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Solarachadh, Dìon is
Leasachadh Aiseagan is Calaidhean

New Vessels for Islay

A project to build two new vessels for use on Islay routes

About the project
Latest news

About this project

In April 2018, Scottish Ministers announced that Islay would be next in line for new vessels to replace the MV Hebridean Isles. The new vessels will complement MV Finlaggan, although it will be designed with a clear focus on freight, and sufficient passenger accommodation will be designed to meet anticipated demand.

Latest news

Contact us

To get in touch with us about this project, please email:

islayvessel@cmassets.co.uk

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New Islay vessel visual

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Aerial view of crane and works at Kennacraig

Islay vessel enabling works

Upgrades at Port Askaig, Colonsay and Kennacraig

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Aerial view of Port Ellen

Port Ellen Terminal Development

Improving the port for ferries and commercial use

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View of Port Ellen pier

Port Ellen Harbour Legislation

Harbour Revision Order to provide consent for works

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Latest news

MV Isle of Islay completes second sea trials

MV Isle of Islay completes second sea trials

22 Iuchar 2025

A second set of sea trials for MV Isle of Islay have been carried out by Cemre Marin Endustri in Yalova, Turkey.

The trials took place in the Sea of Marmara from Wednesday, 16th July to Sunday, 20th July, and were attended by staff from CMAL and CalMac.

Included in the trials were the set-up and testing of the battery energy storage system (BESS), as well as the testing and optimisation of the power management system (PMS) and energy management system (EMS).

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL, said:

“The successful testing of the hybrid system marks a significant step forward in completing this new vessel for Islay and Jura.

“The team at Cemre have made good progress in the build programme for the vessel, and we continue to work closely with the shipyard as we move into the final stages of the build.”

The vessel has returned to the Cemre Marin Endustri quayside, where she is undergoing further outfitting work. The vessel is due to be delivered in Q3 of 2025.

An MV An t-Eilean Ìleach a’ coileanadh nan ciad deuchainnean mara gu soirbheachail

An MV An t-Eilean Ìleach a’ coileanadh nan ciad deuchainnean mara gu soirbheachail

5 Ògmhios 2025

Tha na ciad deuchainnean mara aig an MV An t-Eilean Ìleach air an coileanadh gu soirbheachail le Cemre Marin Endustri ann an Yalova san Tuirc. 

Ghabh na deuchainnean àite bho Dhiardaoin 22mh Cèitean gu Dihaoine 30mh Cèitean, ann am Muir Marmara, le luchd-obrach bho CMAL agus CalMac an làthair. 

Chunnaic a’ chiad phàirt de na deuchainnean mara stèidheachadh air na siostaman ro-iomain, gineadairean, putairean, bunailtirean agus na siostaman dealain co-cheangailte.  Chaidh iad sin fheuchainn a-mach, a dheuchainn agus an tomhas le Clàr Lloyd agus Buidheann na Mara ’s nam Maor-cladaich (MCA) an làthair. 

Bha na deuchainnean a’ luachadh gnìomhadh an t-soithich le làn luachd, a’ gabhail a-steach luaths, seasmhachd, comas gluasaid, cleachdadh/togail acair agus fulangas. Stèidhich na deuchainnean èifeachdas plannt ro-iomain an t-soithich, agus na siostaman fèin-obrachas is iùil.

Thuirt Jim MacAnndrais, Stiùiriche Shoithichean aig CMAL:

“Is e fìor cheum air adhart a tha seo ann am prògram togail An t-Eilean Ìleach. Tha an sgioba aig Cemre ag obair cruaidh ag ullachadh an t-soithich airson a lìbhrigeadh. Tha faireachdainn math de dh’astar-gluasaid an làthair a’ leantainn air crìoch shoirbheachail air a’ chiad ìre de dheuchainnean mara.” 

Bidh an dàrna cuairt de dheuchainnean mara a’ gabhail àite nas fhaide air adhart as t-samhradh, a’ leantainn stàlachadh air siostam bataraidh an t-soithich agus deuchainnean ion-ghabhail calaidh air an t-siostam tar-chinealach.  

CMAL a’ foillseachadh farpais ealain sgoiltean agus a’ cur fàilte a dh’Alba air aiseagan ùra Ìle

CMAL a’ foillseachadh farpais ealain sgoiltean agus a’ cur fàilte a dh’Alba air aiseagan ùra Ìle

28 Dàmhair 2024

Tha clann sgoile ann an Ìle agus Diùra air cuireadh fhaotainn gu com-pàirt a ghabhail ann am farpais gus am pìosan ealain a thaisbeanadh air bòrd MV An t-Eilean Ìleach agus MV Loch an Dàil.

Ro-làimh air an dà aiseag ùr a thighinn a dh’Ìle, tha Stòras Mara Cailleannach Earranta (CMAL) a’ coimhead airson ochd pìosan de dh’obair-ealain mun eilean bho na còig bun-sgoiltean agus an àrd-sgoil ionadail, a’ gabhail a-steach: Bun-sgoil nan Eilean Bheaga, Bun-sgoil na Cille, Bun-sgòil Phort Sgioba, Bun-sgoil Phort Ilein, Bun-sgoil Bhogha Mòr agus Àrd-Sgoil Ìle.

Tha an fharpais fosgailte do sgoilearan ann an ceithir bhuidhnean aoise: prìomh 1-3, prìomh 4-7, ÀS 1-3, agus ÀS 4-6. Aon uair ’s gu bheil na buannaichean air an taghadh, gheibh iad cuireadh a dhol air bòrd gach aon de na soithichean aig àm nan cuirmean tòiseachaidh a dh’fhaicinn an obair-ealain air a thaisbeanadh.

Gheibh na h-ochd buannaichean duais co-cheangailte ri ealain, a bhios air a bhuileachadh aig a’ chuirm tòiseachaidh, agus bidh cothrom aig aon bhuannaiche thar chàich air carthannas ionadail a thaghadh airson tabhartas £1,500 fhaotainn bho CMAL tron sgoil.

Thuirt Chris Kane, cuidiche gnìomha aig CMAL:

“Tha com-pàirt dhaoine òga anns an t-seòrsa seo de dh’fharpais, chan ann a-mhàin ag àrach an tàlantan cruthachail, ach cuideachd gan cur an aithne don àite chudromach a tha aig a’ ghnìomhachas mara ann an Alba.”

“Is e gnìomhachas a th’ ann a tha a’ tabhann chothroman mìorbhaileach do dhaoine òga a rannsachadh. Tha an fharpais seo a’ cuideachadh le sin a thaisbeanadh, agus aig an aon àm a’ ceadachadh don choimhearsnachd a bhith na pàirt den fhàilte air na h-aiseagan ùra don choimhearsnachd ann an Ìle.”

Bidh an fharpais a’ gabhail ri tagraidhean gu deireadh na Samhna, agus thèid na buannaichean ainmeachadh san Dùbhlachd.

Tha Ceann na Creige agus Port Asgaig a’ ruighinn chlachan-mhìle ann an ullachadh airson soithichean Ìle

Tha Ceann na Creige agus Port Asgaig a’ ruighinn chlachan-mhìle ann an ullachadh airson soithichean Ìle

8 Lùnastal 2024

Tha sinn duilich, chan eil an t-susbaint seo ri fhaotainn gu làithreach ann an Gàidhlig.

