CalMac is to stop taking cash on its ferry network from Saturday 28 March due to cash-handling concerns around the coronavirus pandemic.

The World Health Organisation has advised against handling cash as it is thought this can contribute to the spread of the virus, and travellers on the ferry operator’s West coast routes will only be able to use card, apple pay or google pay on all boats and ports.

Managing Director Robbie Drummond said: “We have introduced this measure in response to concerns raised by our staff and passengers.

“We are asking customers, who still require to use our ferries for essential travel, to ensure they have a valid debit or credit card with them as we will no longer handle cash.

“This is in line with most other organisations who have also stopped taking cash.”