No full ferry service will run between Stornoway and Ullapool for six weeks in the spring because of harbour works on the mainland.
Ferry operator Caledonian Macbrayne (CalMac) is now making alternative arrangements to transport essential goods to Lewis.
According to Ullapool Harbour Trust, cars and freight lorries will be unable to use the Wester Ross port for a month and a half during installation works.
A foot passenger-only ferry service is expected to be provided to Ullapool, probably by a smaller ferry.
For vehicles, options believed being considered by CalMac are to operate a ferry between Stornoway and Skye – however, the new MV Loch Seaforth, which should be on the run by then, cannot berth at the Uig pier.
The MV Isle of Lewis could possibly be deployed for a Lewis to Skye run.
It’s unclear if the MV Clipper Ranger – which sails a nightly freight voyage to Stornoway – can dock at Uig without modifications.
An Ullapool Harbour Trust spokesman said: “To complete the ferry infrastructure upgrade the harbour has received sufficient funding to replace the 42-year old car ramp with work scheduled to start in early November.
“The new two-lane linkspan will be quieter and more efficient in discharging vehicles and reducing turnaround times.”