Islanders across the west coast of Scotland are set to benefit from a new chapter in ferry services as the Scottish Government confirms that CalMac Ferries will retain the Clyde and Hebrides routes under a directly awarded public contract.
The fresh agreement, set to begin on 1 October 2025, promises to put local communities at the centre of how these lifeline routes are run.
This marks a significant change in how ferry services are delivered, with a clear shift toward a public-first model that prioritises the voices and needs of islanders over market competition.
Announcing the decision in Parliament, Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop described the move as a chance to build a more resilient, responsive and community-led ferry network.
The contract award ends any uncertainty around a competitive tender and instead backs CalMac, which has served the islands for decades, to continue operating under strengthened public oversight.
Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick welcomed the decision, calling it a powerful step in ensuring ferry services reflect the priorities of those who use them most.
She said communities can now expect real improvements backed by long-term investment and the opportunity to shape the future of their transport links.
Discussions are already under way with island residents, local businesses, ferry staff and unions to ensure the next phase of service delivery truly reflects lived experience.
The government’s Islands Connectivity Plan will underpin this transition, with investment earmarked for infrastructure upgrades and the addition of twelve new vessels to modernise the fleet.
These vessels are expected to ease pressure on ageing ships and boost reliability across the network, particularly during peak seasons and adverse weather.
The decision to award the contract directly to CalMac signals more than just continuity — it’s a declaration that public ownership and accountability are central to delivering a service islanders can rely on.
CalMac will be expected to respond with improvements shaped by years of feedback and frustration from communities who depend on these links not only for travel but for healthcare, education, work and essential supplies.
The move is part of a wider shift in transport policy across Scotland, where public ownership and community collaboration are increasingly seen as key to building sustainable services.
By keeping the contract in public hands, ministers hope to ensure a ferry network that is not only more efficient but more empathetic.
As island communities look ahead to 2025, there is renewed hope that their lifeline routes will no longer be a source of anxiety, but a symbol of connection, care and commitment.
