourists. The Clansman was her way to Stornoway, and the coast where struck was wild and exposed. No one was injured.”—Western Daily Press, August 16, 1888
“The stranded steamer Clansman.—Full particulars have now been received regarding the stranding of the steamer Clansman near Broadford, Skye, on Tuesday night. From inquiries made at Mr Macbrayne’s office in Glasgow yesterday afternoon, it appears that the Clansman went stem on to the reef. There being more water in the fore-hold yesterday, the underwriters sent on the powerful pumps of the Salvage Company from Ardrossan to assist in clearing the vessel. Unfortunately the tides are very low in the Sound just now, but there will be higher water on Saturday, when it is hoped that the efforts to get the Clansman off will be successful. Meantime the cargo is being lightened. The passengers have all been taken on to their destinations by Mr MacBrayre’s other steamers which ply in that part of the Western Highlands. No intelligence has yet been received to account for the stranding of the vessel. Aitchison, the first mate of the Clansman, who was in charge of her at the time, has been thirty years in the same service, and is therefore familiar with the route over which he has sailed so frequently. Occurring as it does in the midst of the tourist season, the accident is extremely unfortunate, but beyond the inconvenience to the passengers who are travelling this week, there will be no further derangement of the service. The Clydesdale, which was lying in reserve in the Queen’s Dock, will take the Clansman’s place, and sail, from Glasgow on Monday.
“The scene on deck. When the steamer struck, there was no wind or moon, but the stars were clearly seen. About half past eleven o’clock the passengers, who were at mostly in bed, were startled by a violent shock at the bow, rapidly followed by two others, which caused the vessel to shake and heel from stem to stern, The scene on deck at once became one of great excitement, terrified ladies and gentlemen rushing up half dressed, all pouring forth hurried inquiries, and some ladies hysterically shrieking. The captain was speedily on deck, and the engines were reversed, but this failed to move the vessel. A cry arose for the boats, but as the captain found that the vessel was making no water he declared that the passengers would be safer on board than ashore. As they seemed eager to get ashore, however, he ordered the boats out. Two were filled with ladies and children, with orders to land on the nearest point and return. This they did with the greatest difficulty, owing to the darkness and the rocks, and the result was that the rescued passengers had to stumble over two miles of bog and rocks to Broadford. The two boats then returned, and with others from the Clansman and Broadford, conveyed the remainder of the passengers to Broadford, the majority of whom, had to leave their baggage on the Clansman till later in the day, and pass the night as best they could on chairs at an overcrowded hotel and in private homes. The majority of the passengers were taken to Portree by the Lochiel on Wednesday evening. Painful stories are told of the sufferings of the passengers, one family having suffered most serious privation, and many were unable to receive refreshments until the afternoon. Some sympathy is expressed for the mate, who had a similar accident about the same place before. The Clansman is well-known and popular among tourists with whom she was always crowded during the summer months. She is a screw steamer of 800 tons gross, and was built in 1870 by Messrs J. &. G. Thomson, Clydebank, who also supplied her engines. Her measurements are—211 feet long 27 feet broad, and 13 feet deep.”—Aberdeen Press and Journal, August 17, 1888
“Breakdown of the steamer Clansman.—The steamer Clansman broke down while leaving Tobermory yesterday afternoon on her weekly passage from Glasgow to Stornoway, and was brought to anchor in the bay. The damaged part the engines was sent on by the s.s. Fingal to Oban, to be conveyed by special train to Glasgow for repairs. It will several days before the Clansman will able to resume her journey. It is intended to send passengers to Stornoway and intermediate ports per s.s. Easdale as soon as her cargo of coals is discharged.”—GT January 21, 1893
In 1897, the Skye railway was extended from Strome Ferry to Kyle of Lochalsh, a much more convenient location. What follows here is a compendium of scenes involving the Clansman and Claymore at various ports of call, large and small, around the western highlands and islands.
Clansman on the Clyde (Adamson)
Clansman off Eigg
Clansman at Kyle of Lochalsh in 1901 (Valentine)
Clansman at Culag Hotel, Lochinver
Map of steamer routes to the Outer Hebrides in 1913
Claymore coming down the River Clyde (Robertson Glasgow)
Claymore on the Firth of Clyde (Adamson)
Claymore at Oban
Claymore at Oban in 1905 (Valentine)
Claymore at Armadale in Skye
Claymore at Portree
Claymore at Gairloch
Claymore at Diabaig on Loch Torridon
Claymore at Ullapool in 1893 (Valentine)
Claymore at Ullapool in 1925 (Valentine)
Claymore at Ullapool in 1925 (Valentine)
Claymore at Badcall Bay
“Stranding of the Clansman.—Excitement Among Passengers.—Thursday night.—The Clansman steamer struck a rock at Badcall, Sutherland, this morning, and had to be beached, where she still lies, waiting assistance from Glasgow. The passengers are hanging about, hoping to be taken on by another steamer. If such does not turn up, however, they may have to go overland by Lairg. The cargo of the Clansman was got up before there was much damage done. The engine-room and stoke-holes were full at high tide, but the saloon was quite dry. The passengers are waiting for information from Mr Macbrayne as to how to get away from the Scourie district.”—Ross-shire Journal, April 1, 1898
“The stranding of the steamer Clansman.—As reported in yesterday’s Telegraph, Mr David Macbrayne’s West Highland steamer Clansman is ashore on the west coast of Sutherland. The vessel struck rock while entering Badcall on Wednesday night, and remained fast. A considerable depth of water in the engine room shows that the hull has been damaged. No anxiety, however, is felt to the ultimate safety of the vessel, she lies in a sheltered position.
