Costa Favolosa is one of the major cruise ships due to call at the Port of Aberdeen in 2024. Image - Port of Aberdeen
News that the Port of Aberdeen is gearing up to welcome more than 100 cruise ships annually by 2027 has been welcomed as a major boost for the Granite City’s economy by Aberdeen Inspired.
The projection comes as 50 cruise calls have been confirmed so far for 2024 – potentially bringing a £4.5 million windfall to the north-east this year.
The number of cruise calls has grown by over 130% since 2022 and has increased guest numbers from around 3,000 up to 34,000 expected this year, buoyed by the arrival of larger ships at the port’s new Aberdeen South Harbour.
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “There is now no doubt the cruise ship sector is bringing a high tide of visitors and much-needed investment to the Granite City with the brilliant news that 50 of these magnificent ships are due to visit the Port of Aberdeen this season.
"Even better is the prediction we could be welcoming more than 100 cruise ships by 2027 – a boost for our local economy that cannot be understated and is already having a major impact.”
The new South Harbour of the Port of Aberdeen is ready to welcome cruise ship visitors. Image - Port of Aberdeen
With each cruise call to Scotland generating an average spend of £134 per passenger, the potential boost to the regional economy is significant. In 2024, this could total over £4.5 million and potentially exceed £20 million in subsequent years if guest numbers reach 150,000.
The port will welcome a new size and scale of cruise ships this year, including the Costa Favolosa, a 290m-long ship with a capacity exceeding 4,000 guests and crew. Joining her are maritime giants such as the 253m-long AIDAsol and AIDAdiva, alongside exclusive vessels like the returning Sea Cloud Spirit and other boutique ships.
Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Port of Aberdeen said: “With South Harbour complete, we are fully focused on consolidating and accelerating growth in this key sector. This will be largely driven by increasing the number of larger cruise ships visiting the region and we’re having positive discussions with existing and prospective customers to secure this business.
“We’re confident that our world-class facility, coupled with the amazing destination, will position Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire as one of the UK’s top cruise destinations.”
Local businesses and attractions are gearing up for another busy year of increased footfall from cruise calls. Success stories from 2023 include the expansion of Aberdeen Whisky Shop to accommodate whisky tasting for cruise tourists and St Machar’s Cathedral, which experienced a 40% uplift to 42,000 visitors, along with a 50% increase in donations and shop takings.
Cruise ship passengers received a warm Aberdeen welcome when they arrive at the South Harbour. Image - Port of Aberdeen
Welcome to Aberdeenshire volunteers, essential in guiding and informing guests about the local offerings, will be back on the quayside in 2024. The VisitAberdeenshire programme, supported by Aberdeen Inspired and Port of Aberdeen, delivered over 300 volunteer hours last summer from around 20 engaged, energetic and enthused individuals with a shared passion for their region.
Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire, said: “The growth in calls for 2024 is a vote of confidence in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire as an emerging cruise destination. VisitAberdeenshire is scaling up its work to enhance the welcome offered to passengers, the readiness of local suppliers and to secure more business from cruise operators and shore excursion companies.”
Mr Watson added: “Aberdeen Inspired is delighted to support the Welcome To Aberdeenshire volunteer programme which will ensure the 34,000 cruise guests expected this year get the best possible experience and the most out of their time in our beautiful part of the world, which is rightly becoming one of the UK’s top cruise destinations.”
Under the 'CruiseAberdeenshire' initiative, Port of Aberdeen is collaborating with VisitAberdeenshire, Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeen Inspired, Aberdeenshire Council, and VisitScotland to attract more cruise lines and enhance visitor experiences.
Information sessions will take place at South Harbour and online from 2pm-4pm on 21st and 28th February to brief stakeholders on the 2024 cruise season and how local businesses can capitalise on the growth in cruise tourism. The events are free to attend, and registration is open on Eventbrite.