Aberdeen’s burgeoning cruise industry had an extra reason to celebrate today (July 22) with the arrival of the ship Sea Cloud II which celebrates its 15th birthday whilst berthed in the granite city.
Much to the delight of the 62 crew and 96 passengers, Chris Bain, external relations director, from Aberdeen Harbour Board met the ship with a traditional Scots piper and a specially designed birthday cake when it docked at around 9am.
Aberdeen Harbour chief executive, Colin Parker said: “Sea Cloud II is a magnificent ship and we are extremely happy to be able to help Captain Christian Pfenninger, his crew and his passengers celebrate this milestone, as well as welcome them to Aberdeen.
“She is one of 25 cruise ship calls to visit Aberdeen Harbour this year – marking an almost 100% increase on 2015. This demonstrates just how the cruise industry has become increasingly important to Aberdeen City, Shire and Harbour in recent years, a trend we hope to see continue into the future.”
Having left Travemunde in Germany earlier this week, the vessel has visited Copenhagen, Christiansund, Stavanger, Bergen, Shetland and Orkney, and passengers are yet to visit Edinburgh at the end of their current trip.
A luxury wind-jammer cruise vessel, the ship has several decks; a sun deck; a lido deck (which includes bar, lounge, owner suites and library); a promenade deck (with reception area, restaurant, boutique, and the junior suites); and a cabin deck which also houses a fitness room and sauna.
While in the area, passengers are expected to visit local attractions including Crathes Castle and Glen Garioch Distillery as well as enjoying a tour of the City itself.
Last year 13 cruise ships visited Aberdeen Harbour, an increase from just eight in 2014.