“The Glasgow steamer Rob Roy took on board a steam engine and pumps at James Watt Dock, Greenock, last night, and proceeded with them to the Clansman, ashore at Badcall, Sutherlandshire.”—Greenock Telegraph, April 2, 1898
A year later it was Claymore’s turn.
“Accident to the steamer Claymore.—Early on Tuesday morning Mr M‘Brayne’s steamer Claymore struck a sunken rock after leaving Loch Torridon. The night was very dark when the accident occurred, heavy showers of rain falling at the time. The steamer passed Kyleakin on Tuesday forenoon, but it was found that she would unable to proceed to Glasgow owing to the amount of damage done to her bow about five feet above the water line. She was also making water. There were a number passengers on board.”—Greenock Telegraph, April 5, 1899
Mallaig was reached by the West Highland Railway in 1901 and became an important staging point for services to the western isles.
Greenock Telegraph, July 2, 1900
A new vessel was built for the Stornaway service by Messrs A. & J. Inglis of Pointhouse and launched at the end of January, 1903. The Sheila was a good sea boat and was well equipped to attract passengers on the year-round sailings from Kyle of Lochalsh. She quickly became a favorite on the route.
Sheila at Kyle of Lochalsh
As the new century progressed, Messrs MacBrayne began to anticipate replacing the Clansman. They went to the Ayr shipyard of the Ayr Steam Shipping Co., for their new tonnage, Chieftain.
“Launch of steamer at Ayr.—To be engined at Port Glasgow.—Ayr Saturday.—There was launched today from the Ayr yard of the Ayr Steam Shipping Company of Troon and Ayr, the handsomely modelled steel screw and cargo steamer Chieftain, to the order of Messrs David Macßrayne, Ltd., for their West Highland service. The dimensions of the vessel are: 260 feet in length, 33 feet breadth, moulded, and 20 feet depth, moulded. She is fitted with the most up-to-date electric appliances for rapid handling of cargo.
“Triple-expansion engines, constructed by the Clyde Shipbuilding and Engineering Co., Ltd., will be put on board at their works at Port-Glasgow, where the new steamer will be towed in a day or two.”—Greenock Telegraph, May 13, 1907
“Messrs Macbrayne’s new steamer, Chieftain, which has been fitting out in Port-Glasgow Harbour, left yesterday for Troon.”—Greenock Telegraph, June 1, 1907
“The screw steamer Chieftain, the latest addition the fleet of Messrs David MacBrayne (Limited), has completed fitting out, and on Saturday she will enter upon her service. Sailing from Glasgow each Saturday forenoon the Chieftain will follow a route to Oban. Tobermory. and Lochs Scavaig, Hourn, Duich, Torridon, etc., returning via the Sound of Sleat or West of Skye, and arriving back in Glasgow on Friday morning. The Chieftain, which will be carrying out trials today, was built the Ailsa Company, Ayr, and engined by the Clyde Shipbuilding and Engineering Company, Port-Glasgow. She has handsome internal appointments and ample accommodation for passengers on the main, upper, and promenade decks.”— Greenock Telegraph, July 17, 1907
Scotsman, July 19, 1907
Chieftain at Oban (Valentine)
Chieftain in Oban Bay
Chieftain at Oban with Grenadier and Chevalier
Chieftain at Badentarbat at the mouth of Loch Broom
The new addition was a disappointment.
“Dispute over a shipbuilding contract.—Clyde firms at law.—The records were closed in the Court Session, Edinburgh, yesterday in counter-actions between the Ailsa Shipbuilding Company, Troon and Ayr, and D. MacBrayne, Limited, shipowners, Glasgow.
“The Ailsa Shipbuilding Company sue Messrs MacBrayne for five sums, amounting in all to about £3,600, being the balance of the price of the steel screw steamer Chieftain, and extras executed on the vessel. The contract price was £28,080. The company had delivered the ship to Messrs MacBrayne, and had rendered their account for the balance, but they declined or delayed payment.
