First Dual-Fuel LNG Ferry Handed Over in Scotland After Delays and Controversies

Scottish shipbuilder Ferguson Marine recently completed the handover of the first dual-fuel LNG ferry built in the UK, the Glen Sannox, nearly ten years after the construction order. The vessel, which is 7,300 gross tons, faced significant delays and cost overruns, becoming a political embarrassment to the Scottish government. After receiving mandatory certification from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and Lloyd’s Register, the ferry is now ready to commence service on the Arran route.

The handover of the Glen Sannox to the government-owned corporation CMAL signifies a major step forward in Scotland’s program to procure six new ferries by 2026. The vessel will provide vital lifeline services to islanders, boosting resilience in the fleet. Despite initial plans for delivery in 2018 at a combined cost of £97 million, the project faced controversies, resulting in ballooning costs exceeding £400 million. The shipyard blamed design flaws, change requests, and supply issues for the project’s failures.

At a length of 102 meters, the Glen Sannox will offer expanded capacity on the run to Arran as the first new large ferry for operations on the west coast of Scotland in nearly a decade. Capable of operating on LNG and marine gas oil, the ferry can accommodate up to 852 passengers and a combination of vehicles. Following final maintenance, crew training, and inspections in December, the vessel is expected to begin commercial service in January, replacing the MV Isle of Arran on the route.

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