Foreign media reports indicate that the tender process for the construction of new ferries for the Northern Isles route in Scotland has commenced.
Four shipbuilders have been selected to progress to invite to tender stage, namely: Turkish shipyard Cemre; Turkish shipyard Tersan; China State Shipbuilding Corporation Guangzhou Shipyard International; Stena UK alongside reliance partner CMJL.
The total budget for this ferry construction project is approximately £200 million (equivalent to $270 million), covering shipbuilding costs and supporting works such as shore power upgrades.
Two new dual-purpose cargo and passenger ferries will be deployed on the Aberdeen to Kirkwall/Lerwick route, with a passenger capacity exceeding that of the currently operating ferries Helliar and Hildasay.
It is reported that the new vessel can carry up to 200 passengers during the peak season, and its cargo capacity will also be improved simultaneously.
Cabinet secretary for transport, Fiona Hyslop, said the Scottish Government was committed to investing in ferries to “better meet the needs of island communities. These new vessels will have increased freight capacity, higher operating speeds, and additional capacity for passengers in peak season. This will enhance the efficiency and reliability of ferry services to better support the needs of businesses and communities in the Northern Isles for years to come. This is an important milestone in our plans to improve ferry services and I look forward to following the progress of this project over the coming months.”
Representatives from Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) stated: “The new vessels will bring a huge increase in freight and passenger capacity, and offers versatility within the fleet. The freighter-flex design allows us to meet both needs: accommodating up to 200 passengers during peak months or alternatively reverting to freight mode to maximise commercial vehicle capacity.”