New Ferries Blessed at Birkenhead

The vessels, Sound of Scalpay and Sound of Sleat, have been commissioned by Scottish ferry operator Western Ferries and are being built in Birkenhead, continuing the town’s long association with shipbuilding and the maritime industry.

The naming and blessing ceremony brought together representatives of Western Ferries, the shipyard, local dignitaries and guests from Scotland.

The vessels were blessed by Rev’d Paul Bentley and Rev’d Keith Addenbrooke, both from parishes in Birkenhead.

For Rev’d Bentley, taking part in the ceremony was a particular honour.

“It’s been a real privilege to be invited into the ceremony and to meet all those who have been involved in the design and delivery of this vessel and its partner.”

He also highlighted the important role of faith within the maritime community, with the blessing offering prayers for the vessels, their crews and their future service.

The ceremony provided an opportunity to celebrate not only the two new ferries, but also the people involved in their construction and the continuing contribution of maritime industries to Birkenhead.

The Sound of Scalpay and Sound of Sleat take their names from Scottish waters in the north-west of the country.

The vessels will operate on Western Ferries’ services across the Firth of Clyde, providing an important transport link for communities and passengers in the region.

The event was also a reminder of Birkenhead’s proud shipbuilding heritage. While the industry has changed considerably, the construction of these two modern ferries demonstrates that shipbuilding and maritime engineering remain part of Birkenhead’s industrial story.

The ceremony also highlighted the enduring relationship between the town’s churches and its maritime community, with local churches continuing to welcome seafarers, dock workers and others connected with the river and docks.