Two 102m dual-fuel ferries, being built by Ferguson Marine in Port Glasgow, set to serve the communities of the Isle of Arran
Two 102m dual-fuel ferries, being built by Ferguson Marine in Port Glasgow, set to serve the communities of the Isle of Arran
The MV Glen Rosa, the second of two vessels to serve Arran, was launched on Tuesday 9 April 2024 at Ferguson Marine shipyard in Port Glasgow.
The sister ship of MV Glen Sannox, MV Glen Rosa glided into the water to the Skye Boat Song, piped by Stuart McMillan MSP.
Former apprentice Beth Atkinson had the honour of officially naming the ship, christening it with a bottle of commemorative whisky against its hull.
The sister vessel to MV Glen Sannox will be named MV Glen Rosa following a landslide win in a public vote
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has announced that the vessel currently known as Hull 802 will be named MV Glen Rosa, following a public vote which saw nearly 5,000 entries.
4,844 votes were cast in the competition on CMAL’s website, which ran for three weeks. MV Glen Rosa, who will be known as Gleann Ruasaidh in Gaelic, was the most popular name, garnering 52% of the votes.
The vessel, along with MV Glen Sannox, is currently under construction in Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow), and both ferries will play a vital role in providing a fully flexible year-round service for Arran.
Following the recent update to the NZET committee from Ferguson Marine, MV Glen Rosa is due to launch in March 2024.
Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL said:
“The public’s response to the naming of Hull 802 has been fantastic to see, and I’d like to thank everyone for taking the time to vote.
“Though we are disappointed in the delay to launching the vessel reported by Fergusons last week, we understand that the priority is ensuring that the newly named MV Glen Rosa achieves Maritime and Coast Guard (MCA) approval. We continue to work closely with the team at Ferguson Marine and can see great progress being made towards the delivery of both MV Glen Sannox and MV Glen Rosa.”
Robbie Drummond, Chief Executive of CalMac, said:
“We are very much looking forward to MV Glen Rosa and MV Glen Sannox joining our fleet. These vessels will provide much-needed resilience to the Arran community, and to the network as a whole.”
MV Glen Rosa will be one of six new major vessels due to join the CMAL fleet before the end of 2025, following a commitment of £695m from the Scottish Government for the years 2021–2026.
The 102-metre dual fuel ferries will be able to operate on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine diesel. LNG is significantly cleaner and has been adopted by ferry operators in Northern Europe in response to tighter emissions regulations. The ships are designed to carry 127 cars or 16 HGVs, or a combination of both.
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is calling for the public’s help to decide the name for Hull 802, sister ship of Glen Sannox, both of which are under construction in Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow).
The two ferries for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network will provide a fully flexible year-round service for Arran. The vessels they replace will provide greater resilience throughout the wider fleet.
Her launch is likely to take place towards the end of 2023 and is scheduled to follow Glen Sannox into passenger service by the end of 2024.
A shortlist of names has been produced after consulting with Islanders and local communities. The names have ties to Scottish heritage and the landscape on Arran.
Anyone can vote for their favourite from the shortlist, and the most popular name will be given to Hull 802.
Voters will also be entered into a competition to win a free return journey on one of the ferries for four passengers and a car.
The shortlisted names are:
Anybody with an interest in the ferries is welcome to vote here. Voting is open until midnight on Wednesday 23rd August 2023.
Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL said:
“The two ferries, Glen Sannox and Hull 802, will be a welcome addition to our Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network—however Hull 802 is currently nameless!
“We know there’s a lot of interest in the dual fuel ferries, so we hope to see this translate into votes.”
The 102-metre ferries will be able to operate on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine diesel. LNG is significantly cleaner and has been adopted by ferry operators in Northern Europe in response to tighter emissions regulations. The ships are designed to carry 127 cars or 16 HGVs, or a combination of both.
A spokesperson for CMAL said:
“We welcome this well-researched and robust report into the contractor failures in the dual-fuel vessels project.
“Throughout the contract, CMAL acted professionally and appropriately in line with our legal obligations. We provided impartial advice and voiced our concerns when necessary. Like everybody involved, we are extremely disappointed by the delay to the two vessels, which we know island communities are desperately in need of.
