Tenders/Retrofit Installation of Fin Stabiliser Systems on MV Isle of Mull and MV Lord of the Isles

Retrofit Installation of Fin Stabiliser Systems on MV Isle of Mull and MV Lord of the Isles

CalMac Ferries Limited

Published: Nov 11, 2026

Updated: Nov 11, 2026

About This Opportunity

This is a consulting contract in the architecture and engineering and transport and logistics sectors, with a focus on Maritime and Quantity Surveying. Located in United Kingdom, Europe, this opportunity is open to firms and consortiums.

Published through Public Contracts Scotland, a national government procurement portal. Public procurement tenders follow the country's national bidding regulations and may have specific eligibility and documentation requirements for consulting in the architecture and engineering sector. Consulting assignments are typically evaluated with a strong emphasis on the technical proposal, including the methodology and qualifications of key experts. Shortlisted firms may be invited to submit financial proposals in a second stage. This is an advance notice — the formal tender is expected to be published shortly. Interested parties can use this time to prepare documentation and identify potential partners.

Description

CalMac Ferries Limited (CFL) has a requirement to investigate and establish retrofit installation options for fin stabiliser systems on two managed vessels, MV Isle of Mull (IMO 8608339) and MV Lord of the Isles (IMO 8710869). The investigation will establish the available retrofit installation options. CFL is seeking engagement with Suppliers that are suitably qualified and experienced in the design, supply, installation, commissioning and ongoing support of fin stabiliser systems onboard these vessels. The purpose of this Prior Information Notice (PIN) is to notify the market of CFL's intention to undertake a potential retrofit programme and to initiate pre-market engagement with capable Suppliers The vessels currently operate with Rolls-Royce Letter A Crux fin stabiliser systems incorporating vane units that are no longer supported by the Original Equipment Manufacturer. Consequently, CFL is investigating replacement solutions which provide long-term operational supportability and improved lifecycle reliability. Suppliers are invited to provide information and outline concepts for a complete retrofit solution comprising, as a minimum: - Design support services including engineering assessment, specification development and installation planning. - Removal and replacement of the existing fin box arrangements, including all associated structural modifications and hull plating works. - Supply and installation of new fin stabiliser systems suitable for ferry operations. - New hydraulic systems, hydraulic power units and associated equipment. - Equipment and support arrangements capable of being fully supported for a minimum period of five years following installation. - Attendance by OEM-trained and approved personnel to support design reviews, installation activities, commissioning and sea trials. - Provision of aftersales support, maintenance services and spares availability. In addition, Suppliers should note the following vessel-specific requirements: MV Lord of the Isles (IMO 8710869) The vessel currently operates with control system software version "E-050156" dating from 2014. Suppliers should include concepts for replacement control systems and associated software as part of their retrofit solution. MV Isle of Mull (IMO 8608339) The vessel currently operates with ECO Control software installed in 2023. Suppliers are requested, where practicable, to propose solutions compatible with this software platform. Where compatibility is not achievable, Suppliers should provide recommendations for software upgrades or replacement solutions and identify any associated implications. CFL is seeking market feedback regarding: - Technical feasibility of the proposed retrofit programmes in line with description under II.2.4. - Availability of suitable technologies, equipment and systems, design support and on-site attendance of OEM trained and approved to complete design evaluation, specification and support the installation period. - Indicative sourcing, installation and commissioning timelines. - Vessel out-of-service duration requirements. - Indicative budget costs. - Design and approval requirements, including classification society considerations. - Opportunities for standardisation across both vessels. - Company experience including OEM status, previous retrofit references, dry dock duration, class approval route. This PIN is intended to support CFL in assessing market capability of proposed retrofit installations, establishing feasibility studies, refining project requirements and developing indicative cost and programme estimates prior to any future procurement exercise. Interested Suppliers are encouraged to register their interest and provide information (feedback as above) regarding their experience in delivering comparable fin stabiliser retrofit projects on passenger vessels, ferries or similar marine assets. Responses to this PIN may be used to inform CFL's procurement strategy, technical specification development and project planning activities. Issuance of this PIN does not commit CFL to commencing a procurement process or awarding any contract.

Data provenance

This notice is sourced from Public Contracts Scotland and was originally published on November 11, 2026. Last refreshed today. BidsFactory mirrors official procurement notices and links back to the source for full legal text.

About CalMac Ferries Limited

CalMac Ferries Limited has issued 166 procurement notices on BidsFactory, including 7 currently open and 10 awarded contracts. Activity concentrates in General Supplies & Services, Information & Communication Technology, and Transport & Logistics. All notices are published for United Kingdom. Notices are distributed via Public Contracts Scotland and UK FTS - Find a Tender Service. Most recent publication: November 11, 2026.

Frequently asked questions about this tender

Where will the contract be performed?

The contract is for delivery in United Kingdom. Foreign bidders should review local registration, taxation, and any in-country presence requirements before submitting.

How can I submit a bid?

Visit Public Contracts Scotland to access the full notice, required documents, and submission instructions provided by the contracting authority.

Who is the contracting authority?

This notice was issued by CalMac Ferries Limited in United Kingdom. The authority is responsible for evaluating bids, awarding the contract, and managing performance.

What type of contract is this?

This is a Consulting contract in the Architecture & Engineering Services sector. The classification helps bidders match the opportunity to their qualifications and registered scope of supply.