Port of Aberdeen Marks Another Record Cruise Season

Port of Aberdeen has welcomed 54,000 cruise guests in what it described in a press release as another record season.

Guest numbers were up 26 percent compared to 2025 and bookings now extend to 2033.

The port saw 71 cruise calls, 13 of them maiden calls, and Viking was its busiest cruise line, with 21 calls throughout the season.

Cruise lines operated across expedition, luxury, premium and mainstream markets.

Bob Sanguinetti DL, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, said: "Cruise tourism is creating an ocean of opportunity for Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, bringing visitors from around the world and supporting local businesses. We're working closely with VisitAberdeenshire and regional stakeholders to bring new cruise lines to the region and strengthen relationships with our existing operators."

CruiseAberdeenshire, a partnership between VisitAberdeenshire and the Port of Aberdeen, is working to promote the region to the global cruise market.

"Cruise tourism in the north-east is on the crest of a wave with the increased demand to visit our region throughout 2026," noted Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire.

"From the early business development stage, all the way through to the guest experience on the day, the CruiseAberdeenshire project continues to raise the profile and reputation of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, delivering new business today and inspiring future visits for tomorrow."

According to the press release, the tourism boost brought additional spending to local attractions, shops and hospitality businesses across the region, with a marked increase in turnover reported by Greyhope Bay on days when cruise ships docked at South Harbour.