“We have already taken forward many of the recommendations in this report. For example, CMAL lawyers Addleshaw Goddard have appointed a KC to conduct an independent investigation of the procurement process, and we have also re-established a strong working relationship with the team at Fergusons.
“We are seeing significant progress being made on the vessels. We remain confident in, and committed to, their delivery.”
MV Glen Sannox has returned to Port Glasgow from a brief but essential stay at dry dock in Greenock.
The vessel—one of two dual-fuel ferries being built at Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow) (FMPG)—has spent three weeks at Dales Marine for essential works on its propulsion systems, seals and bow doors. She was also given a fresh coat of paint. Read the full update on the Ferguson Marine website here.
MV Glen Sannox has left Port Glasgow, heading down the Clyde for a three-week stay in dry dock in Greenock, where finishing touches will be made to internal systems including its propulsion, and for a fresh coat of paint to its hull. Read the full update on the Ferguson Marine website here.
The first emergency diesel generator has been run successfully on MV Glen Sannox, one of two dual fuel vessels being built at Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow). Read the full update on the Ferguson Marine website here.
Today, 30 June 2022, representatives of CMAL appeared at the Public Audit Committee to give evidence on the New Vessels for the Clyde and Hebrides: Arrangements to deliver vessels 801 and 802 report. In attendance were Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive Officer, Morag McNeill, Interim Chair, and Erik Østergaard, Former Chair, Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited.
CMAL’s written submission is available to view here.
The recording of the session is available to view here.
Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow) has announced the completion of a major milestone in the build of one of the dual-fuel ferries currently under construction.
Hull 802, as the vessel is currently known, was fitted with its large bow unit which, at 100 tonnes, is the largest single unit added to the ferry’s steel hull. Read the full update on the Ferguson Marine website here.
Following the statement made in parliament about the delay to the dual fuel ferries, our chief executive, Kevin Hobbs, said:
“It is very disappointing to be informed of a further delay to the delivery of our two dual fuel vessels. I know people living in island communities will share our disappointment. That said, we’re experiencing a global pandemic, which has impacted every business in the country. The Covid-19 lockdown was an exceptional circumstance; it is hardly surprising it has impacted on the shipbuilding process.”
Our chief executive, Kevin Hobbs, and director of vessels, Jim Anderson, have provided oral evidence to the Rural Economy and Connectivity (REC) Committee inquiry into construction and procurement of ferry vessels in Scotland.
We also submitted written evidence, which can be read online at the Scottish Parliament’s website:
https://www.parliament.scot/S5_Rural/General%20Documents/RECC_CMAL_FI.pdf
Further information on the inquiry, as well as copies of written evidence and correspondence submitted to the Committee, can be found on the Scottish Parliament website.
Our chief executive, Kevin Hobbs, has responded to the statement made today in the Scottish Parliament about the shipyard and dual fuel ferry contract.
Kevin Hobbs said:
“We are disappointed and frustrated by the cost and timeline information that has been shared today by Scottish Ministers. Island communities will share our disappointment, knowing they have to wait for the new vessels, which are desperately needed.
“The contract is robust in terms of budget and timescales, based on decades of shipbuilding experience within the CMAL team. The agreed contract price for two dual fuel vessels is comparable with budgets for LNG vessels built across Europe and around the world and should have been achieved.
“Our main priority remains to secure the delivery of the two vessels, as expeditiously as possible. We remain committed to working with the shipyard management team to progress the vessels to completion.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said:
“Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd has advised us that the first vessel, the MV Glen Sannox, will now be delivered during summer 2019, and the second vessel in spring 2020.
“While this further delay is disappointing, it is important to focus on the fact that we will have two new ships joining the fleet serving the Clyde and Hebrides network that have been built in Scotland, providing vital support to our ship building industry.”
The UK’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) passenger ferry was launched today (Tuesday 21st November 2017) on the Clyde by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
The 102-metre, roll-on/roll-off vehicle passenger ferry, named MV Glen Sannox, can operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO). LNG is significantly cleaner and will help to reduce emissions to meet ambitious Scottish Government targets.
