This public procurement record has 2 releases in its history.

TenderUpdate

11 Dec 2025 at 15:43

Tender

18 Nov 2025 at 15:21

Summary of the contracting process

Orkney Islands Council (Harbour Authority) is seeking a suitably qualified contractor for the design and build of three RoPax vessels, with an option for a fourth. The procurement falls under the goods category, specifically for ships and boats, and is located in Kirkwall, United Kingdom. The procurement process is in the tender stage, utilising a restricted procedure. Key dates include the revised submission deadline of 28th January 2026, and the anticipated dispatch of invitations by 11th February 2026. The contract value is estimated between £75,000,000 and £100,000,000, and aims to replace current ferry services as part of Orkney's Ferry Replacement Programme.

This tender presents a significant opportunity for businesses specialising in shipyard design and construction, particularly those experienced in ferry and similar vessel projects. Companies with expertise in modern maritime technology will find this an attractive prospect due to the specification involving advanced vessel features. Given the community benefits outlined, firms with a commitment to local employment, training, and Fair Work policies will be well-positioned to compete. The project promises sustained business growth through extensive engagement and collaboration opportunities with the local supply chain in Orkney.

How relevant is this notice?

Notice Title

Provision of Shipyard Detailed Design and Build Contract RoPax Vessels

Notice Description

Orkney Islands Council has a requirement for a suitably qualified Contractor to complete a Shipyard Detailed Design and Build Contract for three new RoPax Vessels with an option for a fourth vessel to the same design.

Lot Information

Lot 1

Orkney Islands Council has a requirement for a suitably qualified Contractor to complete a Shipyard Detailed Design and Build Contract for RoPax vessels, three identical new RoPax Vessels with an option for a fourth vessel to the same design. Additional information: Contract Value is within the range of 75000000 to 100000000 GBP and includes the additional option of a fourth vessel.

Options: Contract is for three vessels with an option for a fourth vessel.

Publication & Lifecycle

Open Contracting ID
ocds-h6vhtk-05e381
Publication Source
Find A Tender Service
Latest Notice
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/082144-2025
Current Stage
Tender
All Stages
Tender

Procurement Classification

Notice Type
Tender Notice
Procurement Type
Standard
Procurement Category
Goods
Procurement Method
Selective
Procurement Method Details
Restricted procedure
Tender Suitability
Not specified
Awardee Scale
Not specified

Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)

CPV Divisions

34 - Transport equipment and auxiliary products to transportation


CPV Codes

34500000 - Ships and boats

34510000 - Ships

34512000 - Ships and similar vessels for the transport of persons or goods

34512100 - Ferry boats

Notice Value(s)

Tender Value
£100,000,000 £100M-£1B
Lots Value
£100,000,000 £100M-£1B
Awards Value
Not specified
Contracts Value
Not specified

Notice Dates

Publication Date
11 Dec 20258 months ago
Submission Deadline
9 Jan 2026Expired
Future Notice Date
Not specified
Award Date
Not specified
Contract Period
Not specified - Not specified
Recurrence
This procurement is Phase 1 of Orkney's Ferry Replacement Programme and Phase 2 is anticipated to include the procurement of further RoPax Vessels within the next 2 years.

Notice Status

Tender Status
Active
Lots Status
Active
Awards Status
Not Specified
Contracts Status
Not Specified

Contracting Authority (Buyer)

Main Buyer
Orkney Islands Council (Harbour Authority)
Contact Name
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →
Contact Email
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →
Contact Phone
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →

Buyer Location

Locality
KIRKWALL
Postcode
KW15 1NY
Postcode Area
Kirkwall
Country
Scotland

Major Region (ITL 1)
TLM Scotland
Basic Region (ITL 2)
TLM2 Highlands and Islands
Small Region (ITL 3)
TLM20 Highlands and Islands
Delivery Location
TLM65 Orkney Islands

Local Authority
Orkney Islands
Electoral Ward
Kirkwall East
Westminster Constituency
Orkney and Shetland

Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS)

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The Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) is a framework designed to increase transparency and access to public procurement data in the public sector. It is widely used by governments and organisations worldwide to report on procurement processes and contracts.

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