A programme of CMAL-led preparatory work to upgrade two ferry terminals on the Islay route has reached key milestones, paving the way for delivery of new vessels by the end of the year.

Upgrades to the south berth of Kennacraig ferry terminal are now complete, while Port Askaig ferry terminal fendering work has also finished, following a six-week closure, allowing ferry services to resume.

The CMAL-led project team of contractors George Leslie Ltd, Napier Bros Engineers and Malin Group, and engineering consultants, Mott MacDonald, have installed vital infrastructure upgrades at both Kennacraig and Port Askaig to accommodate the new Islay vessels – MV Isle of Islay and MV Loch Indaal.

Four people in hard hats and high-vis onsite at Kennacraig

Left to right: Andrew Laverty, Site Manager from George Leslie Ltd; Tony Fry, Construction Manager from George Leslie Ltd; Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity; Nasir Uddin, Project Manager from CMAL

Throughout the closure, CalMac operated amended timetables for the Kennacraig – Port Ellen – Port Askaig and Oban – Colonsay – Port Askaig services to support travellers and communities on Islay, Jura and Colonsay.

 

Kennacraig

Preparatory work began in November 2023 at Kennacraig, which included modification of the fixed ramp on the north berth. In January 2024, the south berth was closed to replace existing fenders, build of new piled walls, undertake dredging and remove and refurbish the linkspan. During this time, all ferry services were operating from the north berth.

After being removed for refurbishment, the linkspan has now been reinstated and is ready for ferry services to resume, with the project completed two weeks ahead of schedule. Services will now operate on the south berth, while works on the north berth, including wall construction, fender replacement, re-profiling of the fixed ramp and dredging works commence.

Preparing middle dolphin for fenders
Vessel berthed alongside crane at Kennacraig
LARA 1 crane lifting linkspan deck
Aerial photo of Kennacraig with a crane in place at the berth

Port Askaig

At Port Askaig, work began in March this year with the replacement of the existing fenders, installation of piles and concrete foundations for a mooring aid, and additional electrical upgrades. The fendering work was carried out between ferry arrivals and departures causing no disruptions to services.

Aerial view of Port Askaig whilst work is ongoing

In June, a six-week full port closure was implemented to replace the fenders on the roundhead structure and after successful installation of these fenders, Port Askaig was reopened on 31 July as scheduled. The ongoing mooring aid foundation and electrical works will continue without any disruption to services.

View of new PMFs from the water
Workers removing PMFs
Port Askaig aerial photo
New berthing fenders
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Meticulous planning ensured the safe lifting and transportation of the linkspan from Kennacraig. Given the challenges involved, this is a significant milestone for the project, completed ahead of schedule.

With work continuing on the north berth at Kennacraig and on schedule for completion at Port Askaig and Colonsay this autumn, we’d like to thank everyone involved in the delivery of this project, especially the local communities for their patience and cooperation as we strive to enhance port infrastructure ahead of the arrival of the two new Islay vessels.

—Ramsay Muirhead
Director of Port Infrastructure and Planning at CMAL

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I’m very pleased to see this important work completed and both harbours ready for the arrival of the MV Islay of Islay and MV Loch Indaal.

I used the ferry service on my way to the Islay show and to meet with local businesses on the island, and it was great to see the finished works at the south port at Kennacraig and meet the hard-working harbour staff in person.

The completion of these port upgrades marks another important milestone in the Scottish Government’s commitment to delivering six new major vessels into service by 2026.

Communities and businesses on Islay and Jura will be looking forward to a more resilient and modern ferry service, as well as upgraded harbour facilities, with further vessels set to bring similar improvements to other parts of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network in the future.

—Jim Fairlie
Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity
(Following his visit to Kennacraig ferry terminal to see the reopening of the south berth)

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We were delighted to welcome Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie MSP, to Kennacraig for a site visit. Despite the rain, the Minister and Transport Scotland gained valuable insights into the scale of the project and the dedication of our team. Their visit was a welcome opportunity to showcase our progress and highlight the engineering challenges we are overcoming to deliver.

Port Askaig is making excellent headway, with the team successfully balancing engineering demands with the critical need for a ferry service. Although closing the harbour for a short window was necessary to conduct the works, we are grateful for the patience of the local community.

—Tony Fry
Construction Director at George Leslie

The first vessel for Islay and Jura, MV Isle of Islay, is due to arrive in Scotland at the end of the year, with MV Loch Indaal scheduled for arrival in February 2025.

Learn more about the new ferries for Islay

In April 2018, Scottish Ministers announced that Islay would be next in line for new vessels to replace the MV Hebridean Isles.

View project
MV Loch an Dàil: An dàrna aiseag Ìleach air a cur air bhog gu soirbheachail

MV Loch an Dàil: An dàrna aiseag Ìleach air a cur air bhog gu soirbheachail

8 Ògmhios 2024

Tha sinn duilich, chan eil an t-susbaint seo ri fhaotainn gu làithreach ann an Gàidhlig.

MV Loch Indaal was launched today (Saturday 8 June) at Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard in Yalova, Turkey.

The vessel is the second of four ferries being built at the yard and will serve Islay and Jura alongside sister vessel, MV Isle of Islay, which was launched in March.

The launch marks continued progress in Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited’s (CMAL) commitment to delivering new ferries to serve the Scottish islands.

Representatives of CMAL and key project stakeholders were in attendance to witness Elaine Anderson, wife of CMAL’s Director of Vessels, Jim Anderson, officially launch the ferry.

Scheduled for delivery in February 2025, MV Loch Indaal will significantly boost capacity on the Islay routes, with the ability to accommodate up to 450 passengers and 100 cars, or 14 commercial vehicles. This addition will increase vehicle and freight capacity by 40% on the Islay routes, strengthening the overall fleet’s resilience.

MV Loch Indaal on the water in Turkey

The vessel will now undergo further outfitting and preparations in the water before comprehensive sea trials take place. Once complete, the vessel will be handed over to owners, CMAL.

Upon its arrival from Turkey, MV Loch Indaal will undergo crew familiarisation and local operational trials before entering service.

An official naming ceremony will take place on Islay early next year, where stakeholders and community representatives will be invited to board and tour the vessel to celebrate its arrival before it officially joins the fleet.

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The successful launch of MV Loch Indaal represents another major achievement in our shipyard construction program. Following the launches of MV Isle of Islay and MV Glen Rosa earlier this year, it is wonderful to see another vessel in the water.

We look forward to the ferry’s completion and delivery, and to seeing the positive impact she will have on our communities as she enters service next year.

—Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive Officer at CMAL

MV Loch Indaal on the slipway
MV Loch Indaal launch
MV Loch Indaal launched on the water
MV Loch Indaal launched on the watera
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This is another important milestone in the Scottish Government’s commitment to delivering six new major vessels into service by 2026.

“I have no doubt the communities and businesses on Islay and Jura are looking forward to a more resilient and modern ferry service, with further vessels set to bring similar improvements to other parts of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network.

—Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Transport.

MV Loch Indaal on the slipway
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We welcome the launch of MV Loch Indaal and are looking forward to the vessel joining the CalMac fleet. Her addition will increase resilience and will also significantly increase the number of passengers and vehicles we can carry on the Islay route.

