Transport / ‘Great news’ as procurement process starts for two new freight ferries
A PROCUREMENT process is officially underway for two new freight-flex vessels to serve the Northern Isles ferry route.
The Scottish Government confirmed in Holyrood today (Wednesday) that funding has been identified in the 2025/26 budget for the freight ferry replacements.
The freight-flex option will bring improved freight capacity, higher operating speed and the flexibility to provide space for up to 200 passengers to travel at peak times.
A competitive tender process to replace both the Helliar and Hildasay will now get underway, with hopes to award the contract in February 2026.
Transport secretary Fiona Hyslop confirmed the news and said the Scottish Government is “fully committed” to investing in all of its lifeline ferry services.
She said the new ferries “will enhance the efficiency and reliability of ferry services to best meet the needs of the businesses and communities in the Northern Isles for years to come”.
“The start of this procurement 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,” Hyslop added.
Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) chief executive Kevin Hobbs called the news “an important step forward in strengthening the long-term resilience of the Northern Isles services.”
“We look forward to receiving bids that demonstrate innovation, efficiency and the ability to deliver reliable vessels that will support a more adaptable and robust service for years to come,” he added.
Shetland’s MSP Beatrice Wishart said the news was “welcome”, but added islanders would “continue to face constrained capacity for several years” while the work progressed.
“The Scottish Government should have made these plans earlier to ensure a smooth transition and increase in the capacity on the Northern Isles route to meet growing demand,” the Liberal Democrat politician said.
“What the space for 200 passengers looks like on the new vessels remains to be seen but if it’s 200 pods for an overnight crossing then I expect there will be uproar.”
SNP MSPfor the Highlands and Islands Emma Roddick said today’s announcement was “great news”.
“This will make such a difference to capacity on the route and promote resilience even when there are issues with weather or other disruption.
“This news shows that the Scottish Government continues to listen to and invest in the future of our island communities.”
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