MV Portaferry II operates the Strangford - Portaferry ferry service across Strangford Lough, Co Down. The Vessel operates as the primary vessel with back up and refit cover provided by MV Strangford Ferry. Built in 2001 on Merseyside by McTay to replace the then aging MV Portaferry Ferry. The Vessel was purpose built to operate the short crossing of Strangford Lough with its exceptionally strong tidal currents. In 2015/16 the vessel visited Cammell Laird, Birkenhead for refit. During its visit to Lairds the yard also continues work on a new Strangford Lough Ferry. The new ferry to replace MV Strangford Ferry is designed similar to the MV Portaferry II and is expected to arrive at Strangford in August 2016.