Scrabster welcomes first cruise ship visit of the 2025 season
More than 2500 passengers sailed into Caithness last week as Scrabster Harbour marked the start of the 2025 cruise ship season.
The 251-metre-long cruise vessel AIDAsol – the largest cruise ship ever to visit the port – sailed in from Invergordon last Thursday.
The 71,304-tonne vessel previously visited in May 2024 when it brought a boost to businesses in nearby Thurso.
Last week the 2636 passengers were greeted by a dedicated team of local volunteers who provided a friendly welcome and shared insight into the area’s heritage and attractions.
The atmosphere was said to be vibrant from the outset, setting the tone for a memorable day for passengers and crew alike.
A full day of activities had been organised, with 20 coach tours – split evenly between morning and afternoon – taking visitors to popular locations across the region, including the Castle of Mey and John O’Groats, as well as on several scenic panoramic routes. Other excursions included visits to local distilleries, guided walking tours and cycling experiences.
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To support independent exploration, three large shuttle buses operated throughout the day, transporting passengers between the quayside and Thurso Riverside, enabling convenient access to local shops, cafes and attractions.
A spokesperson for the harbour said: “As the day drew to a close, the ship’s departure was marked by a traditional farewell. Local piper Aaron King and a group of Highland dancers performed on the quayside, earning enthusiastic applause from the ship’s guests and providing a memorable send-off against the backdrop of the evening sky.
“The successful arrival of AIDAsol is a strong start to what promises to be a vibrant cruise season for Scrabster and the wider Caithness region, contributing significantly to the local economy and showcasing the best of what the north Highlands has to offer.”