Aberdeen's burgeoning cruise ship industry anticipates injecting GBP 20+ million into the city's economy.
The port in the northeast is preparing to accommodate 100+ cruise ships annually by 2027, with a record number of 50 vessels expected to arrive this year.
The surge in cruise calls to Aberdeen has resulted in a substantial increase in guest numbers, projected to reach 34,000 in 2024 from the previous count of ~3000.
The advent of larger vessels at the port's new south harbor is forecasted to generate ~GBP 4.5 million this year, with potential for this figure to surpass GBP 20M in the years ahead.
On average, visitors spend ~GBP 134 each during their cruise stopovers in Scotland. Notably, the 290-meter-long Costa Favolosa, capable of accommodating 4000 guests and crew, is scheduled to arrive in July, further contributing to the city's economic growth through tourism.
Bob Sanguinetti, CEO of Port of Aberdeen said that with South Harbour complete, they were "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."