Transport secretary Fiona Hyslop

Construction of the overnight berth proposal is expected to commence Autumn 2025 and will improve the resilience and reliability of lifeline ferry services sailing from Mallaig to Lochboisdale, Armadale and the Small Isles.

Transport secretary Fiona Hyslop confirmed the Scottish Government’s support for the proposal while undertaking a series of important engagements in Mallaig and the Small Isles.

Fiona Hyslop said: “Visiting Mallaig today, I am pleased to confirm £6.4m of Scottish Government funding towards the delivery of a new overnight berth facility at Mallaig Harbour.  

“This overnight berth proposal will further enhance our islands connectivity and the reliability of CalMac ferry services for local and island residents, communities and businesses. I look forward to working closely with Mallaig Harbour Authority to deliver this important project.

“In the coming year, we intend to invest over £530m maintaining and enhancing our ferry networks, and strengthening the resilience of services on the west coast and northern isles. Alongside our recent provision of capital grant funding towards port improvements at Canna, this investment in Mallaig Harbour will continue to support ferry services in the region for years to come.”

Mallaig Harbour Authority chief executive officer Jacqueline McDonell, added: “Mallaig Harbour Authority are delighted to welcome the announcement from Transport Scotland of funding towards creating a dedicated ferry berth for CalMac within the Outer Harbour. We are also grateful for the support of CMAL throughout the process.

“Having a dedicated overnight berth will consolidate ferry services from Mallaig, and will reduce the need for vessel movements within the Outer Harbour, improving safety and minimising carbon emissions.

“This is the first step in a programme of improvements to ferry infrastructure within the port, and we look forward to continued partnership working with our colleagues at CMAL, CalMac and Transport Scotland.”