The innovative dual fuel vessel was launched at Ferguson Marine Engineering Limited’s (FMEL) Port Glasgow shipyard and is the first of two LNG ferries being built as part of a £97 million contract on behalf of Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL).
MV Glen Sannox is designed to carry 127 cars or 16 HGVs or a combination of both and up to 1,000 passengers. The vessel is due to be delivered in Winter 2018/2019.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:
“Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd makes a significant contribution to the Scottish industrial sector and to the Inverclyde economy.
“These state of the art ferries are more sustainable, therefore contributing to Scotland’s world-leading climate change goals. They are also capable of carrying more vehicles and benefiting the communities that rely on them.”
Jim McColl, chief executive, Clyde Blowers, which owns FMEL, said:
“The successful launch of the MV Glen Sannox marks an important milestone in Ferguson Marine’s journey to becoming a world-class shipyard. As this is the first ferry in the UK capable of being run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil, not only has this been an extremely exciting and ambitious project for both FMEL and CMAL, but it has been an extremely complex one as well.
“FMEL and CMAL have worked closely together on the highly challenging engineering issues arising from the unique nature of the dual fuel ferry project. The experience and knowledge gained during this project will be of enormous benefit to the competitiveness of Scottish shipbuilding in the future as technology continues to develop to meet tightening clean energy legislation.”
Kevin Hobbs, chief executive, CMAL said:
“We welcome the launch of Glen Sannox, marking a major milestone in the construction of this highly innovative vessel. The use of LNG in maritime transport is a sign of our ongoing commitment to exploring new fuel technologies for ferries, as well as a wider commitment to innovation in Scotland and consideration for the environmental impact of transport.”
Robbie Drummond, CalMac’s Service Delivery Director said:
“The launch of any vessel is an exciting time in its construction and we are pleased to see the first of the new ships being built at Port Glasgow reach this important milestone. As the end-customer for the MV Glen Sannox, we are looking forward to welcoming her to our fleet in due course.”
A major logistical engineering operation took place on the Clyde today (Friday 14th July) when an 88-tonne liquefied natural gas (LNG) tank was delivered to Ferguson shipyard, marking a significant milestone in the construction of Scotland’s first LNG ferry.
The 147m3 tank is the first to be delivered for two dual fuel ferries being built for Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL). The 102 metre vessels will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO), helping to reduce emissions.
The unloading operation involved 20 specialised personnel and equipment to raise the tank off a barge at the quayside using a specialised 750-tonne heavy lift crane.
The tank, supplied by Wartsila, left Shanghai, China eight weeks ago, travelling by sea through the Suez Canal to Antwerp before reaching Scotland’s shores this week.
The pressurised tank, made from double-skinned stainless steel and perlite insulation, is the single largest component required for the construction of the vessels.
Andy Crossan, Projects Director at CMAL said:
“This was a highly challenging engineering process to secure the safe delivery of the first LNG tank into the yard. Our team, working with our partners and suppliers, has been involved in planning the transport and delivery logistics of this for the past two months and it’s fantastic to finally see its arrival.
“The tank is hugely impressive and its arrival reminds us of the scale of the project we are delivering. The design and build of these dual fuel vessels is a highly complex technical project, the first of its kind in Scotland – and indeed the UK. It is a sign of our commitment to exploring new technologies for ferries, as well as a wider commitment to innovation in Scotland and consideration for the environmental impact of transport.”
CMAL, which owns the ferries, ports and harbours across the west coast of Scotland, has designed the vessels to provide a fully flexible, year-round service for the Ardrossan to Arran and the Skye Triangle routes. The first ferry, recently named as MV Glen Sannox, is expected to enter service in the second half of 2018.
MV GLEN SANNOX has been chosen as the name for Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited’s (CMAL) new dual fuel ferry.
MV GLEN SANNOX was a landslide winner among a shortlist of four names, receiving nearly 50% of the votes in a competition organised by CMAL to select the new vessel’s name. All shortlisted names were inspired by the Isle of Arran, as the ferry is earmarked to operate on the Ardrossan to Brodick route.
