Arran's Auchrannie Hotel has responded to the current ferry problems by offering free accommodation to guests who find they can't sail home.

And they are also offering no fee cancellations and the timely return of any deposits paid if visitors who booked accommodation can't make it to the island because ferry services are off.

Their new 'Book With Confidence' policy has been designed to reassure potential visitors.

Auchrannie, along with numerous Arran businesses, is facing significant and urgent financial challenges due to a lack of visitor confidence in the ferry service, which is severely impacting forward bookings.

The business has resolved to implement measures, which may incur significant costs, to address the decreased demand.

This policy aims to mitigate financial concerns for prospective guests affected by ferry disruptions when travelling to the resort from Troon, Ardrossan, and Claonaig.

In a bid to boost forward demand, the customer-focused strategy will include offering guests free of charge accommodation, no fee cancellations and the timely return of any deposits paid should they experience delays or disruption to their journey to or from the island.

Auchrannie’s Business Development Manager, Gordon Hay, said: "Recognising the worries our potential visitors have about ferries, we've shifted from merely acknowledging these problems to actively enhancing our guests' experience.

"Our 'Book with Confidence' policy is about turning challenges into opportunities for reassurance and support. We want our guests to feel secure when booking a stay at Auchrannie, confident in the knowledge that we will look after them, no matter the circumstances."

Read more on the ferry problems here

Linda Johnston, Co-Founder and executive chairperson added: “Each year, over 750,000 journeys are made to and from the Isle of Arran by ferry, with the vast majority encountering no issues.

"However, occasional weather and technical problems can disrupt travel plans. Understanding the potential worry this causes, Auchrannie Resort has taken these proactive and robust measures to ensure that any undue stress and concern by their guests is minimised”.

This unique policy not only aims to boost bookings during the uncertain winter months but also reinforce Auchrannie Resort's ongoing commitment to providing an outstanding hospitality experience under all conditions.

Highlights of the Book with Confidence  Policy include:

  • Cancellation Flexibility: Guests can cancel their reservations without any financial penalty in the event of ferry disruption.
  • No Late Cancellation Fees: In line with their guest-first approach, there will be no charges for late cancellations.
  • Complimentary Shuttle Service: Guests who are unable to bring their cars due to ferry issues will benefit from a free shuttle service between Brodick ferry terminal and the resort.
  • Refund Assurance: Deposits for unused stays will be refunded within seven days.
  • Voucher and Offer Flexibility: Extensions or refunds will be provided for any third-party vouchers used to book stays, and any special offers booked will be honoured at a later date.

Proactive Support for Delayed Departures:

  • Complimentary Late Check-Out: Guests can relax in their rooms longer if their departure is delayed.
  • Continuous Updates and Assistance: Auchrannie’s team will keep guests updated on ferry statuses and assist with advising on passenger rights and compensation due.
  • Free Additional Night's Stay: In cases where guests cannot leave the island due to confirmed ferry cancellations, Auchrannie will provide an extra night's stay at no charge for those who stayed the night before the disruption.

Full term and conditions of the policy can be found at www.auchrannie.co.uk/confidence

For additional information, please email: gordon@auchrannie.co.uk Phone: 01770 303343 or 07768 027 543.