Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has awarded a contract to build two new freight flex vessels for Scotland’s Northern Isles routes, with construction set to take place at Guangzhou Shipyard International in China.
The vessels, which will replace MV Helliar and MV Hildasay on the Aberdeen to Kirkwall and Lerwick route, are intended to increase freight capacity, improve operating speeds and provide space for up to 200 passengers during peak periods and dry dock cover, according to Transport Scotland.
The contract follows a competitive tender process assessing shipyards on capability, capacity and facilities, with no UK yards submitting bids. Ferguson Marine did not take part, with the 140-metre vessels exceeding the yard’s size constraints.
Delivery of the two ships is currently expected by 2029, with total programme costs estimated at around £200 million, including vessel construction and associated project costs.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said the new vessels respond to long-standing capacity concerns, stating “we heard clearly from islanders and stakeholders the need for improved freight and cabin capacity,” adding that the ships would enhance “the resilience and reliability of the Northern Isles ferry services for years to come.”
CMAL chief executive Kevin Hobbs described the award as “a significant milestone in delivering the replacement vessels,” adding that the ships would provide “a vital boost to freight capacity” and support more reliable passenger services.
Guangzhou Shipyard International president William Zhou said the company recognised “the strategic importance of these new freight flex vessels” and would deliver vessels designed to be “reliable, efficient… and environmentally responsible.”
The procurement was led by CMAL as the contracting authority, with Scottish ministers not directly involved in the tender decision.
shocking decision by the Scots government. Short sighted and definitely not in the national interest
No real shock, It was the only realistic option.
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