Letters / Addressing NorthLink Ferries and Transport Scotland’s claims
Dear Shetlanders,
I would like to address a recent claim made by NorthLink Ferries and Transport Scotland regarding the new freight ships planned for service to Lerwick and Hatston, Orkney, expected in 2029. It has been stated that these ships, at 140 metres in length, are the largest that can fit into the Port of Aberdeen. However, this information is not accurate based on historical vessel movements and official port data.
In the past, DFDS Seaways has operated ships such as the Botnia Seaways, which is 162.58 metres long with a beam of 20.62 metres. Additionally, the Patria Seaways, measuring 154 metres long and 24.33 metres in beam, has also loaded cargo and sailed from the Eurolink linkspan at Aberdeen. These vessels are significantly larger than the 140-metre limit currently being suggested.
According to the official Port of Aberdeen website, the maximum permitted dimensions for ships using the old harbour are 165 metres in length and 30 metres in beam. This demonstrates that vessels larger than those proposed by NorthLink Ferries and Transport Scotland have previously and can currently be accommodated at the port.
Furthermore, the Port of Aberdeen’s website states that the North Harbour can handle ships with a draft of up to 8.5 metres. This means that existing vessels such as the Hjaltland and Hrossey ferries could potentially be lengthened and still fit within the port’s capabilities.
It is also important to note that the Eurolink linkspan, being a floating structure, could be relocated to the new harbour if necessary, providing additional flexibility in operations and ship accommodation.
In summary, the available evidence and official port information suggest that larger vessels than those planned for introduction in 2029 are indeed capable of being accommodated at Aberdeen. Any decision regarding ship size should reflect the true capacity of the infrastructure and the needs of the communities served.
It’s time we fight for larger vessels as the port of Aberdeen is very well equipped for it.
Jason Campbell
Lerwick
In response Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), which is the project lead for the new freight-flex ferries, said: “While larger vessels can indeed operate in Aberdeen, they are only allowed to enter in good/ fair weather conditions and require tug assistance to facilitate their movements and berthing.
“While this may be acceptable on an ad hoc basis, it is not realistic for a resilient daily service.”
