Specialist boat builders Parkol Marine Engineering have made significant progress on the 24-metre monohull vessel since construction began in November last year. The hull and superstructure are now substantially complete and painted. The vessel will soon be lifted into the water from the boatyard on the River Esk.
In the coming weeks, boatyard staff will focus on fitting out internal spaces and testing systems before sea trials commence. The new ferry will replace the current forty-year-old Good Shepherd IV, which has served the crossing between Fair Isle and the Shetland mainland since 1986. This vessel is vital for the island community, regularly transporting passengers, large goods, and essential freight.
Meanwhile, work continues on Fair Isle harbour to install a winch house and cradle for the boat noust, enabling the vessel to be taken out of the water during poor weather. Minor finishing works remain on the extended pier and new breakwater at Grutness on the Shetland mainland.
The project's estimated total cost for the vessel replacement and harbour infrastructure upgrades is £45.4 million. This is funded by £18.6 million from Shetland Islands Council and a £26.8 million grant from the UK Government’s ‘Levelling Up Fund’. The contract to build the new vessel, valued at £5.6 million, was awarded to Parkol Marine Engineering in June 2025.
The new vessel is anticipated to depart Whitby for Shetland before Christmas, weather permitting.
“"This is a key milestone for the project– after months under wraps, it’s good to see the new vessel unveiled before the final stages of work take place. The Good Shepherd V will be such an important asset for the social and economic future of Fair Isle. I look forward to seeing more of the progress in the coming weeks before she leaves Whitby on her way to Shetland."
