A search operation was initiated on Sunday afternoon in the Firth of Clyde after an individual reportedly went overboard from a Western Ferries vessel operating between Dunoon and Gourock. The ferry, which accommodates both vehicles and passengers, was en route when the incident occurred.
Responding swiftly, HM Coastguard dispatched a rescue helicopter and mobilised lifeboat crews to the area. Search efforts have since expanded to include shoreline patrols along the Gourock waterfront, where coastguard personnel conducted foot searches. Police Scotland officers were observed stationed at the nearby ferry terminal, and the Scottish Ambulance Service remains in attendance.
Western Ferries has suspended all sailings on the affected route until further notice. Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), which also operates services across the Clyde, initially intended to resume operations of its passenger vessel, the MV Ali Cat, by 15:20. However, the company has since announced an indefinite postponement of its sailings, with the Ali Cat now supporting the coastguard’s search efforts.
Travellers planning to cross between Gourock and Dunoon have been advised to consult current service updates before setting out, as the situation remains fluid and operations are subject to further delays.