Two new freight flex vessels serving the Aberdeen to Kirkwall/Lerwick route will bring improved capacity and faster speeds according to the Scottish government, which has launched a procurement process, reports Chris Tindall.
Funding has been identified for a potential contract start on freighter replacements and ferry and port owner CMAL will progress a competitive tender process to replace the Helliar and Hildasay on routes operated by Serco NorthLink, with a view to awarding the contract in February 2026.
Fiona Hyslop, cabinet secretary for transport, said: “The Scottish government is fully committed to investing in all of our lifeline ferry services and so, I am pleased to see this progress in procuring two new freight flex vessels to serve the Northern Isles.
“These new vessels will have increased freight capacity, higher operating speeds, and additional capacity for passengers in peak season.
“This will enhance the efficiency and reliability of ferry services to best meet the needs of the businesses and communities in the Northern Isles for years to come.”
CMAL chief executive Kevin Hobbs said it marked an important step in strengthening the long term resilience of the Northern Isles services: “We look forward to receiving bids that demonstrate innovation, efficiency and the ability to deliver reliable vessels that will support a more adaptable and robust service for years to come,” he added.
Serco NorthLink MD Stuart Garrett said: “We are grateful for the efforts of everyone involved in reaching this first step in the competitive tender process.
“NorthLink Ferries welcomes the additional capacity that the freight flex vessels will provide, enabling us to continue to support the growth of the Northern Isles economies.”
