A new cross-channel ferry operator should be set up under the banner of David MacBrayne Group called Scottish Ferries. This would complement its existing brands including Caledonian MacBrayne and Argyll Ferries. It would also be good for Northlink Ferries to be moved under the banner of the Group.

Scottish Ferries should operate cross channel cruise Ro-Pax ferry services from Ardrossan to Belfast and the Isle of Man and from Rosyth to Rotterdam, Hamburg and Bergen. This will open access from Scotland to its neighbours. Comparable companies elsewhere to be inspired by include Brittany Ferries, Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries, Stena Line, DFDS Seaways, etc. It should order newbuild ferries for the services and these should be owned by Caledonian Maritime Assets. A good example of the kind of ferry required is the new WB Yeats being built for Irish Ferries.