Garelochhead 30/5/2011

I had a change to take a trip to Garelochhead last night for a rare glimpse of a Deltic 55 diesel-electric loco.

This class operated on Britain's railways from the 1950's until the early 80's and this fine engine has brought out of retirement.

Deltic loco 55022 - Royal Scots Grey

Royal Scots Grey sitting at Garelochhead station

Inside a deltic cab with real dials and levers and no sign of computer controls

One of two airhorns at either end of the loco

With this section of line being single track, the deltic had to wait for the more modern engine clearing the line before she was able to proceed

Greenock docks - 26/5/11

Took a trip down to the docks this afternoon. It sure doesn't feel like we are less than a month away from midsummers day. It was cold and very windy. On a brighter note, It's always good to have a catch up with Dougie

First boat in was Clyde Marine's Cruiser

CMS Cruiser passing East India harbour

MOD Police launch Mull passed in the opposite direction before heading across the river towards Gareloch.

Mull

Two of Svittzer's tugs were on their way back to base from helping out a Finnart so I headed over to Garvel Point in time to catch them coming into James Watt Dock

Ayton Cross

Ayton Cross entering JWD

First along was Ayton Cross followed closely by Svitzer Milford

Svitzer Milford

Svitzer Milford in JWD

Back along to East India harbour for Shoalway heading down river. She is currently working alongside Shieldhall and discharging in rgw firth off Dunoon.

Shoalway

Final Picture for today is of Serco's fleet tender Oronsay on her way to Great Harbour

SD Oronsay

Normand Subsea

ROV support vessel Normand Subsea arrived on the Clyde today. Showing as heading for Glasgow, I took up position at East India Harbour and waited patiently hoping that she would come by between the day's heavy rain showers. Alas, she approached right in the middle of a shower of rain and proceeded to cant and berth at the Ocean Terminal.

Needless to say, today's pictures aren't as clear as I would have liked.

River Clyde

After watching Grand Princess berthing this morning I went over to the East India Harbour.

First along was SD Mars on her way to Great Harbour

Clyde Marine tug Biter leaving the Victoria Harbour heading for Glasgow

Clyde puffer VIC-32 sailing down river after spending the night at James Watt Dock. I don't think she is burning smokeless coal judging by the cloud of black smoke.

HMS Dragon returned to Glasgow this morning for final fitting out after being on trials in the Firth of Clyde

Grand Princess

Grand Princess is the first of this year's cruise liner visits at Greenock Ocean Terminal. I made it down to The Splash just before 7:30 this morning as she was completing her turn.