Details of the next contract for the Northern Isles lifeline ferry service have been published by Transport Scotland, but the procurement is facing a legal challenge from Orkney based Pentland Ferries.
Fears have been voiced by a north ferry operator that Scottish Government proposals designed to reduce fares could end up sinking business if it goes wrong.
Bus services to Gills Bay in Caithness are to be maintained by transport operator stagecoach following a public backlash on their decision to abolish the route.
The largest mid-speed catamaran in Europe will be ferrying passengers across the Pentland Firth to meet increased demand.