THE second of the two long-awaited ferries being built at Ferguson Marine's Port Glasgow shipyard is set to be launched next week.

MV Glen Rosa, previously known as Hull 802, will be transferred from land to water for the first time on Tuesday and the Inverclyde community is being invited to attend to watch the milestone moment.

Greenock Telegraph: Hull 802Hull 802 (Image: Clark Communications)

Sister vessel MV Glen Sannox began her sea trials in February and is due to be handed over to Caledonian MacBrayne later this year, while Glen Rosa, which will have the capacity to carry up to 852 passengers plus 127 cars, is scheduled for completion by September 2025.

The 102-metre dual fuel vessel will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine gas oil (MGO).

After the launch, outfitting and other installation work will be carried out over the next year and a half before the vessel is finally handed over to CalMac.

Recently-appointed interim chief executive at Ferguson's, John Petticrew, said: “The launch of Hull 802 is an important milestone.

"The majority of our workforce live in Inverclyde or the surrounding areas. That’s why we’re inviting the local community to join us for this milestone event.

"The progress on Hull 802 demonstrates the hard work being done by everyone at the yard as we stay focused on getting both ferries delivered as soon as possible.”

Greenock Telegraph: MV Glen Rosa will enter the Clyde for the first time on April 9MV Glen Rosa will enter the Clyde for the first time on April 9 (Image: George Munro)

The shipyard gates will be open from 12.30pm on April 9, with the launch scheduled for around 1.30pm.

Management say that access to the yard will be on a first come, first served basis.

At the launch, there will be a naming ceremony with a celebratory bottle smash on the vessel and a blessing of the ship by local minister, Rev William Boyle, of Port Glasgow New Parish Church.

Several dignitaries are also expected to attend the launch.