Parkol Marine Engineering has secured its first newbuild contract with Inverlussa Marine Services, marking the start of a new partnership between two prominent companies serving the UK maritime and aquaculture sectors.
The Whitby-based shipbuilder will construct New Build 073, a 27-metre hybrid fish feed carrier that will be named Margaret McKenzie.
Designed by Macduff Ship Design in collaboration with Inverlussa, the vessel will have an approximate feed carrying capacity of 400 tonnes and is expected to enter service in 2027.
The contract forms part of Inverlussa Marine Services’ wider fleet investment programme, which includes three new hybrid vessels scheduled for delivery in 2027.
Alongside contracts awarded to Macduff Shipyards and Nauplius Workboats, the order represents Inverlussa’s first collaboration with Parkol.
“As a family-owned business with a long-term outlook, we can make decisions that prioritise our customers, crew and the long-term success of the business rather than focusing on short-term shareholder returns,” said Ben Wilson, managing director of Inverlussa Marine Services, adding that Scottish aquaculture’s close links with local marine suppliers helped support jobs, investment and coastal communities.
Equipped with battery-hybrid technology and IMO Tier III-compliant engines, Margaret McKenzie has been designed to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency while supporting sustainable aquaculture operations around Scotland’s coastline.
Parkol commercial director Sally Atkinson described the award as a significant milestone for the company.
“We are delighted to have been selected by Inverlussa Marine Services for the construction of New Build 073,” she said. “Securing our first contract with Inverlussa reflects the reputation we have built for delivering high-quality, purpose-designed commercial vessels.”
Atkinson added that the vessel would combine ‘proven operational capability with modern hybrid technology’, supporting Inverlussa’s continued investment in a more efficient and sustainable fleet.
Construction is expected to begin at Parkol’s Whitby shipyard in the coming months.
