CruiseAberdeenshire launched to boost Aberdeen’s global cruise market
VisitAberdeenshire and Port of Aberdeen have joined forces to launch CruiseAberdeenshire, a strategic partnership aimed at promoting the region to the global cruise market and securing long-term business growth.
Building on a successful 2024 cruise season, which saw cruise calls more than double to 49 from 22 in 2022, CruiseAberdeenshire will showcase Aberdeen as a hidden gem for international tourists. The initiative will focus on positioning the city and surrounding region as a prime cruise destination at major global trade shows and industry events.
The partnership will focus on highlighting the expanding opportunities for cruise lines and shore excursion operators, while showcasing the guest experience for those arriving at Port of Aberdeen.
Looking ahead, the port anticipates up to 70 cruise calls in 2025 and has bookings as far out as 2027.
In 2024, VisitAberdeenshire purchased a new information trailer and enhanced the volunteer training programme with a 50 per cent increase in volunteer numbers since 2023.
The volunteer programme creates a positive first impression of the city with warm welcome and practical inspiration for cruise guests on how to make the most of their day ashore. Supported by Port of Aberdeen, the programme delivered 547 volunteer hours in 2024, an 82 per cent increase from the previous year.
Port of Aberdeen also ensured all cruise guests received an authentic Scottish welcome, with Alba Bagpipes performing as each cruise ship arrived throughout the year.
Thanks to the port’s experienced team and upgraded infrastructure, Aberdeen is now attracting larger vessels to the region, including the 290-metre Costa Favolosa which visited twice in 2024.
Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, says: “The successful 2024 cruise season is testament to the dedication of the teams who made it possible. The CruiseAberdeenshire partnership will enhance the world-class service already provided to cruise guests at the port and will position Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire as one of the UK’s top cruise destinations.”
Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire, says: “The powerful combination of compelling visitor experiences across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire region paired with excellent infrastructure and capabilities of Port of Aberdeen tell a compelling story to decision makers. Momentum is building at just the right time.
“CruiseAberdeenshire is a unified, joined up approach to highlight the region’s pull as a cruise destination, and together we’re looking ahead to a bright future.”
