35 Welcome to Aberdeenshire volunteers were celebrated on 8 October, marking the end of Aberdeen’s 2025 cruise season. The volunteers gave over 1,000 hours of their time this summer to provide warm smiles, visitor information and conversation for thousands of arriving passengers. The blue coated Aberdonians were quayside for a record 38 cruise ship arrivals, an increase of 65% on 2024, and also supported two events at P&J Live.
Commenting on why he takes time out to welcome visitors, volunteer Bert Swinborn said, “I most enjoy meeting and helping visitors from all over the world who are keen to see our city and beyond. It gives me a real sense of pride to highlight the many unique and beautiful attractions Aberdeen and the north east of Scotland has to offer.”
The programme, delivered by VisitAberdeenshire and supported by Peterson Energy Logistics and with the aid of a UK Shared Prosperity Fund grant from Aberdeen City Council, also provided a comprehensive training programme throughout the year, covering Health & Safety, World Host Customer Services as well as familiarisation visits to Old Aberdeen, Pittodrie, the Aberdeen Adventurer, and Royal Deeside.
Chris Foy, CEO at VisitAberdeenshire commented, “This programme has really established itself in 2025 as the cruise arrivals into Aberdeen have continued to increase. Whether 70 passengers, or 1,700 passenger disembark, and whatever the weather, our local experts are sharing warm welcomes, bienvenues and wilkommens and by extension, supporting local businesses who are visited by passengers. The support from Peterson has enabled us to continue to deliver this high level of service, and help to make wonderful memories for our visitors.”
The volunteers gathered at the Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen’s Trinity Hall on 8 October for a recognition event that was supported by Aberdeen Inspired, McGill’s Buses and the Port of Aberdeen. The programme is expected to continue and grow as Aberdeen attracts more cruises vessels to its harbours.
More information can be found on Visit Aberdeenshire’s website.
