VisitAberdeenshire’s ‘Welcome to Aberdeenshire’ volunteer programme enters its fourth season in 2026 with 42 passionate locals volunteering to help make memories for cruise visitors and to lay the foundation for return visits.
Peterson Energy Logistics - the international energy logistics and supply chain solutions company - will sponsor the programme for a second year, with the scheme supported by Port of Aberdeen.
The ‘Welcome to Aberdeenshire’ volunteers greet arriving cruise passengers at Port of Aberdeen’s North and South Harbours, with more than 70 cruise calls earmarked from March to September.
Volunteer Eleanor Brennan, beginning her fourth season quayside, sums up the experience, saying: “I feel involved with a very important part of Aberdeen's economic revival. It gives me pleasure to think that we are making visitors' perception of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire more positive and personal. It's a pleasure to get to know the other volunteers.”
This sentiment is echoed by fellow volunteer Bert Swinborn, who added: “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.”
Chris Foy, Chief Executive, VisitAberdeenshire, said: “The influence of this programme extends beyond the day itself. We know that the quality of welcome and experience of the destination must be of the highest order if our cruise guests are to turn their ‘taster’ of our region into a repeat visit for a longer stay.
“Peterson’s sponsorship has allowed us to further develop and grow the cruise volunteer programme.
"We thank them for their generous sponsorship and look forward to a successful cruise season ahead.”
Sarah Moore, Chief Executive of Peterson Energy Logistics, said: “We are delighted to once again support VisitAberdeenshire’s cruise volunteer programme. The passion and commitment of the volunteers is great and their work as ambassadors welcoming visitors sets an important tone. Our region is rich and diverse, and we are proud to align with this initiative which, like we do, connects the land and sea.”
Bob Sanguinetti DL, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, said: "The 'Welcome to Aberdeenshire' volunteers are key to delivering a safe, quality service for our cruise guests. They provide a warm Aberdeen welcome and helpful visitor information to tens of thousands of people from across the globe every year. We are pleased to support the 2026 volunteer programme, which will see a record number of cruise calls visit the city."