Public vote selects names for seven new CalMac ferries

A public vote has determined the official names for seven new electric ferries scheduled to operate across Scotlands west coast routes. These vessels are currently under construction in Poland as part of the Small Vessel Replacement Programme and will join the CalMac fleet once completed.

The new ferries will be named Loch Awe, Loch Etive, Loch Katrine, Loch Maree, Loch Morar, Loch Rannoch and Loch Shiel. According to Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL), the first of the vessels is expected to reach Scotland in 2027.

More than 1,000 votes were submitted over the three-week selection period, during which participants chose their preferred names from a shortlist of 17 options. Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop noted the importance of community involvement in the process.

Once in service, the ferries will operate on several routes across Argyll and Bute and the Hebrides, including ColintraiveRhubodach, LochalineFishnish, TarbertPortavadie, IonaFionnphort, SconserRaasay, TobermoryKilchoan and TayinloanGigha.

Author: Caleb Jennings