Schottel powers new CMAL ferries

The vessels, to be built at Remontowa Shipbuilding in Poland, are scheduled to begin delivery in 2027. Intended for nine routes across Scotland’s West Coast, the ferries are part of a push to modernise lifeline transport links and shift the network toward lower-emission operations.

“For the new Loch-class ferries, our focus was on achieving excellent manoeuvrability, redundancy and high efficiency,” said Jim Anderson, director of vessels at CMAL.

“Moreover, as part of Scotland’s critical transport infrastructure, these vessels must deliver maximum reliability. With Schottel’s modern propulsion systems, we are confident that all these requirements are fully met.”

Each ferry will be fitted with four Schottel SRP 100 L RudderPropellers. The L-Drive setup removes the upper gearbox, a change the company says reduces mechanical losses and cuts maintenance demands. For higher-speed transits, the system incorporates the SDC nozzle with ProAnode technology, designed to improve hydrodynamic performance.

Given the challenging conditions on Scotland’s west coast, the propulsion units will include a fast-reacting azimuth steering system aimed at improving handling and maintaining service even in poor weather. A digital monitoring platform, Schottel MariHub, will support condition-based maintenance and help operators fine-tune service intervals.

The ferries themselves vary in capacity: six will carry 150 passengers and 24 cars, while a larger unit will transport up to 250 passengers and 16 cars. All are designed for zero-emission operation with overnight battery charging.

The project forms a major component of CMAL’s ongoing Small Vessel Replacement Programme, which includes port upgrades to accommodate the incoming vessels and bolster long-term connectivity for coastal and island communities.