Introduction of Lie-Flat Sleeping Pods on Northern Isles Ferries
New lie-flat sleeping pods installed on overnight ferries operating between Aberdeen, Orkney, and Shetland have been met with strong approval, selling out on their first night of availability to the public.
The upgrade, implemented by Serco NorthLink Ferries, replaced 30 traditional sleeping pods that only partially reclined with 18 electronically-powered seats capable of converting into fully-flat beds.
This development follows years of passenger feedback expressing concerns about cabin availability, affordability, and safety issues related to potentially driving while fatigued after overnight journeys.
Susan Taylor, a resident of Orkney and frequent ferry user, was among the first to experience the new pods and described them as making a "massive difference" to her travel comfort.
Previous Sleeping Arrangements and Passenger Feedback
Before the introduction of the new pods, passengers unable to secure a cabin had limited options: traditional pods that did not fully recline, reclining chairs, or sleeping in public areas of the vessel, sometimes even on the floor.
In 2023, Transport Scotland conducted a consultation with island residents regarding expectations for the new Northern Isles ferry services contract. The feedback revealed that some passengers found reclining seats insufficient for restful sleep during the lengthy overnight crossings.
Taylor emphasized the importance of obtaining quality rest during travel.
"I'd never used a (traditional) pod - my daughter had been in them and said you just couldn't get comfortable, so for me it's either a cabin or nothing," she said.
"I feel that because I'm going from Orkney to Shetland and back, I don't want to take up a cabin that other people could have,
"So for me it's a good halfway house where I can get some sleep but I'm not taking up a cabin that someone who is going all the way to Aberdeen might need."
Taylor has made numerous trips to Shetland this year and also travels to Aberdeen.
"It's one of these things where you think, what a massive difference it makes," she added.
"It's also cheaper than a cabin, and it was just so comfortable and quiet, I felt quite safe in the lounge."
Support from Local Officials and Safety Considerations
Alex Armitage, a Green councillor on Shetland Islands Council and long-time advocate for more horizontal sleeping options, welcomed the introduction of the lie-flat pods.
"I'm really pleased. NorthLink Ferries are a really important lifeline service for islanders.
"A lot of people using the ferry have to work or drive or do safety-critical activities the next day.
"So, if people can't get a good night's sleep, then there's real danger related to that, particularly for people who have to drive long distances.
"From a health and safety point of view, getting a better night's sleep on the boat is absolutely critical."
Design and Features of the New Sleeping Pods
The new pods, designed by Norwegian company Eknes, are believed to be a first in the marine industry. Each pod costs £30 to book.
They include amenities such as a duvet and pillow, a built-in table, a three-point power socket, and a USB charging point.
Future Prospects and Feedback from Ferry Staff
Seamus Campbell, onboard services manager on the ferry Hrossey, expressed enthusiasm about offering this new service to islanders, moving away from traditional pods.
"It's quite exciting to see something new offered to islanders instead of the traditional pods," he said.
Campbell noted that if the lie-flat pods continue to be popular, there may be opportunities to incorporate them into the design of two new vessels expected to enter service in 2029.
"We're looking forward to the introduction of the new freight-flex vessels in a few years' time and this gives us the option to test the waters on how successful these could be."