“In the counter-action Messrs MacBrayne sue for £6,000 damages for alleged breach of contract, in respect that at her trial the Chieftain failed to accomplish the contracted speed of 60 knots in four hours.”—Greenock Telegraph, June 3, 1909
The case was settled in March 1910 with the builders receiving a sum to be calculated but not exceeding £1650, and Messrs MacBrayne £1500. The basis of the MacBrayne case was that as a 14½ knot ship, she could not obtain a special certificate for sailing to Oban in under 10 hours and so had to be degraded from a tourist yacht to a cargo carrier, a rather specious argument since there was no attempt to obtain the certification.
The Clansman was sold and broken up after an arduous life of almost 40 years.
“The Clansman, a well-known steamer on the West Highland route, has been purchased by English buyers for a sum under £2,000. The steamer, which is of 619 tons gross, was built by J. & G. Thomson in 1870.”—Greenock Telegraph, July 26, 1909
The following year, Claymore was involved in a serious accident. It was touch and go as to whether she could be salved.
“Steamer goes on the rocks. Early on Saturday morning Messrs MacBrayne’s steamer Claymore, during a heavy snowstorm, struck the rocks of Pabbay, Broadford, Skyse, and remained there until four o’clock in the afternoon, when she was towed off by the mail steamer Sheila, which was on her way to Stornoway. With the assistance of the steamer Glencoe the Claymore was brought alongside Broadford Pier. The Claymore is considerably damaged, her after hold and engine-room being full of water.”—Glasgow Herald, January 24, 1910.
“Glasgow, Jan. 24, 10 43 a. m.—Claymore: The Glasgow Salvage Association’s officer Captain Burns left Greenock Saturday midnight with tug Flying Swallow, two pumps, diving gear and men for Claymore, ashore Pabay Island, near Broadford, Skye January 24
“Claymore: The following is a telegram received by Glasgow Salvage Association from Cantain Burns this afternoon:—Claymore at low water little less than half of vessel submerged. Diver reports her lying on soft sand from bow to 20 feet from stern which is over-hung and diver can walk under her, cannot find any fractured plates but many are indented and number rivets loose port side of bottom all above water to starboard strake, no plates broken but a number slightly buckled, apparently no frames broken. All hatches and openings can be closed up and vessel pumped out and uprighted after heavy portion of cargo now all on starboard side has been salved, probable time three weeks, otherwise get no cure offer on percentage salved value. If you instruct me begin salvage must have lighter to take pumps from tug and send tug Greenock cost salvage and repairs will be heavy. Waiting instructions.—Burns. Under authority from underwriters Captain Burns has been instructed to proceed with salvage operations. January 25
“Claymore.—lnverness, Jan. 28.—The master of the steamer Claymore, of and from Glasgow for Stornoway, wirh meal, flour, &c., reports that the vessel grounded on the NE point of Pabba island, at 6.33 a.m., Jan. 22, and made water in the engine room and afterhold. At 4 p.m. she was towed off and it was intended to beach her on the east side of Broadford Pier, but the tow-rope parted and the Claymore grounded on the SW corner of the pier and gradually listed over. January 29
“Stranding of the Claymore.—The official inquiry into the circumstances connected with the damage sustained by the steamer Claymore, of Glasgow, through stranding on the north-east end of Pabbay Island, west coast of Scotland, on Jan. 22, is fixed for March 16 at Glasgow. March 3
“Stranding of the Claymore.—Chief Officer blamed.—The judgment of the Court of Inquiry held at Glasgow into the circumstances attending the stranding of the steamer Claymore, of Glasgow, on a reef off the north-east coast of Paba Island, West of Scotland, on Jan. 22, was delivered yesterday. The Court found that the master’s order, given at about 6 21 a.m. on that day, to keep the course then set of N.W. by W. for 18 minutes, was not carried out by the chief officer, and that the cause of the stranding was the alteration prematurely made by him of that course. The serious damage to the steamship was caused by the wrongful act of the chief officer, Donald M‘Milian, alone, and the Court suspended his certificate for the period of four months. The Court added that it restricted the term of suspension because of the frank admission by the chief officer that he alone was to blame. The Claymore was a screw steamer of 399 registered tonnage, and belonged to Messrs. David MacBrayne (Limited), Glasgow. Her crew numbered 31 hands, and there were 14 passengers on board at the time of the stranding. March 18”—Lloyd’s List, 1910
In the following year, it was Chieftain that ran into difficulties
