New catamaran ferry on home leg

The vessel passed through the Gulf of Aden on its way to Scotland

A catamaran ferry built to run between Caithness and Orkney is due to reach the isles on Tuesday.

Pentland Ferries' Pentalina was constructed in the Philippines.

On the journey from the Pacific islands, the crew took security measures as it passed through seas where ships have been taken by pirates.

Pentland Ferries said the craft was on the last leg of the trip. The company added that the Pentalina still has to undergo a final fitting-out.

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.

Heightened risk

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

Its crew took routine security measures as it passed through the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, where ships have been taken by pirates.

The actions taken are recommended for all vessels that sail off the coast of Somali, but came at a time of heightened risk.

Meanwhile, BBC Scotland news website readers have reported seeing the catamaran off the west coast of Scotland on Monday.

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