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Aberdeen welcomes luxury cruise ships for record-breaking season

Aberdeen's cruise season sees a significant increase in visitor numbers and ship arrivals.

Luxury cruise ships docked in Aberdeen harbor
Aberdeen welcomes an unprecedented number of luxury cruise ships this season.

Introduction to Aberdeen’s booming cruise industry

Aberdeen is set to experience an unprecedented cruise season this year, welcoming two luxury cruise ships for the first time. The arrival of the Viking Vela and Fred Olsen Borealis marks a significant milestone for the city, which is gearing up for its busiest cruise season yet.

With a remarkable increase of nearly 30% in cruise calls, Aberdeen is poised to attract around 40,000 visitors between April and September.

Details of the luxury cruise ships

The Viking Vela, a state-of-the-art vessel built at a cost of £340 million, can accommodate up to 1,000 passengers across its 14 decks.

Owned by Viking Cruises, this ship is expected to provide guests with a unique experience, showcasing the rich maritime heritage and vibrant culture of Aberdeen. Wendy Atkin-Smith, managing director of Viking UK, expressed excitement about the ship’s inaugural visit, highlighting the city’s strong coastal culture and historical significance.

On the other hand, the Fred Olsen Borealis, measuring 238 meters in length and capable of carrying over 1,300 passengers, adds to the allure of this record-breaking season. Built in 2020, this ship is part of a diverse lineup of vessels that will be visiting Aberdeen, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a premier destination in the global cruise market.

Impact on local tourism and economy

The influx of cruise visitors is expected to significantly boost Aberdeen’s local economy. In addition to the 63 cruise visits scheduled, the city will also host the Tall Ships Races event in July, anticipated to attract around 400,000 visitors. This combination of events is set to enhance the city’s profile as a tourist destination, showcasing its unique attractions and cultural offerings.

Bob Sanguinetti, chief executive of the Port of Aberdeen, noted that 2025 is shaping up to be another record-breaking year for bookings, with impressive ships making multiple calls. The return of renowned cruise lines such as Costa Cruises and AIDA, along with maiden calls from sister vessels AIDAbella and AIDAluna, further emphasizes the growing interest in Aberdeen as a cruise destination.

Community involvement and visitor experience

Community engagement plays a crucial role in enhancing the visitor experience. Chris Foy, chief executive of VisitAberdeenshire, emphasized the importance of “authentic, people-led” experiences that attract cruise lines to the region. Volunteers will be present on the quayside, offering a warm welcome to arriving visitors, which is essential for creating a memorable experience.

As Aberdeen prepares for this exciting cruise season, the combination of luxury ships, cultural events, and community involvement promises to create a vibrant atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression on visitors. The city is not only embracing its maritime heritage but also positioning itself as a key player in the global cruise industry.


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