Ferguson Marine marks a critical milestone as Glen Rosa enters final dry dock

Glen Rosa in dry dock. [Photo: Jane Barlow/PA Wire]

Scottish shipbuilder Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow) Ltd reports it has taken a major step towards the delivery of the dual fuel ferry MV Glen Rosa, the second of two ferries ordered in 2015 and expected to deliver in 2018 but subsequently plagued by a catalog of delays and setbacks.

The 335 meter car/passenger vessel, which will join the CalMac fleet as part of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service, has been relocated to the nearby Dales Marine Services facility in Greenock. This critical planned phase of the build enables the team to access the vessel’s hull for essential underwater inspections, outfitting, and structural works.

During Glen Rosa‘s time in dry dock, teams from both Ferguson Marine and
Dales Marine will execute a comprehensive package of work. This includes inspections of the hull and rudder systems, performing remedial work to the stern tubes, and a program of hull painting.

Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine, said: “Seeing a vessel of this size and complexity transition into dry dock is yet another rewarding milestone for our team. It signifies that we are moving out of the construction phase and focusing heavily on the final stages of commissioning and outfitting. We are proud of the momentum the team is maintaining and remain absolutely committed to delivering MV Glen Rosa to the highest standards in Q4 2026.”

The dry docking of MV Glen Rosa also represents a strong collaboration between local maritime enterprises on the River Clyde, keeping vital marine engineering skills and economic benefits within the region.

Kevin Paterson, CEO at Dales Marine Services, added: “We are pleased to support Ferguson Marine with this important stage in the delivery of MV Glen Rosa. The move into dry dock enables critical access to complete key elements of the vessel ahead of final commissioning.

“Our experienced team at Greenock is focused on delivering a defined package of specialist works safely, efficiently and to the required standards, alongside Ferguson Marine. We recognise the importance of this vessel to the Clyde and Hebrides network and are committed to supporting its progression towards entry into service.”

Kevin Hobbs, CEO at Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), said: “This is another important milestone, and we welcome this further step towards vessel completion and delivery.”

MV Glen Rosa is scheduled to remain at the Dales Marine facility until mid-July. Following the successful completion of the dry dock works, she will return to Ferguson Marine’s shipyard in Port Glasgow to finalize commissioning before embarking on sea trials later this year. The vessel’s final completion and handover are expected in Q4 2026.