The 102-metre ferry is the first of two dual fuel vessels currently being built by CMAL at the Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd (FMEL) shipyard in Port Glasgow. The ferry will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO).
All of those who voted were entered into a prize draw and Mairi Brown from Gourock was chosen at random from over 2300 people who voted in the competition. She will be invited as a special guest to the launch of the ferry at the Ferguson Shipyard in Port Glasgow. Mairi will also receive a £200 gift voucher for the Auchrannie Resort, two bottles of commemorative whisky, bottled by Arran Distillery to mark the ferry launch, and a special goody bag.
Kevin Hobbs, CEO at CMAL, said:
“We are delighted with the public’s choice; Glen Sannox reflects Arran’s history and heritage, bringing back to life the name of the first purpose-built car ferry that serviced the Isle of Arran.
“Thank you to everyone who took part and voted and congratulations to Mairi Brown who won our naming competition – we look forward to welcoming her to the ferry launch later this summer.”
The vessel is expected to enter service in the second half of 2018. A competition to name the second ferry, Hull 802, will be launched later this summer.
Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) has announced a shortlist of names for the first of its two 102 metre dual fuel ferries and is inviting the public to vote for their favourite name.
The shortlist has been selected by the CMAL Board and the Scottish Government, with help from the Clyde River Steamer Club to reflect the ferry’s Scottish roots. The ferry, currently known as Hull 801, is earmarked for Arran and all names are inspired by Arran’s history and geography.
The shortlisted names are:
The naming competition launches today, Tuesday 2nd May 2017, and to vote in the competition simply go online and vote for your preferred choice before midnight on Monday 29th May 2017, when voting closes.
The name with the most public votes will be the name of the first LNG ferry.
All of those who voted for the winning name will be entered into a prize draw. One person chosen at random will be invited as a special guest (with a friend) to the launch of the ferry at Ferguson Marine Engineering Limited’s (FMEL) ship yard in Port Glasgow. The winner will also receive a £200 gift voucher for the Auchrannie Resort, two bottles of commemorative whisky, bottled by Arran Distillery to mark this special occasion, and a special goody bag. Terms and conditions apply.
Kevin Hobbs, CEO at CMAL, said:
“The ferry will provide a lifeline service for the Arran community. We’re excited to reach this milestone and I encourage locals and ferry enthusiasts to get involved and vote.”
The ferry is one of two currently being built by CMAL at FMEL shipyard. The 102 metre vessels will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO), reducing emissions to help meet Scottish Government reduction targets across transport. They are being designed to provide a fully flexible, year-round service for Arran and the Skye Triangle routes, although the final decision on routes is subject to review by CalMac Ferries Ltd, CMAL and Transport Scotland. The first ferry is expected to enter service in the second half of 2018, with the second vessel following a few months later.
A competition to name the second ferry, Hull 802, will open later this summer.
Click here to view the presentation given to the Arran Ferry Committee on 10th April 2017
(PDF, 6mb)
The construction of the two dual fuel ferries is approaching a new project milestone as the first vessel, currently known as Hull 801, nears the 75 per cent steel work fabrication stage. The second vessel, Hull 802 is following closely behind, currently at 60 per cent steel work fabrication.
The 102 metre vessels will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO), reducing emissions to help meet Scottish Government reduction targets across transport. They are being designed to provide a fully flexible, year-round service for Arran and the Skye Triangle routes.
Last month, the dual fuel engines that will power the vessels were delivered to Ferguson Marine Engineering Limited’s shipyard in Port Glasgow, where the ships are being built. The 147m3 LNG tanks supplied by Wartsila – a stand out feature of the new vessels, measuring 20.4 metres in length and 4 metres in diameter – are nearing completion and are expected to be delivered to the shipyard in June 2017. Work is also underway on the aluminium superstructure that will form the accommodation block of the ships.
Dual fuel engines are delivered
The new ships will be highly manoeuvrable, with Twist Flow Costa Bulb Flap Rudders, three 620 kW bow thrusters and a 480 kW stern thruster. An innovative stern ramp will slide transversely, allowing the ships to operate on several routes across the service network.
