Bidding Opens for New Scottish Short-Sea Freight Ferries

23 Oct 2025, with submissions due by early December and a contract award planned for February 2026. Each vessel will be designed to withstand one of the most storm-prone and roughest crossings in the British Isles, providing a vital lifeline between the Northern Isles and the Scottish mainland. The newbuilds are intended to enhance freight capacity and reliability on the route. Transport Scotland will evaluate bids on technical design, environmental compliance and cost before awarding the contract in early 2026. Source: https://www.motorship.com/vessels-and-shipyards/robust-ro-ro-for-northern-lifeline/1505638.article