The £5.6M (US$2.0M) Fair Isle ferry contract is part of the UK government’s Levelling Up Fund aimed at improving infrastructure across the country
Vessel designer Chartwell Marine has announced an order for a new Fair Isle ferry to supply to Shetland Islands Council. The vessel will be built at Parkol Marine Engineering and is due to launch towards the end of 2026.
A replacement for 1986-built Good Shepherd, this new ferry will provide a vital transport link between Fair Isle and the Shetland mainland. The vessel is designed for various operational roles and features an optimised hull and propulsion system that will enable it to safely, comfortably and efficiently transport up to 12 passengers and cargo in challenging waters around the Shetland Isles. The vessel is also roll-on roll-off capable, meaning vehicles can drive on and off the ferry at ports where suitable linkspans and facilities exist.
Shetland Islands Council’s Environment and Transport Committee chair, Councillor Moraig Lyall said, “After a competitive tendering process, we were pleased to award the contract for this vessel to Parkol Marine Engineering to design and build the new Fair Isle ferry. We are trusting the maritime expertise of Parkol and Chartwell Marine to create a robust and versatile ferry to serve the needs of the Fair Isle community.”
Chartwell Marine technical director Chris O’Neill said, “Utilising the latest technologies and CFD design techniques, we have developed a highly capable, multi-purpose ferry that will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient transport of people and goods between Fair Isle and the Shetland Mainland. The project marks a key milestone in our expansion into the ferry market, and we will continue to utilise our design expertise to drive further innovation across the sector.”
Parkol Marine Engineering commercial director Sally Atkinson added, “Fair Isle needs a reliable vessel that can perform in tough conditions, without compromise. Working closely with Chartwell Marine, we’re building a ferry that’s robust, efficient and built to last, with advanced capabilities that will enable it to transport residents and goods safely and comfortably between Fair Isle and the Shetland mainland for years to come.”
The ferry has been designed to the Shetland Islands Council’s exact requirements and has a bulbous bow, enhanced hull and changeable pitch propeller system that will enable it to operate effectively in the rough waters around Fair Isle. It also has a large storage hold, a crane to lift cars and large containers onto shore and accommodation for four crew members. The vessel is IMO Tier-3 emissions compliant, and the engine will be able to use diesel alternatives, which will help the vessel to reduce its environmental impact.
