Aberdeen's port expansion to ramp up local tourism with up to 12,000 visitors in 2023
More than 25 cruise calls are expected between April and September 2023
The £400m Aberdeen South Harbour expansion is set to provide a timely boost to the north east by brining in as many as 12,000 visitors from cruise ships this year.
It'll add an estimated £1.5m to the regional economy with at least 25 cruise calls currently scheduled between April and September.
The AIDAaura (pictured) docks on the 28th of April and can carry more than 1,200 passengers.
Chris Foy, Chief Executive, VisitAberdeenshire, said: "The opening of the South Harbour to cruise vessels in 2023 will be a timely boost to the tourism and hospitality sector in the North-east.
"Disembarking passengers - who will be met by our Welcome to Aberdeenshire volunteers – will have a wealth of experiences to enjoy during their time on our shores, planting the seed for future travel back to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire for a longer stay."
It's hoped that the harbour expansion will be complete between April and July this year.
It's currently around 60% operational, and the Chief Executive of the Port of Aberdeen, Bob Sanguinetti, hopes that cruise calls will increase when the expansion is finished.
"We expect to see year-on-year increases in the number of cruise calls as we ramp up our capacity and capability.
"It's encouraging to see that major international cruise lines are already booking their larger cruise ships for calls to Aberdeen in 2024 and beyond."
Mr Sanguinetti continued: "Cruise at South Harbour is often the first thing that people ask about so it’s incredibly exciting to see it taking shape.
"Port of Aberdeen is a gateway to the amazing attractions of North East Scotland.
"Our investment in South Harbour will enable tens of thousands more guests to experience this incredible region every year."