Hi there,
we are in Oban from the 8.-13.23 and actually planned to go to Mallaig on the 13th, which is a sunday. I checked scotsrail, which lists these two connections:
However when going to the details, there is a red dot at the top. Also the mobile app marks the second part from Crianlarich as "cancelled". Does someone know if those are really not operating and if so - if there are any alternative. There also seems no bus connection.
Regards,
Oliver
Correction: 08.-13.08.23
Cheers
Hi, Oliver,
I just checked the ScotRail website, and there is nothing on there about the Crainlarich to Fort William leg being cancelled on Sunday, August 13th. The website is showing a 12:11 departure from Oban, with a 58 minute layover at Crainlarich to change trains, and arrival in Mallaig, via Fort William, at 17:43. Cost of the one way fare is 39 pounds, 80 pence.
I think that you'll find that red dot on every date. If that train were to be cancelled for any reason (landslide, track closure, etc.), ScotRail would definitely bus you from Crainlarich to Fort William/Mallaig. They are very good about that.
Best wishes,
Mike (Auchterless)
Just searched it too and certainly all seems to be running - that was on National Rail and Train Line
Ok sounds good for now, thanks. Do we know what those red or green dots at the upper left corner mean when looking at the details of connection?
Hi again, Oliver,
From what I can determine, the red dot indicates that you have to change trains enroute, and the green dot indicates that the train goes straight through without your having to switch.
Red = connection
Green = no connection
If you are planning to take the 6 p.m. ferry from Mallaig to Armadale, as opposed to staying overnight in Mallaig, you'll have about 15 minutes to get to the ferry slip. It's about 300 yards, but if you are taking that ferry, I'd advise purchasing your tickets ahead of time, if you haven't already done so.
If you are staying overnight in Mallaig, it's one of my favourite places in Scotland.
Safe travels!
Mike (Auchterless)
I don't think I would be happy connecting to Skye that night.
The days are gone when the ferry would wait for the train, and the other way round. The connections only work for on time running.
If the train was late for any reason the ferry will leave.
IF going to Skye I would suggest taking the Citylink coach from Oban at 0920, with a 90 minute wait at Tyndrum, arriving Portree via the bridge just before 5pm.
In theory if the train was significantly late Scotrail should put you on a chartered bus or taxi to go via the bridge, but I'm not sure they would in reality do that for a ferry connection.
In any event there is no Sunday bus on Skye from Armadale to Portree or anywhere else.
If I were you I would go to Skye over the bridge and see if you can come back via the Mallaig ferry, although those connections are quite sketchy, even on a weekday.
