Record 54,000 cruise tourists visit Aberdeen in best ever season

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 10:32 · Archive

Aberdeen attracted 54,000 cruise ship passengers in 2026, a 26% increase on the previous year, with 71 vessels docking at the port.

Aberdeen has recorded its best ever cruise ship season, with 54,000 tourists visiting the city, a 26% increase from the previous year. Seventy-one vessels docked at the port during the 2026 season, with Viking making 21 calls, the most of any operator. The Norwegian Star, at 294 metres long, became the largest ship ever to visit Aberdeen.

The Port of Aberdeen chief executive Bob Sanguinetti said cruise tourism was creating 'an ocean of opportunity' for the region, bringing visitors from around the world and supporting local businesses. VisitAberdeenshire reported that the influx of tourists brought additional footfall and spending in local attractions, shops and hospitality businesses across the region.

Greyhope Bay marine wildlife centre reported a marked increase in turnover on days when cruise ships docked at South Harbour, providing increased funding for activities and projects. Garioch Heritage Centre in Inverurie welcomed regular cruise passenger visits over the past two seasons, with volunteer guides offering insight into local culture. VisitAberdeenshire's volunteer programme saw 42 volunteers contribute 1,250 hours throughout the season, welcoming cruise guests at the quayside.

How it is being reported

• Port of Aberdeen reports best ever cruise ship seasonA total of 54,000 people visited the city leading to increased spending at local attractions.BBC North East Orkney And Shetland · 13 Oct, 10:08
• Revealed: Record year as more than 50,000 cruise ship tourists visit AberdeenThis mammoth figure is a 26% boost from last year as 71 ships docked in the north-east - with bosses promising to attract more lucrative vessels to the city.Press and Journal · 13 Oct, 06:00

In this story: Aberdeen · Port of Aberdeen · Viking · Norwegian Star · Greyhope Bay · Garioch Heritage Centre · VisitAberdeenshire · Bob Sanguinetti

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem