Scotland's CMAL appoints design consultancy for new ferry project

Caledonian Maritime Assets (CMAL) has appointed ferry design consultancy naValue to support the concept design phase of the new mull vessels project.

Under the programme, new vessels will be procured for the Oban to Craignure route as part of the Clyde and Hebrides ferry services network.

The appointment marks the commencement of the concept phase, during which multiple vessel concepts and design options will be developed and assessed.

Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at Caledonian Maritime Assets, explained that the ferries will play a vital role in supporting communities, businesses, and visitors along the crossing.

He added that the design process must directly reflect the requirements of those who rely on the service.

CMAL emphasised that community and stakeholder engagement will continue throughout the design and construction phases to ensure operational experience and user feedback are incorporated where practical and affordable.

The project forms part of the Scottish Government's wider small and medium vessel replacement programmes, which aim to modernise the ageing CalMac fleet and standardise vessel classes across the network.