Its sister ship, Glen Sannox, launched six years ago, faces similar delays. Both ferries' construction at Ferguson shipyard has been hindered by design challenges, cost overruns, and delays, leading to the shipyard's administration in 2019 and subsequent nationalization.
Glen Rosa, expected to be significantly heavier than Glen Sannox due to more equipment being fitted, will use a dual-fuel system of marine diesel and liquefied natural gas (LNG), making them the first LNG ships built by a UK shipyard. While LNG is a cleaner fuel, it involves carbon costs for transportation from Qatar to North Ayrshire.
Both ships were initially intended for different routes but are now expected to serve the Arran route. Additionally, four other new CalMac vessels are being constructed in Turkey, with the first due for delivery in late 2024.