Four Shipyards Vie for £200M Scottish Ferry Contract, Sparking Political Debate
Four UK and European shipyards have been shortlisted to build two new Scottish island news ferries, worth £200 million. Ferguson Marine, Cammell Laird, Govan Shipbuilders, and Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft are competing for the contract. However, Turkish and Chinese yards are also in the running, raising concerns among Scottish politicians.
The 'freighter-flex' design chosen for the ferries aims to balance freight capacity and passenger flexibility. Each vessel can carry up to 200 passengers during peak seasons, while primarily serving as harbor freight carriers. The UK Government is investing in Clyde and Rosyth shipyards to boost domestic shipbuilding capacity, yet the tender allows for overseas construction.
MSPs have questioned the decision to consider foreign yards, citing trade agreements and national security concerns. Tender returns are expected in November 2025, with a contract award scheduled for February 2026. The new ferries will replace ageing tonnage on the Aberdeen to Kirkwall and Lerwick routes.
The competition for the £200 million project to build two new Scottish island news ferries is ongoing. The final decision will be made in February 2026, following tender returns in November 2025. The chosen design and potential overseas construction have sparked debate among Scottish politicians.
