Construction of seven small vessels for CMAL at Remontowa Shipbuilding moves ahead

FerryWork to build seven new loch-class electric ferries for Scotland’s island communities is progressing, following the keel laying of the first vessel being built under the project at Remontowa Shipbuilding in Gdansk and steel-cutting of the second vessel. The vessels are part of the Small Vessel Replacement Programme (SVRP), which will deliver seven fully electric ferries in this first phase. The vessels will provide improved reliability and resilience for lifeline ferry services across the Clyde and Hebrides network.

The new ferries will serve key routes including Colintraive - Rhubodach, Lochaline -Fishnish, Tarbert - Portavadie, Iona- Fionnphort, Sconser - Raasay, Tobermory - Kilchoan, and Tayinloan - Gigha. Through cascading of existing vessels, the Largs - Cumbrae and Oban - Lismore routes will also benefit.

The contract to build the vessels was awarded to Remontowa in March 2025, following a competitive tender process. SVRP phase one represents a GBP 160 million investment from Scottish Government, with the shipbuilding contract valued at GBP 147.5 million. Delivery of the first vessel is expected in 2027.

The SVRP forms part of CMAL’s wider programme of investment, backed by Scottish Government funding, which will see the new vessels delivered alongside major harbour upgrades across the network.

Six of the ferries can each carry 150 passengers and 24 cars, while one additional ferry can accommodate up to 250 passengers and 16 cars. Thanks to their electric propulsion system, the ferries are capable of zero emission operation with overnight battery charging.

dec 17 2025