MV Lochnevis, Oban, Scotland 1969

The MV Lochnevis, launched in 1934 for David MacBrayne Ltd, was one of the last generation of traditional mail steamers to serve Scotland’s western seaboard. Built at William Denny & Brothers of Dumbarton, she combined the elegant lines of a Clyde passenger vessel with the robust seaworthiness needed for the often treacherous waters around Skye, the Inner Hebrides, and Argyll. In service until 1969, Lochnevis played a vital role in maintaining lifeline links to remote communities before being succeeded by more modern car ferries.

A Vessel Built for Highland Service

Lochnevis was launched on 15 May 1934 and entered service later that year. She was 178.5 feet long, 31.1 feet in beam, and displaced 573 gross tons. Her propulsion system was innovative for its time: two Paxman diesel engines generated electricity to power twin electric motors driving her propellers. This made her quieter and more efficient than earlier vessels. In 1957, she was re-engined with Mirlees 4SA six-cylinder diesels, giving her a speed of around 15 knots.

Capable of carrying around 700 passengers, she had no overnight accommodation but featured a variety of lounges, a dining saloon, a smoking room, and generous covered deck space. This made her ideal for both functional year-round service and scenic summer cruising.

The Mallaig–Portree Mail Run

Lochnevis was originally built to operate the Mallaig–Kyle of Lochalsh–Portree route, providing a vital mail and passenger connection to the Isle of Skye. She replaced the older paddle steamer Fusilier and offered a faster, more modern service.

From the outset, Lochnevis proved popular, and MacBrayne quickly began using her on additional summer cruises to scenic destinations like Loch Torridon, Loch Scavaig, and Gairloch. Her very first public cruise from Mallaig to Gairloch in July 1934 reportedly sold out within minutes.

The 1960s: A Changing Era

By the late 1950s, the growing demand for vehicle transport was reshaping ferry services in the Hebrides. In 1958, Lochnevis was replaced on the Skye mail run by vessels better suited for handling cars and was reassigned to Oban. From there, she spent the 1960s on a variety of roles: as a relief mailboat during the winter months and as a summer excursion steamer on what had become known as the “Royal Route”—connecting West Loch Tarbert to Islay, Jura, Gigha, and Colonsay.

During peak weekends, Lochnevis often operated mail services while other vessels like Lochiel carried vehicles by crane. She also ran memorable day cruises through the Gulf of Corryvreckan or up Scotland’s sea lochs, offering passengers a chance to see dramatic scenery from the water. These cruises became a highlight of the tourist season and are fondly remembered by many who travelled aboard her.

Withdrawal and Legacy

MV Lochnevis was finally withdrawn from MacBrayne service in 1969, marking the end of an era for traditional mail steamers. She was sold to Dutch owners in 1970, but plans to repurpose her came to nothing, and she was ultimately scrapped in 1974.