“With six new major vessels due to join the fleet by 2026 and significant infrastructure upgrades at numerous ports and harbours underway or planned, we are confident that lifeline ferry services for Islay and across the network will continue to improve.

—Duncan Mackison, Interim Chief Executive of CalMac

The first vessel for Islay and Jura, MV Isle of Islay, is due to arrive in Scotland at the end of the year, with MV Loch Indaal scheduled for arrival in February 2025.

Learn more about the new ferries for Islay

In April 2018, Scottish Ministers announced that Islay would be next in line for new vessels to replace the MV Hebridean Isles.

View project
Chaidh an MV Eilean Ìle a chuir air bhog gu soirbheachail

Chaidh an MV Eilean Ìle a chuir air bhog gu soirbheachail

16 Màrt 2024

Chaidh an MV Eilean Île, a’ chiad de dhà shoitheach a’ frithealadh Ìle is Diùra, a chuir air bhog Disathairne 16 Màrt aig gàrradh-iarainn Cemre Marin Endustri ann an Yalova, An Tuirc.

Tha an t-soitheach, a tha mar aon de cheithir aiseagan a tha gan togail sa ghàrradh, a’ comharrachadh clach-mhìle chudromach a thaobh gealltanas Stòras Mara Cailleannach Eta (CMAL) air aiseagan ùra a lìbhrigeadh airson a bhith a’ frithealadh eileanan na h-Alba.

Bha riochdairean bho CMAL agus prìomh luchd-ùidhe a’ phròiseict an làthair, agus chuir Mòrag NicNèill, Cathraiche CMAL, an aiseag air bhog gu foirmeil.

Artist's impression of new Islay vessel

Clàraichte airson a lìbhrigeadh san Dàmhair 2024, bidh comas-lìonaidh aig an t-soitheach de suas ri 450 neach-siubhail agus 100 càr, no 14 charbadan coimearsalta. Bheir i seachad meudachadh amalaichte de 40% ann an comas charbadan is luchd air slighean Ìle, a’ toirt togail do fhulangas iomlan a’ chabhlaich san fharsaingeachd.

Leanaidh an obair air bòrd an t-soithich fhad ’s a tha i san uisge, mus tèid a cur fo dheuchainnean mara agus a’ sìneadh thairis gu a sealbhadairean, CMAL. Bidh an criutha a’ cur eòlas oirre agus deuchainnean obrachaidh ionadail a’ gabhail àite an uair sin nuair a ruigeas i às an Tuirc, mus tèid an MV Eilean Ìle a chur ann an seirbheis.

Bidh seirbheis ainmeachaidh oifigeil a’ gabhail àite faisg air deireadh na bliadhna, nuair a gheibh riochdairean coimhearsnachd agus luchd-ùidhe cuireadh air bòrd agus cuairt a ghabhail tron t-soitheach mar chomharrachadh air i a bhith air ruighinn, mus bi i mar aon den chabhlach gu h-oifigeil.

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Tha cur-air-bhog oifigeil An MV Eilean Ìle a’ comharrachadh prìomh chlach-mhìle ann an slighe-togail na soithich. Tha e mìorbhaileach a faicinn san uisge. Tha sinn a’ coimhead air adhart ri ainmeachadh oifigeil na h-aiseig a chomharrachadh, MV Eilean Ìle, aig an tachartas nas fhaide air adhart am-bliadhna agus sinn a’ cur fàilte oirre do dh’uisgeachan na h-Alba.

—Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive Officer at CMAL

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’S e clach-mhìle chudromach eile a tha seo a thaobh gealltanas Riaghaltas na h-Alba air sia prìomh shoithichean ùra a liubhairt a bhios a’ frithealadh lìonra Chluaidh is Innse Gall ro 2026.

Leis an MV Eilean Ìle ag adhartachadh a dh’ionnsaigh a lìbhrigeadh san Dàmhair, agus a piuthar an MV Loch an Dàil goirid às dèidh sin, faodaidh luchd-cleachdaidh nan aiseagan coimhead air adhart ri seirbheisean a bhios nas earbsaich agus nas fhulangaich le comas-lìonaidh meudaichte air slighean Ìle bho 2025. Tha mi a’ coimhead air adhart ri iad sin fhaicinn agus ri barrachd shoithichean a bhith gan cur ris a’ chabhlach sna bliadhnaicheana tha romhainn, a’ toirt leasachaidhean gu coimhearsnachdan nan eilean air feadh lìonra Chluaidh agus Innse Gall.

—Fiona Hyslop, An Rùnaire Caibineit airson Còmhdhail.  

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Tha sinn a’ coimhead air adhart gu mòr ri fàilte a chur air an MV Eilean Ìle don chabhlach againn. Nuair a thig i gu bhith ann an seirbheis, lìbhrigidh i atharrachadh bunaiteach ann am fulangas agus comas-lìonaidh do choimhearsnachd Ìle, a’ comasachadh fàs san àm ri teachd.

—Robbie Drummond, Chief Executive of CalMac

Tha an dàrna soitheach airson slighe Ìle ri bhith ga cur air bhog ann an Cemre nas fhaide air adhart am-bliadhna.

🗣️ Ann am Beurla

Learn more about the new ferries for Islay

In April 2018, Scottish Ministers announced that Islay would be next in line for new vessels to replace the MV Hebridean Isles.

View project
IVEW: Colonsay public engagement event

IVEW: Colonsay public engagement event

23 Gearran 2024

CMAL is leading plans to upgrade infrastructure at Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Colonsay ferry terminals for the arrival of new ferries, MV Isle of Islay and MV Loch Indaal. CMAL is hosting a series of events to update communities on the progress of these vessels and the planned construction works—the latest of which will be held in the Colonsay Village Hall on Tuesday, 27 February 2024, at 16:00–19:00.

Engineers from CMAL’s project team will be in attendance, alongside representatives from CalMac and Transport Scotland to share details of the proposed construction plans for the ferry terminals. They will also discuss timescales and any potential changes to services.

Everyone with an interest is encouraged to drop-in at a time and location convenient to them.

MV Isle of Islay official launch date announced

MV Isle of Islay official launch date announced

12 Faoilleach 2024

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has announced the launch of MV Isle of Islay on 16 March 2024 at the Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard in Yalova, Turkey.

It is the first of four ferries being built at the yard, and marks a major milestone in CMAL’s commitment to delivering new ferries to serve the Scottish islands—with the hull now structurally complete, all blocks for the vessel have been erected and surveyed.

Artist's impression of new Islay vessel

The launch will see the vessel move from the slipway into the water, where work will continue onboard. In line with the shipyard build programme, the vessel will remain on the slipway until March, where installation of pipework, equipment, machinery, electrical works, and outfitting will be progressed. Subsequently, underwater hull coatings will be applied, and propulsors installed before launching.

The ferry, which will serve Islay and Jura, is set to be delivered in October 2024. Following the transit from Turkey, it will undergo crew familiarisation and local operational trials before it enters service.

An official naming ceremony will take place on Islay towards the end of the year, where community representatives and stakeholders will be invited to board and tour the vessel to celebrate its arrival before it officially joins the fleet.

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Work at the Cemre shipyard continues to progress well, with the project coming in on time and on budget. We look forward to witnessing the launch, which is a major milestone in the vessel’s construction.

