Stena Galloway

Stern-in at Dun Laoghaire, the Stena Galloway. © Justin Merrigan

In July 1992 Stranraer's Stena Galloway had her first spell of service away from the route for which she was built when the Stena Cambria suffered gearbox trouble during the height of the season.

As built, the Galloway Princess at Stranraer. © Kenny Whyte.

Picking up service from Holyhead on 23rd July it soon became apparent that of the four 'Saint Class' ships built by Harland & Wolff, she was the most unsuitable for this crossing. Her bulbous bow prevented her from berthing bow first at Dun Laoghaire forcing operation as a traditional stern loading ship and as time passed she fell increasingly behind schedule as trucks were reversed on board and foot passengers handled over the vehicle ramp.

The Stena Galloway at Dun Laoghaire. © Justin Merrigan

She was also a little slower than her three near-sisters bringing 'please explain' calls as to why the Stena Caledonia, which had originally been built for Holyhead as the St David, was not sent south instead. The Stena Cambria returned to service on 21st August bringing to an close the 'Galloway''s one and only spell on the Holyhead - Dun Laoghaire crossing.