LNG fuel tank
CMAL, which owns ferries, ports and harbours across the west coast of Scotland, has published a series of project photos of the hulls, engines and fuel tanks, as well as artist impressions to visualise what the ships will look like when complete.
The new vessels are earmarked for the Arran and Skye Triangle routes, although the final decision on routes is subject to review by CalMac Ferries Ltd, CMAL and Transport Scotland. The first ferry is expected to enter service in the second half of 2018, with the second vessel following a few months later.
Artist’s impression
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) will host a series of public meetings to update communities on the design and build of the new dual fuel vessel for the Skye Triangle route and to discuss harbour infrastructure at Uig, Tarbert (Harris) and Lochmaddy.
Communities are invited to attend their local meeting:
Representatives from CMAL, Calmac Ferries Limited, Transport Scotland and the relevant local authority will attend the meetings.
CMAL, which owns ferries, ports and harbours across the west coast of Scotland, will present the latest progress report on construction of the new 102 metre dual fuel vessel, which is one of two currently being built and is ear marked to serve the Skye Triangle route. It will be capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO), helping to reduce carbon emissions. The vessel will carry up to 1,000 passengers and provide 646 metre vehicle lane capacity, which is approximately 25% increased carrying of a mix of cars, light vehicles, coaches and heavy goods vehicles.
The ferries have been designed to operate from the existing berths at Uig, Lochmaddy and Tarbert (Harris). However, CMAL is currently working with Highland Council and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to investigate what infrastructure improvements may be required at the three ports to optimise operations. CMAL owns the harbour at Tarbert (Harris), while Uig and Lochmaddy are owned by the local authority in each area.
Lorna Spencer, Director of Harbours, Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited said:
“The meetings are an opportunity for local communities to find out the latest information on the new ferry construction, as well as discussions around harbour infrastructure improvements.
“We know that the age and condition of the existing infrastructure at these harbours will benefit from investment to optimise operations. The larger size of the new dual fuel vessel and the ongoing need for investment in harbour infrastructure are key considerations for identifying the works required. We already know that harbour improvements are needed – the arrival of the new vessel is accelerating the process.”
The work to identify harbour requirements will be completed by summer 2017. The two new dual fuel vessels are earmarked for the Arran and Skye Triangle routes, although the final decision on routes is subject to review by CalMac Ferries Ltd, CMAL and Transport Scotland. The first ferry (Hull 801) is expected to enter service in the second half of 2018, with the second vessel (Hull 802) following a little later.
The construction of two dual fuel ferries is approaching a new project milestone as the first vessel, currently known as Hull 801, nears the 75 per cent steelwork fabrication stage, Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has announced.
The second vessel, Hull 802 is following closely behind, currently at 60 per cent steelwork fabrication.
The 102 metre vessels will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO), reducing emissions to help meet Scottish Government reduction targets across transport. They are being designed to provide a fully flexible, year-round service for Arran and the Skye Triangle routes.
Last month, the dual fuel engines that will power the vessels were delivered to Ferguson Marine Engineering Limited’s shipyard in Port Glasgow, where the ships are being built. The 147m3 LNG tanks supplied by Wartsila – a stand out feature of the new vessels, measuring 20.4 metres in length and 4 metres in diameter – are nearing completion and are expected to be delivered to the shipyard in June 2017. Work is also underway on the aluminium superstructure that will form the accommodation block of the ships.
The new ships will be highly manoeuvrable, with Twist Flow Costa Bulb Flap Rudders, three 620 kW bow thrusters and a 480 kW stern thruster. An innovative stern ramp will slide transversely, allowing the ships to operate on several routes across the service network.
CMAL, which owns ferries, ports and harbours across the west coast of Scotland, has published a series of project photos of the hulls, engines and fuel tanks, as well as artist impressions to visualise what the ships will look like when complete.
Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), said:
“It is an impressive sight to see the two vessels being built side by side and the stage of fabrication now allows us to see the vessel form taking shape on the slipway at the shipyard. Hull 801 is approaching the 75 per cent fabrication stage, with Hull 802 following closely behind. The yard is now moving into the main equipment installation stage of the vessels.
