A second series of the fly-on-the-wall documentary Island Crossings has been given the green light by BBC Scotland.

Seen through the eyes of crew and islanders, the new 8 x 60’ from IWC (a Banijay UK company) series will again offer audiences unprecedented access to ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne whose services underpin much of life in Scotland’s west coast communities.

Cameras will start to roll this month and will follow the dedicated staff – many of whom live and work on the islands – as they strive to keep ferry services going in all weathers and as they face the logistical challenges of an ever ageing fleet.

David Harron commissioning executive for BBC Scotland said:

“Getting a glimpse behind the scenes of one of Scotland’s best known institutions has offered audiences a unique perspective on Cal Mac and we expect series two to do the same.”

Mark Downie, creative director for IWC added:

“We’re thrilled to be setting sail with Cal Mac for a second series and look forward to capturing more incredible moments with the crew and islanders alike.”

Running more than 500 sailings every day, operating 29 different routes that connect Skye, Harris, Lewis, Mull, Islay, Arran and dozens of smaller islands to mainland Scotland and each other, Cal Mac operate a lifeline service that transports more than five million passengers and 1million vehicles a year, through some of the roughest seas in the world.  The ferry operator has never been far from the headlines in recent months as it faces the logistical challenges of an ever ageing fleet, which requires maintenance and repair, whilst trying to meet an increasing passenger demand for its services.

Island Crossings is an IWC (a Banijay UK company) production for BBC Scotland.  It was commissioned by David Harron, Commissioning Executive, Factual for BBC Scotland. Mark Downie will executive produce for IWC.  Series two will broadcast next year.