LMG Marin has supported the Remontowa shipyard in securing the contract to build seven all-electric small ferries for Scottish ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CMAL).
This newbuilding project is said to mark a major step in modernising Scotland’s ferry network with sustainable and efficient vessels. CMAL awarded the contract to Remontowa in Gdańsk, Poland as part of an international competitive tender in which six shipyards were invited to offer. The first of the seven ferries is scheduled for delivery in 2027. These vessels are provisionally planned to operate on the routes Colintraive – Rhubadoch, Sconser – Raasay, Tarbert – Portavadie, Iona – Fionnphort, Tobermory – Kilchoan, Lochaline – Fishnish and Tayinloan – Gigha.
Duncan Mackison, CalMac CEO said: “Confirming the lead bidder is a significant milestone for CalMac, and we’re excited to welcome new, modern small vessels to the fleet from 2027 onwards. Small vessels are an integral part of our operation, and new tonnage will allow us to improve the resilience of our service, and the experience customers have on these routes. These seven new vessels, when combined with the six major new vessels joining the fleet in 2025 and 2026, will mean a third of our entire fleet has been renewed.”
The new standardised vessels will enhance resilience, accessibility, and route interchangeability. Their fully electric operation will significantly reduce CO2 emissions, providing cleaner local air quality across the network. Infrastructure upgrades across Scotland’s west coast are planned ahead of the vessels’ entry into service.
LMG Marin has been entrusted with the basic design for these vessels. With headquarters in Norway and a strong global presence, LMG Marin has designed over 100 ferries in its 80-year history, including nearly 50 in the last 15 years, including significant experience in zero-emission vessel designs, with more than 20 battery- and hydrogen-powered ferries. LMG Marin ferries operate in Norway, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Canada, Scotland, England, Italy, Canada and Croatia.
Image: Seven all-electric ferries for CMAL will be built by Remontowa to LMG Marin design (source: LMG Marin)
