Rosyth ship completes maiden trip

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The ferry service links Rosyth to Zeebrugge

The maiden voyage of the new ferry service linking Scotland with mainland Europe has been completed.

First Minister Alex Salmond welcomed passengers off the Scottish Viking after it sailed into Rosyth from Zeebrugge at 1415 BST.

Norfolkline took on the Rosyth to Zeebrugge service after the route was dropped by Superfast last September.

The ferry's sailing was delayed by several hours on Monday after the captain suffered a heart attack.

Antonio Arbilli had surgery is understood to be in a stable condition.

As Scottish Viking was built in an Italian shipyard and registered in Italy, flag state regulations state that the captain must be an Italian national.

Maintaining connections with major European markets is vital for Scotland at a time of global economic challenges First Minister Alex Salmond

A replacement captain, Dominico Commisso, was flown by private jet to Belgium to bring the ship over to Rosyth.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: "I'm delighted to welcome the Scottish Viking and its first homecoming passengers to Scotland. Securing the continuation of this service is a real success story and hugely important to Scotland's economy.

"Maintaining connections with major European markets is vital for Scotland at a time of global economic challenges."

He was joined by representatives of Norfolkline and Forth Ports.

Thomas Woldbye, CEO and group managing director of Norfolkline, said: "This is an exciting day for Norfolkline and we are proud to be launching this new venture.

"Our thanks go to the Scottish Government and the many other Scottish organisations and companies who have given us overwhelming support to get this new route off to a good start."

Charles Hammond, chief executive of Forth Ports, said: "Today we are not just witnessing the arrival of the Scottish Viking but a new chapter in Scotland's relationship with the continent and all the economic rewards that will be possible from this."

The Scottish Viking will sail to Zeebrugge three times a week

Crawford Gillies, chairman of Scottish Enterprise, said: "Scotland's links with mainland Europe are critical if we are to remain globally competitive.

"This route provides Scottish businesses with quick, reliable access to markets offering new growth possibilities.

"I am delighted to welcome Norfolkline to Scotland and to the Rosyth-Zeebrugge route, and wish them every success with their operations."

Philip Riddle, VisitScotland chief executive said: "Direct access to a destination is a key consideration when visitors plan their holiday and we are certain the new route from Zeebrugge to Rosyth will provide an excellent means of access for those taking touring holidays and provide Scotland with an invaluable link for European visitors."

The vessel is expected to leave Rosyth close to its scheduled departure time of 1700 BST on Tuesday for its return journey to Zeebrugge.

The ferry is due to sail three times a week each way.