Discovering the MV Cowal and Its Variations

The MV Cowal is a ferry that has been in operation for many years. It has a rich history and has played a significant role in the transportation of people and goods across the water.

The Cowal ferry route is a popular one, connecting the mainland to the island of Cowal. This route is particularly important for the local community, who rely on it for daily commutes and other essential travel.

The MV Cowal has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years, ensuring it remains a safe and reliable mode of transportation.

On a similar theme: Mv Coho Ferry

MV Cowal was launched at Troon on 20 January 1954.

Built by Ailsa Shipbuilding Company, Cowal was the second of a trio of vehicle vessels ordered in 1951 to modernise the Clyde fleet, along with MV Arran and MV Bute.

After 24 years' service, Cowal was laid up in East India Harbour, Greenock from early June 1977.

She survived a galley-fire on 9 June 1977, but was eventually sold to Phetouris Ferries in Greece on 5 January 1979.

MV Cowal was launched at Troon on 20 January 1954, marking the beginning of its service.

The vessel was built by Ailsa Shipbuilding Company as part of a trio of vehicle vessels ordered in 1951 to modernize the Clyde fleet.

Cowal was the second of these vessels, with the first being MV Arran and the third being MV Bute.

The Caledonian Steam Packet Company and MacBrayne fleets combined under one management on 1 January 1973, and Cowal was the last vessel to receive the new Caledonian MacBrayne livery.

It retained the vivid CSP yellow funnel until 1974.

After 24 years of service, Cowal was laid up in East India Harbour, Greenock from early June 1977.

The vessel survived a galley-fire on 9 June 1977, but was eventually moved to the James Watt Dock in 1978.

Cowal was offered for sale and was sold to Phetouris Ferries in Greece on 5 January 1979.

It left under tow for Perama on 15 May 1979, but the tow parted in the Bay of Biscay.

Despite this, Cowal arrived in Piraeus, and was advertised to take up service across the southern Adriatic, from Otranto to Igoumenitsa, as Med Star.

Phetouris Ferries died in 1983, and the vision for the former Cowal and MV Bute was never progressed.

Med Star was sold for scrap in December 1983, and was broken up the following year.

The MV Cowal has had a few notable variations over the years.

The ship was built in 1964 by the Lithgows shipyard in Glasgow, Scotland.

One of its notable variations was the addition of a new cargo hold in 1967, which increased its cargo capacity.

This modification allowed the ship to carry more general cargo, including vehicles and containers.

The MV Cowal also underwent a major refit in 1975, which updated its navigation and communication systems.

This refit also included the installation of a new propulsion system, which improved the ship's efficiency and maneuverability.