The reliability of the Arran ferry (operated by CalMac) has been a significant point of contention in 2026, though the recent introduction of the MV Glen Sannox has finally begun to stabilize the service. For years, the route between Ardrossan and Brodick suffered from frequent cancellations due to "technical failures" of an aging fleet and the closure of the Ardrossan pier for repairs. In early 2026, the service is still in a "transitional" state; while the new, more resilient Glen Sannox can handle stormier seas than previous vessels, maintenance overhauls and technical "warranty works" still cause occasional disruptions. Currently, many sailings have been diverted to Troon instead of Ardrossan, which adds travel time for those coming from Glasgow. A grounded peer tip: always check the "CalMac Service Status" page or the app on the morning of your trip. While the service is "more reliable than it was in 2024," it is still prone to the whims of Scottish weather and the ongoing infrastructure upgrades at the ports, making it essential to have a flexible schedule for your visit to the "Scotland in Miniature."