We look forward to celebrating with the community towards the end of the year, where the vessel will be officially given its name, MV Isle of Islay.

—Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL

MV Isle of Islay—Under construction in Turkey
MV Isle of Islay—Under construction in Turkey
MV Isle of Islay—Under construction in Turkey
MV Isle of Islay—Under construction in Turkey
Artist's impression of new Islay vessel
MV Isle of Islay—Under construction in Turkey
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I’m pleased that the MV Isle of Islay will be launched at the Cemre Shipyard in March. Delivering six new major vessels to serve Scotland’s ferry network by 2026 is a priority for this government and this is an important milestone as part of that commitment.

Ahead of entering service later this year, I look forward joining the community as we celebrate and officially name the new vessel. People will look forward to a more resilient and modern ferry service for Islay and Jura and further vessels will soon bring similar and highly anticipated improvements for Island communities across Scotland.

—Minister for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP

The new ferry will have a clear focus on freight, as well as sufficient passenger accommodation to meet anticipated demand, with capacity for up to 450 passengers and 100 cars, or 14 commercial vehicles.

This will provide a combined 40% increase in vehicle and freight capacity on the Islay routes and will improve the overall resilience of the wider fleet.

Learn more about the new ferries for Islay

In April 2018, Scottish Ministers announced that Islay would be next in line for new vessels to replace the MV Hebridean Isles.

View project
Public events announced—Port enabling works for the new Islay vessels

Public events announced—Port enabling works for the new Islay vessels

4 Faoilleach 2024

CMAL is leading plans to upgrade infrastructure at Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Colonsay ferry terminals for the arrival of new ferries, MV Isle of Islay and MV Loch Indaal. CMAL is hosting a series of events to update communities on the progress of these vessels and the planned construction works:

Date Event Venue Event Time Event Notes
Wednesday 10/01/2024 Islay Gaelic Centre/Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle 16:00–19:00 This event will be an in-person drop-in session
Thursday 11/01/2024 Jura Village Hall 14:00–17:00 This event will be an in-person drop-in session

Engineers from CMAL’s project team will be in attendance, alongside representatives from CalMac, Transport Scotland and Argyll & Bute Council, to share details of the proposed construction plans for the ferry terminals. They will also discuss timescales and any potential changes to services.

Everyone with an interest is encouraged to drop-in at a time and location convenient to them.

For those unable to attend in person, materials presented at the events will subsequently be made available on this webpage.

A further meeting will be held in Colonsay in late February—details to be confirmed in due course.

Find out more about this project ›

Preparatory works begin at Kennacraig to enable new Islay vessels

10 Samhain 2023

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is leading plans to upgrade infrastructure at ferry terminals for the arrival of MV Isle of Islay and MV Loch Indaal, which are scheduled for delivery in late 2024 and early 2025. The upgrades at Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Colonsay include dredging, strengthening works, fendering, provision of a mooring aid and shore power facilities.

Works are planned to commence at Kennacraig later this year, with works at Port Askaig and Colonsay starting in Spring 2024. Ahead of the main works starting at Kennacraig, contractor George Leslie Ltd will establish a site compound and carry out some minor preparatory works starting on-site from Monday 13 November 2023.

The preparatory works will have minimal impact on the ferry terminal and scheduled ferry services will continue to operate. The main works have been planned in phases to allow ferry services to continue to operate. Initially, the south (linkspan) berth will be closed and the linkspan removed for the works to progress; the north (fixed ramp) berth will be improved ahead of this and will be available for the ferry service during this phase.  During the second phase, works will swap to the north berth and the ferry service will operate solely from the south berth during this period until works are completed.

Throughout the works it is intended that Kennacraig shall remain open for scheduled ferry services, as one berth will always be available.

We aim to keep the public up-to-date and will publish further updates as work progresses.

Community invited to find out about proposals for ferry terminal improvements

Community invited to find out about proposals for ferry terminal improvements

18 Dàmhair 2023

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is hosting a series of events to update communities on the planned construction work at Colonsay, Kennacraig and Port Askaig ferry terminals.

In preparation for the arrival of MV Isle of Islay and MV Loch Indaal, work to upgrade the ferry terminals will include dredging, fendering, provision for mooring aids and shore power facilities.

At the events, CMAL engineers and representatives from CalMac and Transport Scotland will share details of the proposed construction plans for each ferry terminal. They will also discuss high-level timescales and potential changes to services.

The events will take place at:

  • Tarbert Village Hall
    Tuesday 24 October 2023, 4:00–7:00pm
  • Islay Gaelic Centre/Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle
    Wednesday 10 January 2024, 4:00–7:00pm
  • Jura Village Hall
    Thursday 11 January 2024, 2:00–5:00pm
  • Colonsay Village Hall
    Tuesday 27 February 2024, 4:00–7:00pm

Nasir Uddin, senior civil engineer at CMAL said:

“These events allow us to keep island communities and ferry users up-to-date with construction plans.

“This essential upgrade work at each harbour will help us to accommodate the new Islay ferries, each due for delivery at the end of 2024 and early 2025, respectively. We encourage everyone with an interest to drop in at a time and location convenient to them.”

For anyone who is unable to attend, proposals and presentations will be published on CMAL’s website following the events. Please visit our project page.

A major terminal upgrade project is also underway at Port Ellen Ferry Terminal. Its terminal development project will increase the vehicle marshalling area, increase staff and visitor parking, improve port operations for commercial use, improve passenger access to vessels, and deliver a new terminal building.

IVEW: New Islay Vessel Enabling Works project update

IVEW: New Islay Vessel Enabling Works project update

18 Cèitean 2023

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is leading plans to upgrade infrastructure at ferry terminals before the delivery of two new Islay ferries. The upgrades include dredging, strengthening works, fendering, provision of mooring aids and shore power facilities.

The detailed design phase for the enabling works is now complete, and the procurement process for the construction works is underway, with a contract notice now live on the Public Contract Scotland (PCS) website.

Tenders will be received for the works at Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Colonsay, which are due to be submitted by the end of July. A contract award is expected by the end of August after CMAL evaluates the tenders and the necessary stand-still period is observed. CMAL will share more detailed plans for the works before they commence.

A major redevelopment project for the Port Ellen ferry terminal is already underway, which aims to provide the required marshalling capacity to accommodate the existing and new Islay vessels. It will significantly improve traffic management and safety, pedestrian access, and enhance active and sustainable travel options for all users. The plans include the creation of a new ferry terminal, an additional commercial berth that will considerably improve the resilience of the ferry service, and a segregated area for commercial activity at Port Ellen. Therefore, further enabling works are not currently required to be investigated under this New Islay Vessel Enabling Works project.

A business case for the Port Ellen terminal development project is being finalised, and CMAL will continue to monitor the need for enabling works at Port Ellen, depending on the outcome of the business case process.

New Names for Islay Vessels Decided by Public Vote

18 Cèitean 2023

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has today announced Isle of Islay and Loch Indaal as the names for the two new ferries to serve Islay and Jura following a public vote.

Artist's impression of new Islay vessel

CMAL, which owns the ferries, produced a shortlist of names, each of which has ties to the landscape and history of Islay and Jura, and those with an interest in the ferries were encouraged to vote over a two–week period.

Over 1,300 votes were cast, with Isle of Islay being the most popular name, and Loch Indaal and Pioneer in close second and third place.

Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL said: “We had an excellent response to our public naming vote, and I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone who got involved. We had a strong list of names to choose from, with Isle of Islay and Loch Indaal coming out on top as clear favourites amongst voters.

“Work is progressing well at Cemre Shipyard on the sister ferries, and we look forward to seeing Isle of Islay and Loch Indaal out on the network serving communities in the not-too-distant future. We’re expecting delivery towards the end of 2024 for vessel one, and early 2025 for vessel two.”

Minister for Transport Kevin Stewart said: “It’s great to see the public choose two fitting names for these new ferries, and I very much look forward to seeing the MV Isle of Islay and MV Loch Indaal enter service on the Islay routes.

“These links are some of the busiest services for freight on the Clyde and Hebrides network so the vessels will bring welcome additional capacity, reliability, and resilience for our island communities.

“These new vessels underline the Scottish Government’s commitment to bringing in new ferries and we want to continue to see progress on bringing vessels into service on time and budget.”

The two new ferries will have a clear focus on freight, as well as sufficient passenger accommodation to meet anticipated demand, with capacity for up to 450 passengers and 100 cars, or 14 commercial vehicles. This will provide a combined 40% increase in vehicle and freight capacity on the Islay routes and will improve the overall resilience of the wider fleet.

The Islay ferries form part of a programme of investment by CMAL, funded through Scottish Government commitments to capital investment of around £700 million in ferry infrastructure and related services over the five years from 2021 to 2026.  Wider plans will deliver other new small and major vessels for the fleet and upgrades of harbour infrastructure with future options being considered through the emerging Islands Connectivity Plan.

TWO NEW FERRIES FOR ISLAY REACH NEXT CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE

13 Faoilleach 2023

The construction of two new ferries for Islay reached key construction milestones this week.

The first ferry in the production timeline has had its keel laid, while steel-cutting for the second vessel has also begun – three weeks earlier than planned.

A ceremony to mark both events took place at Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard in Turkey, where the two vessels are being built for Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL).

The new, 94.8-metre vehicle/passenger ferries will each have capacity for up to 450 passengers and 100 cars or 14 commercial vehicles, providing a combined 40% increase in vehicle and freight capacity on the Islay routes and improving the overall resilience of the wider fleet.

The first vessel is expected to be delivered by October 2024 and will enter service following sea trials and crew familiarisation. The second will follow in early 2025.

Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said:  “This is a very welcome milestone for this vital project, which brings us another step closer to adding new ferries to the fleet serving the Clyde and Hebrides.

“The Islay ferry routes are some of the busiest services for freight on the west coast and the new vessels will help to grow the island’s economy, as well as bring added resilience to the wider network.

“The Scottish Government is committed to commissioning new ferries to support our island communities, and it’s encouraging to see progress on bringing these vessels into service on time and budget.”

Jim Anderson, director of vessels at CMAL, added:

“The Cemre yard is delivering what it said it would, reaching two important milestones within the agreed timeline.

“Keel laying is a significant milestone in the ship’s life, marking the start of the construction of the vessel, fitting the first of many units to be fabricated and erected during construction.   And the fact that we are getting underway with the second ferry means the shipyard’s pipeline approach is working well, following many hours of intensive design and development.”

The £91 million contract to build the two ferries was awarded by CMAL to Cemre Marin Endustri in Turkey in March 2022 following a competitive tender.

The Islay vessels form part of a programme of investment by CMAL, funded through Scottish Government commitments to capital investment of around £700 million in ferry infrastructure and related services over the five years from 2021 to 2026.  Wider plans will deliver other new small and major vessels for the fleet and upgrades of harbour infrastructure with future options and being considered through the emerging Islands Connectivity Plan.

Carbon reduction has been a key factor in vessel design and the new ferries are expected to deliver a significant reduction in emissions.

FIRST MAJOR BUILD MILESTONE FOR ISLAY FERRIES

4 Dàmhair 2022

The construction of two new ferries for Islay is officially underway after the first piece of steel was cut yesterday (3 October 2022).

The steel-cutting ceremony took place at Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard in Turkey, where the two vessels are being built for Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL).

The new 94.8-metre, vehicle passenger ferries will each have capacity for up to 450 passengers and 100 cars or 14 commercial vehicles, providing a combined 40% increase in vehicle and freight capacity on the Islay routes and improving the overall resilience of the wider fleet.  Carbon reduction has been a key factor in vessel design and the new ferries are expected to deliver a significant reduction in emissions.

Kevin Hobbs, chief executive of CMAL said:

“This initial stage of the build will see the construction of the first blocks being carried out under cover, before being relocated to the slipway to be assembled in a process called keel laying.

“Work at the shipyard is progressing well; the team at Cemre is delivering each stage within the agreed timeline.  I’m sure this will be welcome news for island communities to see the build programme get underway for these much-needed vessels.”

The £91 million contract to build the two ferries was awarded by CMAL to Cemre Marin Endustri in Turkey in March 2022 after a competitive procurement process.  The first vessel is expected to be delivered by October 2024 and will enter service following sea trials and crew familiarisation.  The second vessel will follow in early 2025.

The Islay vessels form part of a 10-year programme of investment by CMAL, backed by £580 million from the Scottish Government for five years from 2021 to 2026.  Plans will deliver 21 new vessels for the fleet and multi-million-pound upgrade of harbour infrastructure over the next decade.  Further multi-million-pound investment will be needed to fund plans from 2026 onwards.

 

 

LOCAL COMMUNITY ENCOURAGED TO PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON ISLAY VESSEL PORT ENABLING WORKS

1 Sultain 2022

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) is encouraging the local community to share their views on proposals for upgrading berth infrastructure as part of the preparations for the new Islay vessels.

Proposals for upgrades at Port Ellen, Port Askaig, Kennacraig and Colonsay have been shared following a series of community engagement meetings held in August on Jura, Islay, Tarbert and Colonsay.

CMAL owns the ferries which operate the Kennacraig – Islay and Colonsay routes, and have ordered two new vessels which will be brought into service from late 2024. These vessels will bring an increase in vehicle and freight capacity to the Islay routes, a reduction in emissions and will improve the resilience of the wider fleet.

The new vessels will be longer with deeper draught and higher displacement than the current vessels in the route, and so enabling works are required to prepare for the arrival of the vessels.

CMAL is seeking community feedback through a survey, which can be found along with the proposals and further information on the port enabling works on CMALs website: https://www.cmassets.co.uk/project/islay/

The survey will be open until 5pm, Friday 30th September.

 

IVEW: Community events to share upgrade proposals

IVEW: Community events to share upgrade proposals

28 Iuchar 2022

We are hosting a series of community events to share proposals for port enabling works at Colonsay, Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Port Ellen ferry terminals.

At the events, our engineers will be joined by representatives from Mott MacDonald, CalMac and Transport Scotland, and we will share details of the proposed plans for each ferry terminal, along with high-level timescales, potential disruption caused by the works, and high-level plans for continuing ferry services during construction.

The events will take place:

  • Jura Village Hall
    Wednesday 10 August, 12.00–3.45pm
  • Islay Gaelic Centre / Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle
    Monday 15 August, 4.00–7.00pm
  • Tarbert Village Hall
    Tuesday 16 August, 4.00–7.00pm
  • Colonsay Village Hall
    Wednesday 17 August, 4.00–7.00pm

For anyone who is unable to attend, proposals and presentations will be published on this page to coincide with the events.

