Innovative ro-pax build goes to FSG

The new Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) ferry will go into service in 2014 between Stornoway and Ullapool linking north-western Scotland’s mainland with the Isle of Lewis in the Hebrides. However, the ferry will replacing two others, and will so be working round the clock.

With a length of 116 metres, accommodating 700 passengers and boasting 372 lane metres for 143 cars or 26 trucks, it is cheaper than putting another pair of ferries on the route. FSG MD Peter Sierk explains that “for the customer, serving this route with just one rather than two ships was the most economic solution. Doing so means, however, that the new ferry has to be capable of meeting very high demands on a daily basis”.

Therefore although the ferry will be operating with a very reliable straight diesel shaft propulsion most of the time, it will have a diesel electric alternative. Raimon Strunck of FSG told TMS: “The extremely efficient diesel shaft drive means the owner should be able to save millions in terms of maintenance and fuel costs, but since the vessel is supposed to run 24/7, there is a high degree of redundancy. If there are any issues the vessel needs to be able to jump in with the diesel electric propulsion and still maintain service speed.” He adds: “Engineers should be able to repair most problems on board while the ferry keeps up its schedule.”