For two new Scottish ferries, where operational efficiency is everything, Cargotec will deliver a complete MacGregor RoRo cargo access outfit to ensure fast port turnaround times.
In January, Cargotec received a contract from Ferguson Shipbuilders in Scotland to deliver MacGregor RoRo cargo access equipment for two new hybrid-propulsion ferries on order for Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL). The ferries will accommodate 150 passengers, 23 cars or two large trucks and will be run by the operator of the Clyde & Hebrides Ferry services, currently CalMac Ferries Ltd.
For each new vessel, Cargotec will supply a bow ramp/door, a stern ramp/door and a power pack. “CalMac has a long history of operating MacGregor RoRo equipment and we are proud to be involved in this innovative project where advanced solutions are used. We look forward to supply MacGregor equipment to the world’s first hybrid RoRo ferries”, says Lars Öberg, Sales Manager for RoRo ships at Cargotec.
The new vessels will feature a ramp design that is based on the previous successful delivery of MacGregor ramps that were supplied to the 54m double-ender Loch Shira ferry, also built at the Ferguson yard. “Loch Shira started service in 2007 and since then its MacGregor ramps have logged more than 40,000 operation cycles; the operator, CalMac Ferries, is very satisfied with their good reliability.”
The new vessels will have a service speed of 9 knots and are designed for use on many short crossing routes around the Clyde and Hebrides in Scotland, making them ideal candidates for diesel-electric propulsion systems. This ensures reduced fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and other pollutants, and noise reduction. “When you combine this with a RoRo access equipment outfit that delivers highly-efficient port-turnarounds, the new ferries will provide truly sustainable life-line services in the area,” Mr Öberg notes.
The first vessel is scheduled to enter service in late spring/early summer 2013, with the second one following three and a half months later.
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Source: Cargotec, March 9, 2012; Image: CMAL