This first stage of the tendering process aims to establish expressions of interest from the industry for taking on the work. A full tender of the work is dependent on the outcome of this first stage plus confirmation of funding from the Scottish Government. Phase 1 of the Ferry Replacement Programme is for three replacement 60-metres RoPax ferries serving the islands of Eday, Sanday, Stronsay and Westray, providing increased passenger, vehicle and freight capacity for the islands and significantly improved passenger facilities, with accessibility noted as a key requirement for the design.

The tender will also include an option to build a fourth ferry of the same design subject to suitability for the South Isles network serving the islands of Hoy and Flotta. Significant consultation has been carried out across isles communities and Orkney Ferries crew to establish an outline design, which was subsequently agreed by in October by Orkney’s Development and Infrastructure Committee.

Interested parties must submit interest by 9 January 2026 with evaluation of submissions to be completed before release of the Invitation to Tender documentation towards the end of January 2026 for shortlisted yards.

A confirmed build programme will be outlined to communities following completion of the tender process and contract award. Work on Phase 2 is ongoing and will see specifications developed for a large vessel for the South Isles, plus two smaller vessels for Papa Westray and North Ronaldsay and Graemsay and North Hoy. Specifications for two medium sized vessels will also be provided for Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre and for Shapinsay, noting a need for increased capacity on those routes.

© Shippax

© Knud E. Hansen