Like the five Enviro400 double-deckers delivered to the operator in 2024 and 2025, the bus will be used on a shuttle service that takes cruise ship passengers from the new terminal at Stornoway into the town centre.
The bus has been chosen for its high capacity: at 11.5m long, it seats 85, with comfortable high-backed seats. It is painted in Lochs Motor Transport’s white-based livery with ‘Eilean Leòdhais’ – meaning ‘Isle of Lewis’ – branding on the front.
The earlier Enviro400 buses delivered by Alexander Dennis were the first double-deckers to operate on Lewis and Harris, giving a major boost to the number of cruise visitors that can be carried into Stornoway.
In 2024, the port received a record 57,000 cruise ship passengers, contributing greatly to the economy of the Outer Hebrides, which relies on tourism.
When it’s not running on the cruise ship shuttle service, the bus will be used for the operator’s schools and private hire work.
Roddy MacDonald, Director of Lochs Motor Transport, said: “Our double-deck Enviro400 buses have performed brilliantly on the Stornoway shuttle service, forming a vital part of the island experience for our cruise visitors, with a comfortable ride and panoramic views.
“The buses are easy to operate and maintain, and we’ve been especially happy with the service from Alexander Dennis, both before delivery and afterwards. We’re very pleased to upgrade our fleet with another of these lovely vehicles.” Charlie Miller, Head of Retail Sales at Alexander Dennis, said: “I’m delighted to do more business with Lochs Motor Transport. Roddy and the team have been very supportive to myself and Alexander Dennis through the years. They are a high-quality operator; having them return to buy our fantastic Enviro400 bus again means a lot to us and says a lot about the product.”
