Islanders have hit back at decisions to raise ferry ticket prices by 10 per cent next year - a move they said will mostly impact the most vulnerable in their communities. Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop announced the rise will take effect from 1 January on the Northern Isles network and 28 March on the west coast. She said a fare freeze, which had been in place this year – at a cost of about £10 million – would be “too challenging to continue” given the financial outlook facing the Scottish Government.
The announcement comes as Scotland’s ferry system continues to face disruption caused by breakdowns. The Ferries Community Board (FCB), which represents communities that use the Clyde and Hebrides ferry services, said it was “disappointed and surprised to see another fares increase for island residents and businesses.” FCB chairman Angus Campbell said: “Island communities and businesses have suffered socially and financially over the last number of years due to lack of investment and poor decision making.
It is now ironic that they are being further impacted with a 10 per cent increase following the 8.7 per cent increase that has only recently been implemented in 2024. “This affects most the most vulnerable in our islands including the young and those with families at a time when universal free travel is protected elsewhere.
” Mr Campbell said the FCB was particularly disappointed the increase had been decided “with no consultation or impact assessment bu.