A key stage in the construction of the UK's first LNG-fuelled ferry was marked July 14 when an 88-metric-ton LNG tank was delivered to the Ferguson shipyard on the River Clyde near Glasgow where the ferry is being built.

 

The 147m³ tank is the first to be delivered for two dual-fuel ferries being built for Scottish government-owned Caledonian Maritime Assets (CMAL) by Ferguson. The 102-metre vessels will be capable of operating on LNG and marine gas oil (MGO), helping to reduce emissions.

 

The double-skinned stainless steel tank, supplied by Wartsila, left Shanghai in China mid-May, travelling by sea through the Suez Canal to Antwerp in Belgium before reaching Scotland’s shores last week; the pressurised tank is the largest component required for the construction of the vessels.

CMAL, owner of ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne and ports and harbours in western Scotland, designed the vessels to provide a year-round service for services from the mainland to both Arran and Skye. The first ferry, now named MV Glen Sannox, is due to enter service in 2H 2018.

Andy Crossan, CMAL projects director, said: "The design and build of these dual fuel vessels is a highly complex technical project, the first of its kind in Scotland – and indeed the UK. It is a sign of our commitment to exploring new technologies for ferries, as well as a wider commitment to innovation in Scotland and consideration for the environmental impact of transport.”