“Passenger steamer on a rock. West highland tourists’ plight. Messrs M‘Brayne’s West Highland steamer Chieftain, on her inward voyage on Thursday night from Stornoway to Glasgow, struck a rock between the islands of Rona and Raasay. She had on board upwards of 130 tourists, who were doing the well-known West Coast trip. The night was extremely dark, and rain fell heavily after a severe thunderstorm that had passed over Skye and the western seaboard. The sea was not rough, but in the darkness the vessel got out of her course, and, while going at half speed, struck the rock and remained fast on a large ledge. At the time the musical members of the ship’s party were giving a concert in the cabin, where the passengers were assembled, and much alarm was occasioned by the shock to the steamer and the grating noise as she ran on to the rocky ledge. There was great excitement, but no panic, and the passengers went quietly on deck, where they learned what had happened. The ship heeded over, and the position looked serious. Life belts were served out, but fortunately their use was not necessary. The vessel settled on the rock, and the boats were lowered. Owing to the darkness of the night and the awkward position of the ship, great difficulty was experienced in lowering the passengers into the boats. However, this was accomplished without mishap. All were safely landed on the neighbouring island, where they remained exposed to the heavy rain until daybreak, when at high tide the vessel floated off. The passengers, drenched and fatigued, were taken aboard, and as it appeared that the vessel had suffered no serious damage, the voyage was resumed. On reaching Portree the passengers rushed to the Post Office to advise friends. They spoke in terms of warm commendation of the efforts of the officers and crew of the ship in rendering them every assistance possible.”—Scotsman August 26, 1911
“All night on a rock.—MacBrayne’s West Highland steamer Chieftain, on her return voyage from Stornoway to Glasgow on Thursday night last week, struck a rock between the Islands of Rona and Raasay, lying off the east coast of Skye. The night was exceedingly dark, with heavy rain falling, and the second officer, who was in charge, must nave lost his bearings. There were upwards of 130 cabin passengers on board, and at the time of the accident they were assembled in the cabin, where a concert was being given by musical members of the party. On the ship striking the rock she remained fast, and immediately began to heel over. The passengers, who were much alarmed, were landed with difficulty on an island nearby, and remained exposed to wind and rain till daylight, when at full tide the steamer floated off, and the passengers were taken aboard terribly drenched and fatigued. The damage to the Chieftain was not serious, and the journey to Glasgow was resumed.”—Forfar Advertiser, September 1, 1911
Chieftain again featured in the press in 1914 when she caught fire in Glasgow Harbour.
“Fire in Glasgow Harbour.—West Highland steamer seriously damaged.—The steamship Chieftain, one of the West Highland fleet of Messrs D. Macbrayne (Limited ), was seriously damaged by fire yesterday afternoon in Glasgow Harbour. The vessel, which was temporarily laid up, was moored in midstream off Lanoefield Quay. Shortly before four o’clock she was seen to be on fire, and the Fire Brigade being summoned, detachments were dispatched from the Central and Western Divisions. Owing to the position of the vessel, and no boats being readily available, it was some time before the firemen could get aboard. Meanwhile one of the Clyde ferry boats was secured to act as a fire engine, but much time was lost in getting the hose of the Fire Brigade to fit on to the appliances of the ferry. A second ferry boat arrived to render assistance, but, as she carried neither pump nor hose, she was of little use. Eventually two lines of hose were got to work from the first ferry boat, and in the course of an hour the firemen had the outbreak under control. The fire appeared to have commenced in the engine room, spreading thence to the staterooms, stores, and dining room. These apartments were practically gutted.
“Many of the hull plates were buckled by the intense heat, and the total damage is estimated at £7000.
“The Chieftain is the largest of Messrs Macbrayne’s fleet, was a finely fitted vessel and was built seven years ago by the Ailsa Shipbuilding Company (Limited.)”—Scotsman, November 24, 1914
After the first world war, the unfortunate Chieftain, never a favorite, was sold.
“New North steamer.—The steamer Chieftain (1088 tons gross), built 1907, has been purchased by the North of Scotland and Orkney and Shetland Steam Navigation Co., Ltd., from Messrs Macbrayne, Glasgow.”—Aberdeen Press and Journal, July 3, 1919
The popular Sheila was lost in January 1927.
“Highland Steamer wrecked. Ross-shire Accident. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Tuesday. The West Coast mail steamer Sheila, which has been the trip between Stornoway and Lochaish for many years, was abandoned this morning during a heavy north-easterly gale.
“The Sheila grounded near Canig, Applecross, on Rona, about four o’clock on the morning of Jauuary 1, when returning to Kyle from Stornoway. The passengers and mails were landed safely. The crew remained on board and a vessel stood by the Sheila, which is now flooded and badly damaged.
“Passengers Unable to Communicate with Friends. Tuesday. One of the passengers on the Sheila stranded near Applecross, who arrived home to-day was Councillor John Mair, Victoria Street, Portknockie.
“In an interview Councillor Mair said the vessel left Stomoway at 1.30 on Saturday morning. He had just gone below about six o’clock when passengers were alarmed by a crash as the vessel ran ashore.