“The LNG fuel tanks are hugely impressive and their planned delivery reminds us of the scale of the project we are delivering. The design and build of these dual fuel vessels is a highly complex technical project, the first of its kind in Scotland – and indeed the UK. They represent CMAL’s commitment to exploring new technologies for ferries, as well as a wider commitment to innovation in Scotland and consideration for the environmental impact of transport.”
Liam Campbell, Managing Director at Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd said:
“We are now entering a stage of the build on the vessels that will see much of the equipment being delivered and allow us to further advance the outfitting of the vessels both on the slipway and in the module hall. These vessels, although complex, allow the yard invaluable experience in LNG vessels and, mixed with the experience we have gained in previous CMAL builds with hybrid propulsion vessels, puts us in a great position to serve the industry with state of the art vessels.”
The new vessels are earmarked for the Arran and Skye Triangle routes, although the final decision on routes is subject to review by CalMac Ferries Ltd, CMAL and Transport Scotland. The first ferry is expected to enter service in the second half of 2018, with the second vessel following a few months later.
Ends
Notes to editors:
The liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage tank for vessel 801 is ready to be delivered to the shipyard for installation following the successful completion of tests, including inspection under the approval of Lloyd’s Register of Shipping, the classification society for the vessel.
The impressive tank is over 20 metres in length, 4.5 metres high and weighs over 80 tonnes, making it the largest and heaviest single component on the new vessel. It has an internal volume of 149m3 and can hold approximately 70 tonnes of LNG.
The tank has been designed by Wartsila, the main contractor for the ship’s propulsion package, and has been built in China by Furuisi under contract to Wartsila. Furuisi is a highly-experienced manufacturer of LNG tanks for road vehicles, land installations and ships. The tank will be transported to Scotland by road and sea.
Inside the tank connection space
The tank is constructed using stainless steel material, made up of an inner and outer tank, with an insulation material placed in between. A vacuum has been created in the space between the tanks to provide maximum thermal insulation between the cold LNG (-163°C) and the machinery space the tank will be located in. This configuration also acts as a containment barrier in the event of any leak of LNG from the inner tank.
A room is attached to one end of the tank – the tank connection space or TCS – and this contains the process control equipment for the system to allow gas to be supplied to the engines in the correct quantities as required.
Richard Hadfield of Transport Scotland’s ferries unit visits Ferguson Marine Engineering in Port Glasgow and witnesses work on the two state-of-the-art vessels.
Steel was cut on 17 February 2016 for our two new ferries being built by Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd (FMEL), marking the start of construction on the £97 million vessels.
The steel cutting ceremony took place at FMEL shipyard in Port Glasgow, where the ships are being built. Derek Mackay, the Scottish Government Minister for Transport and the Islands, joined Tom Docherty, former CEO and Liam Campbell from FMEL, to push the button to start the steel cutting machine.
The new 102m, roll on roll off vehicle passenger ferries are designed to carry 127 cars or 16 HGVs or a combination of both and up to 1,000 passengers. The ships will be capable of operating across a range of drafts and speeds to meet the requirements of the operator to service a wide range of ports and routes.
The ferries will be dual fuel vessels so they can operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil. LNG is significantly cleaner and has been adopted by ferry operators in Northern Europe in response to tighter emissions regulations. FMEL will undertake the detailed design and construction work of the new vessels in Scotland, as well as their testing, equipping, launching and delivery. The designs and drawings will be shared on our website when they are finalised in the coming months.
Erik Ostergaard, CMAL chair, said:
“The new ferries will provide a lifeline ferry service for the communities they will serve and are currently earmarked for the crossing between Ardrossan and Brodick and on the Uig Triangle route, although the final decision on vessel deployment rests with the ferry operator. We look forward to taking delivery of the ferries in 2018.”
We anticipate the first ferry launching late in 2017 and entering service in 2018, with the second vessel following a few months later. The vessels are currently known as hulls 801 and 802 and we will run a competition later in the year to name the new ferries.
We met with Community Councillors in North Uist to deliver a presentation on the new ferries. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation, which includes early designs, a comparison with the existing ferry service and information on the LNG fuel is available here.
Fabrication is now underway and the images below show progress to date.
