Northern Isles Ferry Services contract consultation opens

The public consultation on the next iteration of the Northern Isles Ferry Services contract (NIFS4) is now open.

Running for 12 weeks until 13 October 2025, the online consultation invites island communities, businesses and stakeholders who use the service to submit their views and help shape the development of the specification for the next generation of the contract.

A series of public engagement sessions is being planned for later in the year and a dedicated NIFS 4 webpage has been launched to provide updates on the contract’s development.

Minister for Connectivity Jim Fairlie said:

“I am pleased to open this public consultation on the future of the Northern Isles Ferry Services contract, as direct engagement with those who rely on the service will be an essential part of developing the next generation of contract.

“Our aim for NIFS4 is not only to deliver a service that meets current needs, but one that is fit for the future. Alongside the proposed vessel replacement programme set out in the Islands Connectivity Plan, this will help ensure these ferry services are reliable and resilient for years to come.

“We recognise the importance of these ferry routes and this consultation will allow our stakeholders to share their views to inform the future specification for these services. I would strongly encourage everyone with an interest to take part in the consultation and help us ensure that these lifeline connections continue to deliver for our island communities.”