Official Launch of Jura Ferry

After 30 years the Isle of Jura in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, has it's own direct link with the mainland. Until recently the islanders and visitors had to travel to Kennacraig and Islay first before they could get to Jura. The new service cuts two hours off the journey which makes it much more attractive for daytrippers to visit the Isle of Jura. The journey time between Craighouse on Jura and Tayvallich on the mainland is less than one hour. The passenger service itself is run by Islay Sea Safari since the 16th of June using a 36ft Rigid Inflatable Boat. The new ferry service will not run all year round but will be operational from the 16th of June to the 29th of September. The route is from the Stone Pier in Small Isles Bay at Craighouse (picture), Isle of jura to the pontoons owned by the Tayvallich Bay Association at Tayvallich. The three-year summer pilot is subsidised by Argyll and Bute Council and implemented by the Jura Initiative at the Edge group as well as the Jura Development Trust. The Press and Journal published an article today about the official launch. A quote from the article:

The new passenger ferry service has attracted funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) for major infrastructure improvements at Craighouse, which have just been completed. Councillor Duncan MacIntyre, Argyll and Bute Council's roads and transportation spokesman, said: 'These improvements at Craighouse are to be welcomed with open arms.' The service runs every day, apart from Tuesday, until September 29, with four crossings each day, two in each direction, at a cost of £30 for a return trip. Next summer and the year after the service will run from April to September. HIE development manager Colin Mclean said: 'The project aims to boost the level of economic activity and visitor spend on Jura as well as enhance the sustainability of local businesses.' Isle of Jura Development Trust development officer Elaine Campbell said: 'We are delighted to have this project finally realised and fully support the benefits it will bring to the island.'