Saga of Delayed Ferguson Ferry Glen Sannox: From Construction Woes to Maiden Sea Trials
The journey of the Glen Sannox, a CalMac ferry constructed at the Ferguson shipyard on the Clyde, has been a saga of delays and challenges, culminating in its recent commencement of sea trials. Originally slated for completion in 2018, the vessel, alongside its sister ship Glen Rosa, faced numerous setbacks attributed to design flaws and construction issues, extending its construction timeline by six years.
Despite the turbulent journey, the recent milestone of the Glen Sannox sailing under its own power marks a significant step forward. Tethered to a tug for safety, the ferry embarked on its inaugural voyage downriver, signaling the beginning of rigorous sea trials. David Tydeman, CEO of Ferguson Marine, hailed this moment as a key achievement, acknowledging the dedication of the shipyard’s team and the collaboration with Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), the government-owned ferries procurement agency.
The trials, initially planned to reach only Greenock, surpassed expectations as the vessel ventured further, navigating past Gourock. With maneuvers including propulsion and anchoring tests, the Glen Sannox demonstrated its capabilities, setting the stage for further assessments in the coming weeks. These trials are crucial steps towards ensuring the ferry’s readiness for service on the vital Arran route, a responsibility that will later be assumed by CalMac following the shipyard’s completion of testing.
The saga of the Glen Sannox reflects broader challenges within the shipbuilding industry, with disputes over responsibility and cost escalations casting shadows over the project. Jim McColl, chairman of Clyde Blowers, the investment firm that rescued Ferguson Marine from administration, blamed CMAL for flawed procurement processes and demanding design changes. In contrast, CMAL attributed the delays to contractor failures, leading to a bitter dispute that ultimately saw the shipyard’s nationalization.
Amidst the turmoil, the fate of the Ferguson shipyard hangs in the balance, with calls for securing its future through new contracts. The GMB union, representing shipyard workers, advocates for government intervention to safeguard jobs and revive the yard’s reputation for timely and budgeted deliveries. Proposals for smaller CalMac vessels offer a glimmer of hope, drawing on past successes to rebuild trust and stability in the industry.
As the Glen Sannox embarks on its sea trials, it symbolizes resilience amidst adversity, a testament to the perseverance of those involved in its construction. Beyond its role as a ferry, it represents the aspirations and challenges of an industry navigating turbulent waters, striving to stay afloat amidst waves of uncertainty.
