LORD OF THE ISLES © Frank Lose

Ferguson Marine chooses not to bid on the latest tender from CMAL

YardScotland’s publicly owned shipyard, Ferguson Marine, says it has been unable to bid to build a replacement for the LORD OF THE ISLES (a tender reported here in the May issue) due to eligibility rules set by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL). The yard argues the criteria effectively exclude UK shipbuilders. The GMB union has urged CMAL - owned by the Scottish Government - to pause and review the process.

CMAL maintains its selection system is designed to deliver the best outcome for island communities. To compete for publicly funded contracts, shipyards must first complete a Single Procurement Document Scotland, after which CMAL shortlists around six firms to submit full bids. The latest criteria require at least two vessels over 75 metres delivered in the past five years, excluding ongoing projects - a change from previous tenders.

Ferguson Marine delivered the GLEN SANNOX in 2024, but its sister vessel, GLEN ROSA, is still under construction. The two ferries was/is massively delayed related to the original contract. The yard has confirmed it will not bid, stating the criteria and lack of weighting for domestic economic value put UK shipbuilders at a disadvantage compared to subsidised international competitors.

apr 27 2026