Windermere Ferry will be taken out of the water next month for its five-yearly refit and full inspection.

The Mallard, a vessel that can carry 15 cars and more than 100 passengers across England’s longest lake between Bowness and Far Sawrey, will be out of service from March 4 for approximately three weeks. It is anticipated to be back in operation from March 25.

The inspection will be carried out by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) – the licensing body that provides the licence for the Windermere Ferry to run. This licence requires an out of water inspection to be carried out every five years. The inspection will include a review of the mechanical, electrical and operational records to ensure that the vessel, and the council as operator, is fit to continue providing the service.

The work will also include installing an emergency access platform to the side of the Mallard from the car deck. This would provide a safe means of evacuating passengers in an emergency as a direct cross-board to a vessel alongside. Additionally, the vessel will undergo a full re-paint, new graphics, rust treatment and the installation of a new PA system to improve the passenger experience. This work, which will cost around £150,000, was unable to be completed when the ferry was out of action following the engine fire last year.

Councillor Keith Little, cabinet member for transport, said: “ The five-yearly inspection and refit is essential work that will ensure the ferry is in top condition ahead of the busy summer season.”