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The ferry was due to resume sailing from Ardrossan last month, but a new fault affecting its variable pitch propellers, essential for manoeuvring in harbour, was identified during sea trials, and the ship is still out of service.

It said sea trials were on track and the carrier is expected to enter service later this year.

A spokesperson for CalMac said the latest gearbox fault was believed to be relatively minor and the crew were working to address it, but further sea trials would be required before the ship returns to service.

The 32-year-old ship had been due to resume sailings from Ardrossan to Arran on Friday morning but sea trials revealed a new problem with the ship's gearbox.

CalMac chief executive Duncan Mackison said staff had worked hard to complete sea trials and crew familiarisation for the first gas-powered ferry built in the UK.