MV Cowal crew accommodation was below the bridge and at the stern. She was fitted with electric hoists and side-ramps to allow the loading of vehicles from conventional piers and at any state of tide. The 14-ton cargo lift had space for five average cars, which were turned on two 14-foot turntables on the lift and a further one at the front of the "garage". An aft cargo hold had two 7-ton derricks for cargo handling. These were removed in 1958 and the hold plated over, to provide additional car deck area. MV "Cowal" entered service on the Gourock to Dunoon crossing
Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games bands also participate in mass piping events for the entertainment of the festival attendees. In the tradition of the Highland games, the festival hosts a series of Scottish strength competitions, including hammer throwing, tug-of-war, and caber tossing. There is also a 10k running event. Highland dancers participate in various classes of competitions, and provide entertainment throughout the weekend. Each year members of about 50 Scottish clans set up tents to display the history of their families. Traditional Scottish food and music are also available for the attendees, as well as whiskey tasting, quilting, horse shoeing, weaving and genealogical displays. Storytellers