Scots ferry through pirate seas

The vessel will replace an older ferry on a route across the Pentland Firth

A ferry built to run between Caithness and Orkney took "maritime security measures" as it passed through seas where ships have been taken by pirates.

Pentland Ferries' Pentalina is travelling to Scotland from the Philippines, where it was built.

Ships have been seized by pirates in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean - including the Sirius Star supertanker.

The Pentalina passed through the "corridor" on Tuesday and was due to arrive in Suez on Friday.

The security measures it took are recommended for all vessels that sail off the coast of Somali, but come at a time of heightened risk.

Older ferry

After leaving Suez the next stop for the Pentalina is expected to be either Malta or Gibraltar.

Its departure for Scotland was previously delayed for the arrival of more equipment. Reports from its crew said the catamaran was operating well.

It will replace an older ferry on a route between Orkney and Caithness.

The Pentalina should be able to carry 350 passengers, between 32 and 58 cars and nine lorries and make the crossing between St Margarets Hope, Orkney, and Gills Bay, Caithness, in 45 minutes.