MV Catriona - Launch Day

Today we witnessed the launch of the MV Catriona - the first ship built since Jim McColl rescued the yard when things looked very dark indeed.

Since the rescue we have seen investment in infrastructure, and the rebuilding continues.

Talking to the yard workers it was clear to see that they were happy with the new scenario and the future looks and feels good.

The weather threatened prior to the launch but pleased to say we were blessed with some sunshine at the right time.

When in service she can carry 150 passengers, 23 cars, or two HGVs. She is the third ferry built at Fergusons utilising a hybrid system of diesel and battery power.

After sea trials we expect to see her in service in the summer of next year.

 Piper Plays

 Getting ready for the Launch

 Crowds start to Gather

 Rainbow

 Waiting for the Launch

 Bottom is Wet

 A Loud Cheer


In She Goes

 Local school kids enjoy this piece of History

Ready for the next One

 The man who saved the shipyard

 Launch Party

 Best View?

Battler Assists to Berth

Jim McColl with the shipyard Workers

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.com - better resolution and options to licence.

Ferguson Marine - preferred bidder for Ferries Contract

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon visited Ferguson Marine at Port Glasgow this morning.

She toured the facility and engaged with the the workers showing a keen interest in the building of the current ferry on the slipway.

She then announced to the management and workers that they were the preferred bidder for the contract to build two new Caledonian MacBrayne ferries.

First  Minister Nicola Sturgeon arriving at Ferguson Marine Shipyard

 First  Minister Nicola Sturgeon engages with Workers

 Nicola Sturgeon and Yard Owner Jim McColl

Nicola Sturgeon Looks on as Welding Progresses

Welding in Progress

 Hats Off


Celebrating

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.com - better resolution and options to licence.

Fairfield Heritage Centre

After my visit to BAE Systems I popped in to the Fairfield Heritage Centre for another browse.

The staff are extremely warm and welcoming and it's well worth a visit to see the heritage on display.

I'm sure I'll be back for another visit one of these days.

Latrine

 Display

 Through the Doors

Reception

Exhibit Room

Bowler and the Bunnet 

 Flora and Jean Meet and Greet Visitors

T-Shirts for Sale

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.com - better resolution and options to licence.

BAE Govan Open Day

Today was the open day for the families of BAE Govan workers.

Thankfully the weather stayed dry for most of the time with just the odd shower.

A good opportunity to see the sheds and how shipbuilding has evolved and changed to the present day facilities.


Block for 'Prince of Wales' Aircraft Carrier

 Block for 'Prince of Wales' Aircraft Carrier

Fire Appliance

Inside Cab

 Forward View from Cab

 Main Shed

 Main Shed

  Fabrication Shed

  Fabrication Shed

  Fabrication Shed

 Fabrication Shed

 105mm Artillery Gun

 Work Boat

 BAE Systems

 Massive Block

 Waiting Departure

 Bow Section


Emergency Crew

 Next Contract in Place

Model Tug with a Skeleton Crew 

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.com - better resolution and options to licence.