CruiseAberdeenshire, a new partnership between VisitAberdeenshire and Port of Aberdeen, has  been launched with the goal of promoting the region to the international cruise market and securing business for future years.  

Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, said: “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, said: “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.”

After a successful 2024 cruise season, which saw cruise calls rise to 49 from 22 in 2022,  CruiseAberdeenshire will position Aberdeen as an untapped tourist destination at key global  trade shows and industry events.

The partnership aims to highlight the expanding opportunities for cruise lines and shore  excursion operators, while showcasing the invaluable guest experience that awaits cruise  guests on arrival at Port of Aberdeen.

In 2024, VisitAberdeenshire secured funding to enrich the cruise guest experience upon arrival  into the city including the purchase of an information trailer, the running of an enhanced  volunteer training programme, and a 50% 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 this year, an 82% increase  from the previous year.

In addition to this, Port of Aberdeen 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.  Looking ahead, the port anticipates up to 70 cruise calls in 2025 and has bookings as far out as  2027.