Images of steel cutting ceremony are copyright of Mark Gibson at the Evening Times
Two 100-metre vessels to be built on the Clyde.
The Minister for Transport and Islands has marked the formal start of construction of two new 100-metre ferries for the Clyde and Hebrides network at Ferguson Marine Engineering Limited (FMEL) on the Clyde.
Derek Mackay started the computer-guided laser to cut the ceremonial first steel for the vessels, currently known as Hull 801 and Hull 802, and met some of the workforce who will help build them.
The £97 million contract was signed in October 2015, securing around 150 existing jobs in the Port Glasgow and Inverclyde area. New jobs will also be created at the shipyard as a result of FMEL winning the contract, as part of the company’s overall growth strategy.
FMEL will undertake the detailed design and construction work of the new ‘dual fuel’ vessels in Scotland, as well as their testing, equipping, launching and delivery. The new vessels will join the fleet, owned by Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL).
The first ferry is expected to be delivered in May 2018, with the second vessel following a few months later.
Mr Mackay said:
“I’m delighted to help cut the first steel for these new ferries, marking the start of construction on this massive project that has brought large shipbuilding back to the Clyde.
“The Scottish Government is committed to creating the vital jobs needed to boost local economies and help stimulate growth across Scotland. This £97 million contract means FMEL can retain its 150-strong workforce, as well as take on more staff and apprentices.
“The ferries themselves will be welcome additions to the Clyde and Hebrides network, helping the Scottish Government to continue to provide safe and reliable services for the communities that depend on them.
“The vessels will also be ‘dual-fuel ferries’, allowing them to use cleaner fuel and future-proofing them for the advent of tighter regulations around sulphur emissions.
“I look forward to seeing these new ferries join the West Coast ferry fleet in the future.”
FMEL Managing Director, Liam Campbell said:
“Cutting first steel on these two vessels from CMAL signifies an important milestone for the yard and will allow the workforce to steadily grow over the next years. Our new facility will provide highly efficient state-of-the-art shipbuilding and fabrication services to customers in all sectors.
“We look forward to working closely with CMAL and CalMac on this project to ensure world class vessels for a world class owner and operator”.
Erik Østergaard, Chair of CMAL said:
“Today’s steel cutting ceremony marks the first important milestone in the construction of these innovative dual-fuel ferries, as work gets underway to build the first vessel.
“Hulls 801 and 802 will become the latest vessels in our fleet and strengthen our commitment to using cutting edge technology and design to create sustainable and reliable ferries and we look forward to the first of these vessels going into service in 2018. This construction project is the latest step in our ambitious fleet renewal plans to ensure our ferries continue to meet the needs of the communities we serve.”
Background info:
– The ferries are designed to carry 127 cars or 16 HGVs or a combination of both and up to 1,000 passengers. The ships will be capable of operating across a range of drafts and speeds to meet the requirements of the current operator, CalMac Ferries Ltd, to service a wide range of ports and routes.
– The new ferries are earmarked for the Ardrossan-Brodick and the Uig Triangle routes, although the final decision on vessel deployment rests with the ferry operator and will be informed by further analysis of demand on all major routes.
– The ferries will be ‘dual-fuel’ vessels so they can operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine diesel. LNG is significantly cleaner and has been adopted by ferry operators in Northern Europe in response to tighter emissions regulations.
– Each vessel will enter into service following berthing trials, sea trials and crew training, usually 2-3 months after delivery.
Ends.
Steel was cut today for Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd’s two new ferries being built by Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd (FMEL), marking the start of construction on the £97 million vessels.
The steel-cutting ceremony took place at FMEL’s shipyard in Port Glasgow, Scotland, where the ships are being built. Derek Mackay, the Scottish Government’s Minister for Transport and Islands, joined Tom Docherty, CEO of Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) and Liam Campbell from FMEL, to push the button to start the steel cutting machine.
The new 100m, roll on roll off vehicle passenger ferries are designed to carry 127 cars or 16 HGVs or a combination of both and up to 1,000 passengers. They will be owned by CMAL and operated by the current operator of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services, CalMac Ferries Ltd. The ships will be capable of operating across a range of drafts and speeds to meet the requirements of the operator to service a wide range of ports and routes.