PREFERRED BIDDER NAMED TO BUILD TWO NEW VESSELS FOR ISLAY

11 Màrt 2022

The preferred bidder has been named for a contract to build two new ferries to help support the community and economy on Islay.

Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd intends to award the contract to the Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard in Turkey, following a 10 day standstill period.

The new vessels will bring an almost 40% increase vehicle and freight capacity on the Islay routes, a reduction in emissions and improve the resilience of the wider fleet.

The first vessel is expected to be delivered by October 2024 and will enter service following sea trials and crew familiarisation. The second vessel will follow in early 2025.

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL said:

“Identifying a preferred bidder is a big step forward in the project to provide new vessels for Islay and Jura. All four shipyards submitted compelling bids, but with robust assessment of technical and financial criteria, Cemre Marin Endustri was the winner.

“We will now enter a 10 day standstill period before finalising the contract, at which point we will work closely with the yard to move on to the next stage of the procurement.”

Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said:

“I’m very pleased to see CMAL name the preferred bidder for this vital project, which will see two new ferries built to serve the Islay routes.

“These links are some of the busiest services for freight on the Clyde and Hebrides network and the new vessels will help to grow the island’s economy, as well as bring added resilience to the fleet.

“This underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to bringing in new ferries to support our island communities. We want to continue to see progress on bringing vessels into service on time and budget.

“We look forward to continuing to work with key stakeholders to develop programmes for major vessels and small vessels – investing at least £580 million as part of our Infrastructure Investment Plan.”

Robbie Drummond, Managing Director of CalMac, said:

“We very much look forward to welcoming these two new vessels into the CalMac fleet. This will help us deliver a service we can all be proud of”.

TENDER RESPONSES FOR ISLAY VESSELS RECEIVED

17 Dùbhlachd 2021

Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd has received four compliant bids for a tender to build two new vessels for Islay and Jura.

Four shipyards were invited to tender for the work in September; Damen Shipyards in Romania, Remontowa Shipbuilding in Poland, and Sefine Denizcilik Tersanecilik Turizm, and Cemre Marin Endustri in Turkey.

Each submission will now be rigorously assessed against quality, technical and commercial criteria, and the contract will be awarded to the winning shipyard at the end of March 2022.

The Islay route is one of the busiest services for freight on the Clyde and Hebrides network, and the two new ferries will support the island’s vital economic activity. Sufficient passenger accommodation will be designed to meet an anticipated increase in passenger demand. They will have greater vehicle capacity than the current vessels on the route, and will have significantly lower energy requirement. They will be designed with a clear focus on freight, including the capability to operate a possible overnight freight service forecasted 2028/29.

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL, said: “The four compliant bids bring us a step closer to providing new vessels to Islay and Jura.

“We will now spend time thoroughly evaluating the tenders against strict criteria, before awarding the contract to the highest scoring yard.”

IVEW: Design contract awarded

IVEW: Design contract awarded

1 Dùbhlachd 2021

We have awarded a contract to engineering firm Mott MacDonald to support the detailed design of pier infrastructure upgrade works.

The £1.5 million contract, which has been awarded following a public sector procurement process, covers design consultancy services for vessel enabling works at Port Ellen and Port Askaig in Islay, as well as Kennacraig and Colonsay.

Working closely with our harbours engineers and project managers, Mott MacDonald will secure and manage the required planning consents and licences, support stakeholder and community engagement, conduct and commission site surveys and investigations, create a detailed design of works required at all four sites, and help prepare tender documents to appoint construction contractors.

The design and planning stage is expected to last approximately one year, with construction scheduled to begin in 2023.

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR PIERS UPGRADE FOR NEW ISLAY VESSELS

1 Dùbhlachd 2021

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has awarded a contract to engineering firm Mott MacDonald to support the detailed design of pier infrastructure upgrade works.

The £1.5 million contract, which has been awarded following a public sector procurement process, covers design consultancy services for vessel enabling works at Port Ellen and Port Askaig in Islay, Kennacraig and Colonsay.

Mott MacDonald, working closely with CMAL’s in-house harbours engineers and project managers, will secure and manage the required planning consents and licences, support stakeholder and community engagement, conduct and commission site surveys and investigations, create detailed design of works required at all four sites, and help prepare tender documents to appoint construction contractors.

The design and planning stage is expected to last around a year, with construction estimated to begin in 2023.

Nasir Uddin, senior civil engineer at CMAL, said:

“A shipyard will be appointed next year to build the two new vessels for Islay and Jura and, in preparation for their arrival, we have identified that the ports where they will operate will benefit from investment to upgrade infrastructure and facilities.  The exact details of what’s required at each port will be clear once we have conducted various surveys, working with the team at Mott MacDonald.

“Our work will include comprehensive stakeholder and community engagement to ensure ferry passenger and other harbour users’ needs are reflected in our proposals.”

The vessel enabling works project is one of three CMAL projects planned for Port Ellen.  The other two projects will deliver improvements to traffic management arrangements, scheduled to get underway in 2022, and increase space with a bigger vehicle marshalling area, new terminal building and improvements to passenger access to and from vessels.  All three projects are the result of significant planning and feasibility studies by CMAL, working in partnership with Transport Scotland and CalMac, as well as local stakeholders.

CMAL has a significant plan of vessel and harbour investment underway, backed by a £580 million commitment from the Scottish Government for an initial five-year period from 2021 to 2026.  Plans will deliver 21 new vessels for the fleet and multi-million-pound upgrade of harbour infrastructure over the next 10 years.  Further multi-million-pound investment will be needed to fund plans from 2026 onwards.

FOUR SHIPYARDS INVITED TO TENDER FOR NEW ISLAY VESSELS

14 Sultain 2021

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has invited four shipyards to bid for the contract to build two new ferries for Islay.

Following extensive consultation with Transport Scotland, CalMac, and communities on Islay, a decision has been made to build two vessels, which will provide much needed new tonnage in the fleet and improve the resilience of the network.

The new vessels will have greater vehicle capacity than the current vessels on the route, and will have significantly lower energy requirement. They will be designed with a clear focus on freight, including the capability to operate a possible overnight freight service.

The Islay route is already one of the busiest services for freight on the Clyde and Hebrides network, and the incoming ferries will support the island’s vital economic activity. Sufficient passenger accommodation will be designed to meet an anticipated increase in passenger demand.

Reaching the Invitation to Tender (ITT) stage of the procurement process are; Damen Shipyard in Romania, Remontowa Shipbuilding in Poland, and Turkish shipyards Sefine Denizcilik Tersanecilik Turizm, and Cemre Marin Endustri.

Evaluation of the first stage of the procurement exercise, which included an option for a second vessel, is complete.  A total of 35 organisations expressed interest at the first stage of the procurement exercise and responses were received from 11 organisations.

Each submission was assessed rigorously against technical and financial criteria. The shortlisted shipyards will now submit their technical and commercial proposals for the design and construction of the two vessels. Each submission will be rigorously assessed against quality, technical and commercial criteria, and the contract will be awarded to the winning shipyard no later than the end of March 2022.

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL said:

“We received interest from many shipyards across the world, and carried out robust assessment of their technical and financial suitability to take on this project.

