Aberdeen reports record cruise season with 54,000 visitors
The Port of Aberdeen said tourist numbers increased by 26% from the previous year, with 71 vessels arriving during 2026.
The Port of Aberdeen has reported its best cruise ship season on record, with 54,000 people visiting the city. It said tourist numbers were 26% higher than in the previous year, while 71 vessels arrived during 2026.
Almost half of the visiting ships were at least 220 metres long. Norwegian Star, measuring 294 metres, was one of 13 maiden calls and set a new benchmark as the longest vessel to dock at the terminal.
VisitAberdeenshire said the visitors generated additional footfall and spending at attractions, shops and hospitality businesses across the region. Through its Welcome to Aberdeen programme, 42 volunteers contributed 1,250 hours during the cruise season.
The marine wildlife centre at Greyhope Bay reported a marked increase in turnover on days when cruise ships docked at South Harbour. Oxford Economics research commissioned by Cruise Lines International Association also found that cruise tourism generated money for Scotland’s economy in 2023.