“Nothing could be done in the darkness. They did not know exactly where they were, and daylight was awaited with trepidation, the vessel was leaking. When morning broke two hours afterwards, they found they were fast on a beach strewn with boulders, while immediately behind the shoreland rose steeply to a height of 50 feet. Looking seaward, they found they had just missed a chain of partially submerged rocks.
“As the steamer lay at an angle of 45 degrees, the port lifeboat was launched, the half-dozen passengers, with some of the crew and the mails, were put into her in case of eventualities. After two hours they returned to the steamer and had breakfast. The passengers were landed at one o’clock in the afternoon, while the crew stood by the vessel to see what they could do towards getting her afloat.
“Meantime the passengers made their way to the nearest habitation, which proved to be the farmhouse of Reaulay Arrina, tenanted by Mr Michael Macrae, who made them welcome till four o’clock the following day, when a relief steamer, the Plover, arrived from Gairloch and took the passengers to Kyle, which they reached at an early hour yesterday morning. From that point the passengers continued their journey by rail.
“They were unable to communicate with the outside world while at the farmhouse, as the nearest Post Office was 15 miles away.
“The Sheila is one of the fleet of West Highland steamers belonging David MacBrayne, Ltd., Glasgow. She hag a gross tonnage of 256 and net tonnage of 97.”—Aberdeen Press and Journal, January 5, 1927
The loss of the Sheila was one of a series of unfortunate accidents that had taken place for Messrs MacBrayne. The consequent financial difficulties lead to a take-over by Coast Lines and the formation of a new company, David MacBrayne (1928) Ltd., that received financial capital from the Ministry of Transport to construct new tonnage for the western isles services. Sheila was replaced by one of Coast Lines ships, Denbigh Coast, renamed Lochdunvegan. A new steamer, Lochness, was added for the Kyle to Stornoway service. She was the first of five new vessels and the only one that retained steam propulsion. The others were motor vessels.
“West highland steamers—launch of Lochness—The first of five new oil-burning steamers to be built to the order of David MaeBrayne (1928) (Limited) for service in the West Highlands and Islands was launched yesterday at the Govan yard of Harland & Wolff (Limited.) The new steamer, the Lochness, was named by Mrs H. T. Leith, wife of the general manager of Messrs MacBrayne. A twin-screw vessel, the Lochness will, it is expected, be ready for service on the Mallaig-Kyle of Lochalsh and Stornoway route some time this month. She has been constructed to carry 428 passengers, and has a cruising speed of about 14 knots. Special attention has been given to the comfort and convenience of the passenger accommodation. Mr H. T. Leith, in acknowledging the toast of the new ship and the owners at a luncheon following the launch, said the ceremony saw the commencement of a building programme by his Company that would have an important bearing on the future of the far-flung islands of the Hebrides. Tho Lochness, which would take up the Stornoway mail service early in July, was a great advance on previous mail steamers operating in Highland waters , and he hoped every support would be given to the service by traders and travellers alike, to justify the enterprise shown by the new Company in providing so fine a vessel.”—Scotsman June 7, 1929
“Five new steamers—For the West Highland Services. Big changes in the passenger and cargo services between Glasgow and the West Highlands and Islands will be brought nearer by the launch to-morrow by Messrs Harland and Wolff, Govan, of the steamer Lochness, which has been built for Messrs David MacBrayne (1928), Ltd. Another steamer is in course construction for the company, to be followed by three more vessels, making a total of five within the next twelve months. The new Steamers, which will be of the cross-Channel type, and luxuriously equipped, will bring the beauty spots of the Western seaboard within easy access Glasgow, helping to solve the holiday problem for many Glaswegians, and, it anticipated, resulting in considerable development for the West Highlands as a holiday haunt. Along with the new facilities, passengers will enjoy lower fares. The Lochness, with accommodation for 428 passengers, will be on the Glasgow, Stornoway, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Mallaig service. As the other new steamers come into service, they will serve Eigg, Rum, Lochboisdale, Oban, Tobermory, Tiree, and other points.”—Aberdeen Press & Journal, June 5, 1929
Lochness on her maiden voyage at Stornoway (newspaper clipping)
“New Stornoway steamer. Kyle, Friday. The new steamer Lochness made its initial trip from Stornoway to Kyle to-day, and had an excellent crossing, catching the 6.10 a.m. connection, for the south. Provost Bain, Stornoway, was on board travelling to London.”—Aberdeen Press & Journal, August 3, 1929
Lochness when new with grey hull
Lochness when new with grey hull
It was not long before the new steamer ran into difficulties,
“Mail steamer strikes rock.—Beached at Stornoway—The mail steamer Lochness was leaving Stornoway Harbour for Kyle at 11 o’clock last night during a severe westerly gale, when she struck a sunken rock off Goat Island. She sustained some damage on the port side, and, as she was making water in the hold, she returned and beached on the east side of No. 1 pier. She is being inspected at low tide to-day. The steamer Clydesdale is taking the Lochness’s run to-night.”—Dundee Evening Telegraph, January 2, 1930
“Stornoway mishap.—Mail Steamer Strikes Submerged Rock. (from Our Own Correspondent.) . Stornoway, Thursday. While the mail steamer Lochness was leaving Stornoway Harbour for Kyle late last night, during a severe westerly gale, she struck a sunken rock off Goat Island, and sustained some damage on the port side. The wind, which had been freshening steadily during the day, veered to the east after nightfall, and, before the steamer’s time of sailing, was blowing a full gale. Prompt on time, however, the Lochness, despite the storm, left the pier and headed for The Minch. It appears that a trawler, anchored in an awkward position in the fairway, forced the Lochness to take a course nearer than usual to Goat Island, which forms a natural breakwater to the harbour.
“Submerged Rock.—The steamer had only proceeded a few yards when it struck a submerged rock. Fortunately it was not going at any speed and did not remain fast. The vessel, however, was making a considerable amount of water, and the captain decided to return to the pier he had just left, and later he manoevred the Lochness to a berth where she could be beached for inspection at ebb tide. The amount of damage is not yet known. A portion of mails, which were unusually light, were soaked with sea water and had to be returned to Stornoway Post Office. The remainder was transferred to a drifter which was proceeding to Kyle. The steamer Clydesdale is expected here to-night to convey passengers and mails to the mainland.”—Aberdeen Press & Journal, January 3,1930
The Claymore was withdrawn and sold to breakers on the Forth. There was a great sense of loss with the demise of the ship that had served the western isles well for half a century.
“The old Claymore beached.—On Saturday afternoon the Western Isles packet steamer Claymore was successfully beached at Carriden, near Bo’ness, and breaking operations will begin on her at an early date. The Claymore, though not a big ship, has a very attractive appearance. Built like steam yacht, she has clipper bows. A remarkably good little seaboat, she lacked speed. During the holiday season she made her weekly trip from Glasgow to Stornoway, well packed with passengers, in addition to which she took luggage and cattle. She was veritable delivery van for the Glasgow store keepers, who sent their goods north to the small Highland grocery establishments. The old Claymore, which was launched from Thomson’s yard at Clydebank in 1881, served her purpose faithfully, and there will be many regrets felt by her old admirers at her passing into the hands of the shipbreaker.”—Falkirk Herald May 23 1931
“Oban Town Council has decided boy the panels in the saloon old Glasgow and Western Isles steamer Claymore, which is being broken up.”—Edinburgh Evening News, May 13, 1932
Lochness at Kyle of Lochalsh
Lochness loading at Kyle of Lochalsh
Lochness approaching Stornaway in 1932 (Valentine)
Lochness at Stornoway
Lochness near Kyle of Lochalsh
To take the place of the Claymore, the company purchased a much larger and older vessel. Built as the City of London as long ago as 1871, Lochbroom was modernized and was used in the passenger and cargo runs from Glasgow to Stornaway round the Mull of Kintyre. She proved popular but such a large steamer was too expensive to run over the winter months.
Lochbroom at Kyle of Lochalsh (Kyle Pharmacy)
Loch broom leaving Mallaig in 1932 (Valentine)
Attempts to rearrange the schedule of the mail boat ran into difficulties.
“Presbyteries at variance over sailing of Sunday steamer—Lewis petition for postponement—The Free Church Presbytery of Lewis has prepared a petition for circulation throughout the island calling upon David MacBrayne (1928), Ltd., Glasgow, to postpone the sailing of the mail steamer Lochness from Stornoway from 11 o’clock on Sunday nights to 4 o’clock on Monday mornings. The Presbytery has issued an appeal to their loyal people to do all in their power to make their sentiments in the matter known. At the meeting, when this decision was taken, the Presbytery also set on record its disappointment that the Church Scotland Presbytery Lewis have refused to cooperate with them. The Free Presbytery also recorded in its minutes dissatisfaction with the reasons advanced by the Church of Scotland Presbytery. The two Presbyteries are at variance in their interpretation of works of necessity. The Church of Scotland Presbytery indicated that the sailing of the mail steamer Sunday night might, in certain circumstances, be regarded as a work of necessity, but the Free Church Presbytery argues that what can be altered cannot be called work of necessity. It describes as “pure sophistry” the statement of the Church of Scotland Presbytery that the proper observance of the Lord’s Day lies more in one’s attitude of mind than in the avoidance of physical or mechanical movements.”—Aberdeen Press & Journal, November 14, 1935
In January 1937, another steamer was transferred to the company from Messrs Burns & Laird. The Lairdsrock had in fact been chartered in 1936, and, renamed Lochgarry, she entered the trade to provide summer cruising to the western highlands and islands. Her passenger accommodation had been brought up to a very high standard and she quickly established herself, taking over the cruising duties of the Lochbroom. Unfortunately she foundered off Ireland in January, 1942 when engaged as a transport.
Lochgarry at Kyle of Lochalsh (Kyle Pharmacy)
The final vessel featured is the Loch Seaforth. She was due to have been ordered in 1939 but this was delayed by the war and she was launched in 1946. When she appeared, the Lochness took over routes.
Lochness at Mallaig in 1950 (Valentine)
Lochness passing Glenelg youth Hostel (SYHA)
Lochness at Barra
Lochness at Tobermory in 1952 (Valentine)
“Hope for Highlands and Islands—“Instead of always repeating that the Western Highlands and Island are declining rapidly it would be more beneficial to encourage them to progress by a profession of faith in their future,” stated Mr H.T. Leith, general manager and local director of David MacBrayne, Ltd., Glasgow, at the ceremony which followed the launch yesterday of the passenger and cargo motor vessel Loch Seaforth by Wllliam Denny and Bros., Ltd., Dumbarton.
“He was pointing out that since 1928 his company had replaced eight old vessels and would soon an over the Loch Seaforth, and that in addition very considerable expansion had been made in the reconstruction of piers and in the development of road services in co-ordination with their steamer services, all of which had benefitted the Highlands.
“Much had been written and spoken of the decline and impending fall or eclipse of the Western Highlands and Islands in the not distant future, but on looking over some records he found that the cargo and livestock carried in 1946, as against 20 years ago had increased by 15 to 30 per cent. Surely such a position made one doubt that the Western Highlands and Islands were moribund.
“Highland Hopefulness—“The Islander is prepared, given the opportunity and the material, to forge ahead,” continued Mr Leith. “The activities of the hydro-electric scheme, the investigation and research work being carried out by the Scottish Council (Development and Industry), and the recent appointment by the Secretary of State of the Highlands and Islands Reconstruction Panel have created a feeling of expectation and hopefulness in the Islands, and we join in the feeling that these and other activities will bear fruit.”
“More piers required rebuilding said Mr Leith, and as these were likely to come under the jurisdiction of county councils he would suggest that consideration he given to centralisation so that as much material as possible be landed or shipped at a focal point for distribution by road, thereby reducing the number of ports of call of the vessels.
“More vessels were required, and in addition to improvements in other directions there was need for cooperation between the Islands themselves for their mutual benefit.
“Supply delays—Sir Maurice Denny, Bt., chairman of the Dumbarton firm, in proposing success to the new vessel, said they had hoped to deliver the Loch Seaforth next month, but their plans had been upset by unavoidable delays to the supply of material necessary for her completion.
“Other speakers were Mr John H. Denny deputy-chairman of the Dumbarton firm, Mr J. L Roxhurgh, superintendent engineer of David MacBrayne, Ltd., and the Lord Provost of Glasgow (Sir Hector M‘Neill).
“The Loch Seaforth, which was named by Mrs H. T. Leith, is a twin-screw motor vessel intended for the Mallaig and Kyle of Lochalsh to Stornoway service. She has accommodation for 500 first and third class passengers, and Sulzer engines will give her a speed of 14 to 15 knots.
“Pipers from the Glasgow Transport Department band played “The Road to the Isles” as the vessel took the water.”—Glasgow Herald, May 20, 1946
Loch Seaforth fitting out at Dumbarton (Valentine)
Loch Seaforth at Kyle of Lochalsh (Valentine)
Loch Seaforth with Loch Nevis at Kyle of Lochalsh (Valentine)
Loch Seaforth at Kyle of Lochalsh
Loch Seaforth passing Kyleakin light (Valentine)
Loch Seaforth at Stornaway around 1960
The ship again proved popular but like her predecessors on the route she had troubles with the rocky coast.
“All 26 passengers were taken off a steamer after she ran aground in storm-tossed seas off the Isle of Skye today. A spokesman for the owners, David McBrayne Ltd., of Glasgow, said: “We understand that they were taken off by another vessel. They are safe and due to be landed shortly.” He added: “As far as we know there is no danger of the ship breaking up or anything like that. The weather is still very bad up there.”
“The rescue drama started when the 1,100-ton Loch Seaforth sent out a Mayday signal for immediate assistance, after heavy winds and strong seas drove her on rocks off Broadford, Isle of Skye. A lifeboat and several other ships in the area went to her assistance. The Loch Seaforth, based at Mallaig, Inverness-shire, was on the Mallaig-Kyle of Lochalsh to Stornoway run. She was about half an hour from Kyle, on the return from Stornoway, when she was hit by Force 7 to 8 winds.
“One of the passengers from the Loch Seaforth, merchant seaman George Mackenzie, 42, said. “There was just a bit of a shatter, and there she was up on the island, high and dry. I’m on my way to join a ship in Glasgow, and it’s the first time I’ve been aground in 20 years at sea.”