The ferries will be dual-fuel vessels so they can operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil. LNG is significantly cleaner and has been adopted by ferry operators in Northern Europe in response to tighter emissions regulations. FMEL will undertake the detailed design and construction work of the new vessels in Scotland, as well as their testing, equipping, launching and delivery.
Erik Østergaard, Chair of CMAL, commented:
“Today’s steel cutting marks an exciting stage of the ferry building process as work gets underway on construction of the first vessel. The vessels are dual-fuel ferries, allowing them to use cleaner fuel and future-proofing them for the advent of tighter regulations around sulphur emissions and allowing greater flexibility over future fuel costs
“The new ferries will provide a lifeline ferry service for the communities they will serve and are currently earmarked for the crossing between Ardrossan and Brodick and on the Uig Triangle route, although the final decision on vessel deployment rests with the ferry operator. We look forward to taking delivery of the ferries in 2018.”
Mr Mackay commented:
“I’m delighted to help cut the first steel for these new ferries, marking the start of construction on this massive project that has brought large shipbuilding back to the Clyde. The Scottish Government is committed to creating the vital jobs needed to boost local economies and help stimulate growth across Scotland. This £97 million contract means FMEL can retain its 150-strong workforce, as well as take on more staff and apprentices.
It is anticipated that the first ferry will launch in October 2017 and is expected to enter service in summer 2018, with the second vessel following a few months later. The vessels are currently known as hulls 801 and 802 and CMAL will run a competition later in the year to name the new ferries.
Additional information on the new vessels:
| Length Overall | 102.4 |
| Beam (inc. belting) | 17.5 |
| Draught | 3.4 |
| Deadweight | 900 |
| No of Cars | 127/136 |
| No of Passengers | 1000 |
| Gross Tonnage | TBC |
| Service Speed | 16.5/14.5 |
| Main Engines | 2 x 3000 kW plus
2 x 920 kW auxiliary |
Notes to Editors
Media contact:
Christina Kelly, Managing Director, Golley Slater
Tel: 0141 548 8222 / 0131 220 8787
Email: ckelly@golleyslater.co.uk
CMAL met with Community Councillors in North Uist this month to deliver a presentation on the two new 100 metre dual fuel ferries. A copy of the presentation is available here (Powerpoint 3mb).
The ferries are designed to operate on either marine diesel or liquefied natural gas (LNG), where benefits will be gained by a marked reduction in CO2 and sulphur and nitreous oxides emissions. They will accommodate 127 cars or 16 HGVs or a combination of both and up to 1,000 passengers. Currently, the vessels are earmarked for the Ardrossan-Brodick and the Uig Triangle routes, although the final decision on routes rests with the current operator, CalMac Ferries Ltd.
On 15 October 2014, Transport Minister, Keith Brown announced that the procurement process to build and design two new ferries for use on the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network had been launched. The ferries are being designed to provide a fully flexible year-round service for Arran and the Uig Triangle, subject to final review by CalMac Ferries Ltd, CMAL and Transport Scotland. The vessels they replace will be cascaded throughout the network.
In October 2015, following a rigorous procurement process, we announced that Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd (FMEL) in Port Glasgow had been awarded the contract worth £97 million to build the two 102 metre dual fuel ferries. FMEL will undertake the detailed design and construction work of the new vessels in Scotland, as well as testing, equipping, launching and delivery. The first ferry is expected to enter service in early 2018, with the second vessel following a few months later.
The ferries will be dual fuel vessels so they can operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine diesel. LNG is significantly cleaner and has been adopted by ferry operators in Northern Europe in response to tighter emissions regulations.
The ships are being designed to carry 127 cars or 16 HGVs or a combination of both and up to 1,000 passengers. The ships will be capable of operating across a range of drafts and speeds to meet the requirements of the current operator, CalMac Ferries Ltd, to service a wide range of ports and routes.
The contract will provide a boost for commercial shipbuilding on the Clyde and follows the shipyard’s delivery of the first two hybrid ferries for the CMAL fleet, with the third due to launch in December 2015.