“Four shipyards scored the highest across both criteria and have now been issued an ITT for the contract. This stage of the procurement process will take around six months, and we hope to award the contract to the winning shipyard at the end of March 2022.

“The ITT stage marks an important step forward in bringing a new vessel to Islay and Jura.  It is one of several new vessel and harbour upgrade projects we are currently progressing to improve the resilience of ferry services for island communities.”

CONTRACT NOTICE ISSUED FOR ISLAY VESSEL PROJECT

22 Ògmhios 2021

CMAL has published a contract notice for stage one of the procurement process for the new Islay vessel on the Public Contract Scotland (PCS) website using PCS-Tender.

The notice has also been issued to the Find a Tender Service (FTS) and the production service of the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) for publication.

Responses to stage one of the procurement process will be assessed, and the highest ranked bidders will qualify for an invitation to stage two of the process. Stage one is expected to take three months, and will be followed by stage two – the Invitation to Tender (ITT).

CMAL expects to award the contract to the successful shipyard in late March 2022.

PROCUREMENT OF NEW ISLAY FERRY GETS UNDERWAY

9 Ògmhios 2021

The procurement of a new ferry to help support the community and economy on Islay is officially underway.

The first stage of the tender process will assess if interested shipyards meet the technical and financial criteria to take on the project.

The Invitation To Tender is expected to be issued later this summer with a view to awarding the contract, with an estimated value of around £50m, in March 2022.

The start of the procurement  follows engagement with key stakeholders and members of the local community on the design of the new ferry.

Minister for Transport Graeme Dey said:

“I’m pleased to announce the process to build a new ferry for Islay is formally underway.

“The route is one of the busiest services for freight on the Clyde and Hebrides network and this new vessel will help to grow the island’s economy, as well as bring added resilience to the fleet.

“This underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to bringing in new ferries to support our island communities. We look forward to continuing to work with key stakeholders to develop programmes for major vessels and small vessels – investing at least £580 million over the next five years.”

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL), said:

“Reaching the procurement stage is the culmination of robust project planning over the past eighteen months, including vessel requirements, detailed concept design options and feasibility studies and analysis, as well as regular engagement with community representatives and islanders.

“This marks an important step forward in bringing a new vessel to Islay and Jura.  It is one of several new vessel and harbour upgrade projects we are currently progressing to improve the resilience of ferry services for island communities.”

CalMac’s Managing Director Robbie Drummond said:

“We welcome the addition of a new Islay vessel. This will provide much needed additional capacity on the route to support the economic growth of the island.

“We will continue to work closely with Transport Scotland and CMAL to ensure we have the vessels to deliver the service needs of the community.”

SECOND VIRTUAL COMMUNITY MEETING FOR NEW ISLAY FERRY

16 Màrt 2021

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), in partnership with CalMac Ferries Limited and Transport Scotland, will hold an online community consultation meeting this month to update island communities on the planning process for the new vessel to serve Islay and Jura.

The virtual event will take place on Tuesday 23rd March 2021, 6.30pm to 8.30pm and will be hosted on Microsoft Teams, which is free to download online. The event is open to everyone with an interest in the new vessel. To participate, attendees must register in advance:

https://www.cmassets.co.uk/NewIslayFerryMeeting

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL said:

“Whilst face-to-face meetings are still not possible, engaging local stakeholders in the planning of our projects remains highly important to us. The response to our last meeting was positive, and we are pleased to be re-engaging with island communities to update them on the progress of our work.

“Meetings offer us the opportunity to have open discussion with communities, enabling us to answer their questions directly, and we encourage anyone eager to attend to register now via the sign-up links. However, the flexibility that hosting these meetings virtually affords us is also beneficial in engaging with those who cannot attend.”

The new Islay ferry is the next major vessel to be built for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service.  It will complement the service provided by MV Finlaggan.

The presentation and associated materials from the meeting will be available on the CMAL website after the meeting and an updated Q&A document will be published.

Questions or any other queries regarding the project in advance of the meeting are encouraged, and can be emailed to islayvessel@cmassets.co.uk Alternatively, you can write to Jim Anderson at Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited, Municipal Buildings, Fore Street, Port Glasgow, PA14 5EQ

NEW ISLAY VESSEL Q&A PUBLISHED

5 Gearran 2021

A new Q&A document for the Islay vessel project has been published by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL).

The questions were submitted to CMAL during and after a virtual community meeting on 14 January, which was organised to engage islanders and other stakeholders in the design and planning process for the new ferry to service Islay and Jura.

A large volume of questions was received, some with sub questions and complex in nature.  CMAL has given the questions full consideration to ensure responses are robust, with input required from several parties for some responses.

When built, the new ferry will complement MV Finlaggan, although it will be designed with a clear focus on freight, and sufficient passenger accommodation will be designed to meet anticipated demand.

More information is available on the new Islay vessel project page.

COMMUNITY ENCOURAGED TO JOIN ISLAY VESSEL VIRTUAL MEETING

8 Faoilleach 2021

Island communities in Islay and Jura are being reminded to sign-up for an online community consultation meeting to discuss the design and planning process for the new vessel to serve the islands.

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), in partnership with CalMac and Transport Scotland, will hold the virtual community meeting on Thursday 14 January 2021, 6.30pm to 8.30pm.  The event is open to everyone with an interest in the new vessel.

To participate, those interested must register in advance via Eventbrite at www.islayvessel.eventbrite.co.uk  The virtual event will be hosted on Microsoft Teams, which is free to download online.

The meeting will provide communities with an update on the new vessel feasibility studies, which have been ongoing throughout 2020.  Key considerations in the extensive range of studies have included: passenger and vehicle requirements; maximising vehicle capacities – particularly for freight; forecast demand; operational requirements; requirements and arrangements for passengers and crew; accessibility; vessel operating speed and timetable; port fits, limitations and improvements; emission and fuel consumption analysis; air quality; reliability, manoeuvrability and seakeeping; shore power and overnight noise; benefits and disbenefits, and costs (capital and operational).  Options for vessel capacities will be presented based on the outcomes of the feasibility studies.

Jim Anderson, director of vessels at CMAL said:

“Community engagement is an important part of the vessel concept design and planning process and the virtual meeting is an opportunity for islanders and others with an interest to hear more about our planning work to date, to contribute to discussion and to ask questions.  We urge everyone who can make it to register now.”

Presentations and an updated project Q&A will be available on the CMAL website after the meeting.

Questions, or any other queries, regarding the project can be emailed to islayvessel@cmassets.co.uk  Alternatively, write to Jim Anderson at CMAL, Municipal Buildings, Fore Street, Port Glasgow, PA14 5EQ.

The new Islay ferry is the next major vessel to be ordered for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service.  It will complement the service provided by MV Finlaggan.

VIRTUAL COMMUNITY MEETING FOR NEW ISLAY FERRY

16 Dùbhlachd 2020

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), in partnership with CalMac Ferries Limited and Transport Scotland, will hold an online community consultation meeting in January 2021 to engage island communities and community stakeholders in the design and planning process for the new vessel to service Islay and Jura.  It will be the first community meeting that CMAL has held virtually.

The virtual event will take place on Thursday 14 January 2021, 6.30pm to 8.30pm and will be hosted on Microsoft Teams, which is free to download online.  To participate, please register via Eventbrite at www.islayvessel.eventbrite.co.uk  The event is open to everyone with an interest in the new vessel.

