LMG Marin supports Remontowa Shipbuilding in winning CMAL’s tender for seven all-electric ferries

LMG Marin to deliver ship design services for seven new CMAL ferries 1

We are proud to announce our role in supporting Remontowa Shipbuilding in securing the contract to build seven all-electric small ferries for Scottish ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CMAL). This significant newbuilding project marks a major step in modernizing Scotland’s ferry network with sustainable and efficient vessels.

CMAL has awarded the contract to Remontowa Shipbuilding S.A. in Gdańsk, Poland as part of an international competitive tender in which six shipyards have been invited to offer. The first of the seven ferries is scheduled for delivery in 2027. These vessels are provisionally planned to operate on the following routes:

  • Route 1: Colintraive – Rhubadoch
  • Route 2: Sconser – Raasay
  • Route 3: Tarbert – Portavadie
  • Route 4: Iona – Fionnphort
  • Route 5: Tobermory – Kilchoan
  • Route 6: Lochaline – Fishnish
  • Route 7: Tayinloan – Gigha

“Confirming the lead bidder is a significant milestone for CalMac, and we’re excited to welcome new, modern small vessels to the fleet from 2027 onwards,” said Duncan Mackison, CalMac’s Chief Executive Officer. “Small vessels are an integral part of our operation, and new tonnage will allow us to improve the resilience of our service, and the experience customers have on these routes. These seven new vessels, when combined with the six major new vessels joining the fleet in 2025 and 2026, will mean a third of our entire fleet has been renewed.”

The new standardized vessels will enhance resilience, accessibility, and route interchangeability. Their fully electric operation will significantly reduce CO2 emissions, providing cleaner local air quality across the network. Infrastructure upgrades across Scotland’s west coast are planned ahead of the vessels’ entry into service.

LMG Marin, renowned for our expertise in sustainable maritime solutions, has been entrusted with the basic design for these vessels. With headquarters in Norway and a strong global presence, LMG Marin has designed over 100 ferries in its 80-year history, including nearly 50 in the last 15 years. We have extensive experience in zero-emission vessel designs, having developed more than 20 battery- and hydrogen-powered ferries. The LMG Marin ferries successfully serve in Norway, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Canada, Scotland, England, Italy and Croatia.

Remontowa Shipbuilding, one of Europe’s leading shipyards, specializes in constructing ferries, offshore vessels, and specialized ships. As part of the Remontowa Holding group, the shipyard is known for its innovation, high-quality shipbuilding, and environmentally friendly solutions. It serves clients worldwide, including ferry operators, offshore industries, and government agencies.