Routes & Operators
Good Shepherd IV to stay off the Fair Isle run into early November
Shetland Islands Council said Good Shepherd IV will be out of service for the next ten days or so, into early November, after the push-pull rod which controls the propeller pitch broke. A replacement has been ordered from Norway. There is no replacement ferry on the Fair Isle run during this period.
Source: Shetland News (opens in a new tab)
Shetland News reported on 23 October 2026 that Fair Isle will be without a ferry service until early November after the Good Shepherd IV broke down last Sunday. An inspection on a local slipway followed on Friday.
A spokesperson for Shetland Islands Council said: "The push-pull rod which controls the propeller pitch is broken, and a replacement has been ordered from Norway." The council also said: "We are also awaiting parts for the auxiliary engine."
"Depending on the delivery times, and customs clearance, we expect the vessel to be out of service for the next ten days or so, into early November," the council said.
There are no plans for a replacement ferry during this period. Shetland News reported that a BK Marine barge has been to Fair Isle with materials for the pier construction works and collected provision from the store at Grutness. The paper said it is understood the barge will do the same again next week if there is no replacement ferry.
The council said: "Normal arrangements and discussions with the community will take place for any additional freight flights, if necessary."