The Lynher ferry was delayed in being towed to Falmouth for its five-year annual refit because of bad weather and eventually left the sound on the 31st March, 2025.
Lynher’s return has now also been delayed due to additional repairs that were identified in vital ‘out of water’ inspections.
Operator Tamar Crossings said, “Work on the Lynher included a new control system to be integrated with the ferry’s existing mechanical and electrical equipment and made by Rolls Royce.”
“The vessel was repainted from top to bottom and is now out of dry dock and ready to be towed back to Plymouth once Harbour Acceptance Testing (HAT) is happy the vessel meets all the requirements of its long-term performance and reliability.”
“Once the subsequent HAT testing has been successfully completed, the team will begin preparing the ferry for its return journey to Torpoint.”
Following Lynher’s return to Torpoint, towing gear will need to be removed and the vessel prepared for service.
This will involve reconnecting the ferry to the chains, restoring the lifesaving & firefighting equipment and seating, and carrying out Sea Acceptance Trials (SAT), including in-service crew training and familiarisation with the new control system.
That work is expected to take up to five days to complete, with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and Lloyds Register then carrying out inspections to certify the ferry for service.
The river crossing service was established in 1791, with chain ferry operations introduced in 1832.
All the latest information can be viewed on their web portal: www.tamarcrossings.org.uk