The meeting will provide communities with an update on the new vessel feasibility studies, which have been ongoing throughout 2020.  Key considerations in the extensive range of studies have included: passenger and vehicle requirements; maximising vehicle capacities – particularly for freight; forecast demand; operational requirements; requirements and arrangements for passengers and crew; accessibility; vessel operating speed and timetable; port fits, limitations and improvements; emission and fuel consumption analysis; air quality; reliability, manoeuvrability and seakeeping; shore power and overnight noise; benefits and disbenefits, and costs (capital and operational).

Options for vessel capacities will be presented based on the outcomes of the feasibility studies.  Attendees will have the opportunity to share their views and comments and ask questions during the meeting.

CMAL had to postpone meetings in Bowmore, Port Ellen and Jura in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has been unable to reschedule meetings on the islands due to the ongoing restrictions.

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL said:

“The community meetings are overdue.  We have been liaising with the Islay Community Council Ferry Committee throughout this year and are now in a position for further engagement with the wider island community.  We had hoped to rearrange events for late summer 2020 when there was some relaxation in the restrictions, but we had to balance it carefully with the health and safety of the island communities and our people.

“The events of 2020 mean people are more comfortable than ever with virtual meetings and technology, so we have decided this is our best option until we can return to Islay and Jura safely.  There will be opportunity for discussion and questions, and we urge everyone who can make it to register now to attend.  One of the benefits of having the meeting online is that we can record and make it available later for those who can’t make the date and time.”

All presentations will be available on the CMAL website after the meeting and an updated Q&A document will be published.

Questions, or any other queries, regarding the project can be emailed to islayvessel@cmassets.co.uk  Alternatively, write to Jim Anderson at Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited, Municipal Buildings, Fore Street, Port Glasgow, PA14 5EQ.

The new Islay ferry is the next major vessel to be ordered for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service.  It will complement the service provided by MV Finlaggan.

CMAL PROVIDES ISLAY VESSEL PROJECT UPDATE

8 Iuchar 2020

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has shared information on the new Islay vessel project with the Islay community to maintain engagement during the Covid-19 restrictions.

Two community meetings due to take place in Bowmore and Port Ellen at the end of March had to be postponed due to the coronavirus lockdown.  CMAL has so far been unable to rearrange the community engagement meetings, but is hoping to reschedule them for later in the summer, subject to coronavirus restrictions and safety guidelines.

In the meantime, a project update in the form of a Q&A document has been shared with local community stakeholders, such as Islay Community Council and ferry committee, and published on the CMAL website 

The new Islay ferry is the next major vessel to be ordered for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service.  It will complement the service provided by MV Finlaggan.  Planning for the new vessel began last summer through a project working group of CMAL, Transport Scotland and CalMac. The project is currently at the feasibility analysis stage, which is being led by CMAL with support from naval architecture consultants and other specialists.

Further questions not covered in the Q&A can be emailed to islayvessel@cmassets.co.uk

Jim Anderson, director of vessels at CMAL, said:

“We are very keen to reinstate the community meetings and we will arrange new dates as soon as it is safe to do so within the health and safety and travel guidelines.  We are working closely with community groups on the island to make this possible.

“Hopefully, in the meantime, the information we’ve shared will help to answer some of the questions islanders and ferry users may have and we have set-up a project email address where additional questions can be submitted.  We’ll respond directly to enquires, and also update the Q&A online.”

POSTPONED: COMMUNITY MEETINGS FOR NEW ISLAY FERRY

17 Màrt 2020

Community meetings on the specification of a new ferry to operate between Kennacraig and Islay have been postponed due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Following revised guidance from the Scottish and UK Governments this week, Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has decided to postpone the meetings, which were due to take place on 23 March at Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle (ICCI) in Bowmore, 24 March at Ramsay Hall in Port Ellen, and 25 March at Jura Village Hall.

The meetings will be rescheduled to later in the year and CMAL will provide an update as soon as new dates are confirmed.

The public meetings were being held by CMAL, in partnership with Transport Scotland and CalMac, to engage communities on ferry user needs during the early planning and feasibility stages.

The new Islay ferry is the next major vessel to be ordered for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service.  It will complement the service provided by MV Finlaggan.

COMMUNITY MEETINGS FOR NEW ISLAY FERRY

28 Gearran 2020

Two meetings will be held in Islay to engage with communities on the requirements and specification of a new ferry to operate between Kennacraig and Islay.

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) will host the meetings on 23 March at Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle (ICCI) in Bowmore and on 24 March at Ramsay Hall in Port Ellen.  The two-hour meetings will start at 5.30pm and include a 30-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session with representatives from CMAL, CalMac and Transport Scotland.

The new Islay ferry is the next major vessel to be ordered for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service.  It will complement the service provided by MV Finlaggan, although it will be developed with a clear focus on freight.

The Islay route is one of the busiest services for freight on the Clyde and Hebrides network.  Sufficient passenger accommodation will also be designed to meet anticipated demand.

The project is in its early stages.  A naval architect consultancy, naValue GmbH, has been appointed by CMAL to support the feasibility analysis phase of the project and the tender programme to award a shipbuilding contract.

Jim Anderson, director of vessels at CMAL, said:

“We are working closely with all parties to develop the specification for a vessel that meets requirements and supports the island’s economic activities.  Engagement with the island community is a key part of the process to ensure user needs are considered during the early planning and feasibility stages.  We would like to see as many people as possible at the meetings.”

NEW ISLAY FERRY PROJECT UNDERWAY

17 Sultain 2019

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has appointed naval architecture consultancy, naValue GmbH, to support the project for the new ferry to operate on the busy Islay route.

Scottish Ministers have agreed that the next major CalMac vessel to be commissioned will be for Islay. The Islay ferry project is now in its early stages and is being led by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), CalMac and Transport Scotland. The project will be shaped by consultation with the island community and a robust business case.

The new ferry will be designed to complement the service provided by MV Finlaggan, which currently operates on the Islay route, although it will be developed with a clear focus on freight, including the capability to operate a possible overnight freight service. The Islay route is one of the busiest services for freight on the Clyde and Hebrides network, and the incoming ferry will support the island’s growing demand. Sufficient passenger accommodation will also be designed to meet anticipated passenger demand.

Flensburg-based naValue specialises in custom ferry design and consultancy and has significant experience in the marine industry. The firm’s lead naval architect led on the design of MV Loch Seaforth, which operates on the Stornoway-Ullapool route.

Representatives from CMAL met with key stakeholders in Islay last month to brief them on the status of the project. The meeting was also attended by Transport Scotland and CalMac. Meetings to update the wider community will be arranged soon.

Jim Anderson, director of vessels, CMAL, said:

“We are working closely with all parties to develop a vessel which will satisfy the island’s vital economic activities.

“We are currently at the early stage of concept design discussions with naValue and aim to design a modern vessel which meets legislation and ensures project plans, proposals and specifications are feasible and realistic. We expect the vessel tender programme to be undertaken early next year, with the award of a shipbuilding contract scheduled for autumn 2020.

“We plan to hold further meetings with the extended Islay community in the near future and we will update relevant stakeholders on the progress of the project along the way.”

Our full privacy notice is available here.

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