“No panic—“There was no panic whatever. Most of the people on board were sleeping and it was all over before they knew what had hit them. There were a few women on board, a couple of elderly women, and one child.” Mr. Mackenzie, a single man who lives in Stornoway, was speaking just before boarding a relief bus with other passengers, to take them from Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness. The crew has remained on board.
All the passengers were able to step straight from the stricken steamer on to the Western Isles, a small boat which had come to their aid, because of the depth of water near the beach.”—October 22 1971
On March 22, 1973, she ran aground in the Sound of Gunna and sank.
“41 saved when isles ferry strikes rock.—Fishing boats to rescue (Brian Currie.)—Forty one passengers and crew abandoned the MacBrayne ferry Loch Seaforth (1126 tons) early yesterday after she struck rocks off the isle of Tiree. The Loch Seaforth ran aground on the rocks at 5.30 a.m. The eight passengers, who included two young children, and many of the crew rook to the lifeboats almost immediately, while Captain Donald Gunn and the remainder of tile crew stayed on board.
“Two fishing boats, the Saffron and the Harbour Maid, were first to the rescue. The Saffron towed one lifeboat into Sarinish while the crew from the Harbour Maid threw cigarettes to the passengers in the two other lifeboats to keep their spirits up during their three-and-a-half-hour ordeal Both these lifeboats made their own way into Tiree. After they reached Scarinish shortly before 10 a.m. the passengers were taken to Scarinish Hotel where, over hot coffee, they described the grounding.
“Grating sound.—Mr John Scott, aged 55, a joiner, who was travelling from Barra to Oban said he was awakened by a grating sound as the ship hit the rocks. He said: “lt had been a very rough night. When I heard the grating sound and realised something was wrong, I pulled, a jacket over my pyjamas and went on deck. There a member of the crew told me that we had gone aground and would have to take to the lifeboats. “Everyone was very calm, and the two children on the boat were just great. We got into the lifeboats, most of us in nightclothes and after about half-an-hour put up flares.”
“The children, Jacqueline and William Straker, who are aged five and three respectively were travelling with their parents Sergeant William Straker, aged 31, and his wife Arlene, aged 30, to a new posting at REME barracks in Reading. Sergeant Straker and his wife arrived in Britain from Barbados in 1962 and he has been stationed in the North of Scotland ever since. “It had been a very rough crossing, and during the night things like crockery and loose pieces of luggage were thrown about. Then I heard a great crashing sound,” said Sergeant Straker. “We simply threw jackets and coats over our nightclothes and made for the lifeboats. I’ll be glad to get to my new posting, It’s certainly not something I’d like to go through again.”
“Mrs Mary Davidson, from the isle of Eriskay, who was dozing in the lounge when the vessel ran aground, said: “The seas were very big but no one panicked. We were all very calm.” The other passengers were John Jordan, aged 22, of 25 Ayton Park South, Calderwood, East Kilbride, and John McKinnon, from South Uist. All the passengers praised Captain Gunn and his crew for the way they handled the situation. Also aboard was Mr John Whittle, an official of MacBraynes’s.
“A woman who was waiting to sail in the Loch Seaforth to go to hospital in Oban received help from the RAF. They flew her to Mossfield Park where an ambulance was waiting to take her one-and-a-half-miles to the county chest hospital.
“Captain hits at lack of lights—Captain Gunn, the Loch Seaforth’s master, blamed the absence of warning lights and the many treacherous rocks just below the surface for the incident. He said that navigation in the area was a combination of guesswork based on experience. The ferry was refloated and towed into Scarinish Harbour at midday by the tug Cruiser.
“Among passengers waiting to board the Loch Seaforth in Scarinish were three divers from Ocean Services, Ltd., Leeds, who have been looking for wrecks in the area. One of them, Mr Harry Helmsley, inspected the ship’s hull and found that it was holed and that the engine room was flooded. The Clyde tug Warrior left Greenock yesterday afternoon to tow the Loch Seaforth to Greenock.
“In October, 1971, she went aground in heavy seas off the northern tip of Skye. All 26 passengers escaped.”—Glasgow Herald, March 23, 1973
Loch Seaforth at Tiree with Cruiser (Glasgow Herald)
Loch Seaforth at Scarinish Pier (Glasgow Herald March 24, 1973)
Loch Seaforth was raised and brought to Troon on the Clyde where she was broken up, by then an anachronism in the days when car ferries were in vogue.
C. Tucker: “Steamers to Stornoway,” The Islands Book Trust, Kershader, Isle of Lewis, 2013
C. L. D. Duckworth and G. E. Langmuir: “West Highland Steamers,” 4th edition, Brown, Son & Ferguson, Glasgow, 1987