Eilean Dhiura was commissioned by Argyll and Bute Council in 1998,[1] to replace Western Ferries as the Jura Ferry.[2] She was operated initially by Serco Denholm until 2003,[3] now by ASP Ship Management Ltd.[1]
In December 2000, her bow ramp collapsed while at sea. Following this, the MCA required a secondary door to be fitted behind the bow door. A bid by the council for money to replace her was unsuccessful. A new bow ramp was fitted in 2002.
Eilean Dhiura is an open landing craft type ferry, with bow and stern ramps. Her slim bridge allows vehicles to drive through. A small enclosed cabin provides shelter for passengers as does a bus shelter forward of the wheelhouse.
Eilean Dhiura is the Feolin Ferry, providing the main access to Jura. Islay is connected to the Scottish mainland by a Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Kennacraig. Daily, she crosses the 800abbr=offNaNabbr=off between Port Askaig on Islay and Feolin. During her overhaul, early in the year, the service is provided by a chartered vessel, commonly CalMac's or since 2007 belonging to Inverlussa Shellfish Ltd of Mull or more recently the Spanish John II.