Cruise ship is largest ever to berth at Scrabster harbour
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Scrabster harbour’s cruise season has begun with a visit by the largest vessel to ever berth at the port.
The 71,304-tonne AIDAsol, operated by AIDA Cruises, arrived at 6.30am on Tuesday. The Sphinx-class vessel is 253 metres in length.
The ship is on an 11-night voyage of Scotland and Norway, starting and finishing at Hamburg, with 2071 passengers and 624 crew aboard.
The passengers enjoyed 16 organised excursions to attractions and locations around Caithness. In addition, Scrabster Harbour Trust provided free shuttle buses to take the visitors and crew into Thurso.
The guests were welcomed at the quayside and in the town by a volunteer “meet and greet” team providing information on the local attractions, facilities and shops.
Prior to departure, the passengers were entertained quayside by Caithness Junior Pipe Band and local Highland dancers.
AIDAsol also stopped off in May 2023. On that occasion the ship moored in Thurso Bay, whereas this time it berthed at Scrabster’s St Ola Pier.
AISAsol has a further two Scrabster calls scheduled for the 2024 season.
Trust manager Sandy Mackie said: “The berthing of the AIDAsol is further demonstration of the harbour’s capacity to accommodate larger ships. We look forward to the remainder of the cruise season.
“Although our cruise vessel numbers are modest in comparison to some other ports, I am encouraged that we have a number of maiden calls and the trust will continue to work hard to increase future bookings.
“The trust appreciates the community cooperation and effort to ensure the cruise visitors have an enjoyable experience.”
