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Port of Aberdeen records record cruise season with 54,000 passengers
The Port of Aberdeen has reported a record-breaking cruise tourism season in 2026, with passenger numbers reaching 54,000. This represents a 26% increase compared to the previous year.
During the season, 71 cruise ships docked at the port. Nearly half of these vessels were 220 metres or longer, including the Norwegian Star, which at 294 metres, became the longest vessel to ever berth in the city. Viking was identified as the most frequent operator, making 21 calls. Additionally, 13 vessels made their maiden calls to the port during this period.
Local officials and port executives noted that the influx of visitors has provided economic benefits to businesses across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The CruiseAberdeenshire partnership has also been active in promoting the region at international industry events in locations such as Miami, Reykjavik, and Gran Canaria. To support the visitor experience, the VisitAberdeenshire Welcome to Aberdeen programme utilized 42 volunteers who contributed 1,250 hours of service.
Entities
Aberdeen · Norwegian Star · Port of Aberdeen · Viking · VisitAberdeenshire
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Norwegian Star, measuring 294 metres, was the longest vessel to ever berth in the city. aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk · portalcruceros.cl · news.stv.tv
- [● 2 SOURCES] Thirteen vessels made their maiden calls to the port in 2026. portalcruceros.cl · news.stv.tv
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Cruise ship bookings for the port extend until 2033. portalcruceros.cl
- [● 2 SOURCES] Viking was the most frequent cruise line visitor with 21 calls. aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk · portalcruceros.cl
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Welcome to Aberdeen programme utilized 42 volunteers for 1,250 hours. news.stv.tv
- [● 3 SOURCES] Passenger numbers increased by 26% compared to 2025. aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk · portalcruceros.cl · news.stv.tv
- [● 3 SOURCES] Aberdeen recorded 54,000 cruise ship passengers during the 2026 season. aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk · portalcruceros.cl · news.stv.tv
- [● 3 SOURCES] A total of 71 cruise ships docked at the Port of Aberdeen during the season. aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk · portalcruceros.cl · news.stv.tv