After years of delays and political controversy, the MV Glen Sannox has finally been handed over to Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) by the Ferguson shipyard. Launched exactly seven years ago, this vessel marks a significant milestone as it is the first large addition to Scotland’s west coast ferry fleet in nearly a decade. With its maiden voyage scheduled for January, the ferry is set to serve the Arran route, providing much-needed support to an aging fleet.
The journey of Glen Sannox has been fraught with difficulties since its inception. Initially slated for delivery in May 2018, the project encountered substantial design and construction challenges that have turned it into one of the most contentious public procurement issues since the devolution of powers to Holyrood.
- The initial contract price of £97 million has ballooned to over £400 million, including £45 million in government loans that remain unrecovered.
The handover coincides with significant events at the Port Glasgow shipyard, which has experienced administration and nationalization amid ongoing setbacks. Alex Logan, convener for the GMB union, acknowledged the hardships faced by both workers and island communities during this protracted process. He expressed relief that the vessel is finally ready for service.
The Glen Sannox is not just another ferry; it is also noteworthy as the first UK-built ferry capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG). Spanning 102.4 meters (336 feet), it will undergo several weeks of crew familiarization and harbor trials before it begins its operational journey.
CalMac, which operates under Scottish government ownership, plans to conduct annual maintenance checks and inspections in early December. The ferry will officially start carrying passengers from Troon to Brodick around mid-January.
Meanwhile, construction on its sister ship, Glen Rosa, appears to be progressing more smoothly, with an expected delivery date set for September next year. Despite these developments, the saga surrounding Glen Sannox serves as a cautionary tale about public procurement processes in Scotland.
As Scotland looks ahead, there is hope that these new vessels will restore confidence in its ferry services and ensure reliable transportation for island communities that depend heavily on them.
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