Step 3: Analysis of the performance of the current service

This step considers the performance of each route in terms of reliability (cancellations), punctuality (running to timetable) and capacity utilisation (the ability to travel with a vehicle) and provides commentary on underlying causes and consequences for island communities. Given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is recommended that all detailed analysis includes data to capture the pre-pandemic position, the pandemic itself and the emerging post-pandemic position. 

To inform this, 10 years of sailing-by-sailing data will be required, which is available for both the CHFS and NIFS networks. Such data are also available for local authority services, but the extent and format varies.

Note that the data itemised below is that which would be available for CFL routes. Serco NorthLink Ferries (SNF) data are broadly similar but there are some differences in how it is reported, which would need to be accounted for in any CNA for the Orkney and Shetland Islands.