Key dates for bookings on ferry services in Ayrshire this summer have been revealed. 

CalMac's summer timetables from March 29 to September 30 are now available to view on its website, with bookings and advance purchases opening in three phases in the coming weeks. 

Phase one routes, which include Ardrossan to Brodick and Ardrossan to Campbeltown, will open for bookings on Thursday, January 18.

Phase two routes, which include Wemyss Bay to Rothesay, will open for bookings on Tuesday, January 23. 

Finally, the Largs to Cumbrae service will open for bookings on Monday, February 12. 

A CalMac spokesperson said: "We will keep communities and our customers informed of any changes to these dates as we work through the process.  

"We apologise for the late publication of summer timetables, and for the impact this has had on businesses and the communities we serve.

"We were unable to prepare our systems to open bookings while we awaited the decision on 2024 fare levels from Transport Scotland.  

"Transport Scotland has now confirmed fares will rise in line with the 2023 Consumer Price Index at a rate of 8.7% across all routes and fare types.

"The conclusion of this decision allows us to prepare to open bookings as per the timeline outlined above."