Thirty per cent of the population of the Highlands and Islands live on more than ninety inhabited islands. By virtue of the fact that a significant proportion of the region is made up of islands, sea transport forms a vital social and economic role in supporting the island communities, businesses and tourism.
With the exception of a few relatively low capacity air services to some islands, ferries are responsible for carrying all passenger movements and the majority goods traffic movements to, from and between the islands. Thus, the capacity, speed, frequency and cost of ferries are an important determinant in the efficiency and effectiveness of island transport networks.
There are a number of sea ports in the region, and this provides a potential gateway for coastal shipping traffic, in addition to access for ferry operations. Ports are often an economic driver, as well as a link in the lifeline network for island communities. |
