featured newsTurkish and Chinese shipyards in the running to build new Northern Isles ferriesSeptember 22, 2025 at 2:23 pmFour shipyards — two in Turkey and two in China — are in contention to build two new freight vessels destined for the Northern Isles. Turkish shipyards Cemre and Tersan, and GSI and Stena UK alongside reliance partner CMJL in China, have been selected to progress to invite to tender stage. Cabinet secretary for transport, Fiona Hyslop, said the Scottish Government was committed to investing in ferries to “better meet the needs of island communities”. “These new vessels will have increased freight capacity, higher operating speeds, and additional capacity for passengers in peak season. “This will enhance the efficiency and reliability of ferry services to better support the needs of businesses and communities in the Northern Isles for years to come.