As the South Harbour enters the final stage of construction, we’ve continued our work with Port of Aberdeen to document some of their highlights this year.
First Minister Visit
First Minister Humza Yousaf visited the harbour at the beginning of April. He was joined by the Just Transition Secretary Màiri McAllan. They came to the “energy capital of the world” to discuss the harbour’s future and what that means for the rest of Scotland and the UK. The First Minister also announced £25 million investment into the trust port, to assist Port of Aberdeen in reaching a Net Zero future.
UK’s First Net Zero Port
Later in April we joined Naveed Qamar (Head of SHEQ) and Bob Sanguinetti (CEO) as they explained what steps Port of Aberdeen are taking to become the first port to achieve Net Zero by 2040. Their plan includes investing £55 million over the next 10 years on new technologies. This joint effort between the port, ship owners, government and stakeholders is set to bring a brighter future to Aberdeen and the rest of the UK.
AIDAaura
For the first time, Port of Aberdeen welcomed a cruise ship into the South Harbour. This crowning achievement needed a big celebration and that’s what it got. Bagpipers, drummers, and Scottish dancers welcomed the German cruise vessel to the city. The AIDAaura is the longest ship ever to dock in Aberdeen, with capacity for an impressive 1,200 passengers. The arrival of this vessel marks the start of many more cruises coming into the port this year.
International Day of Women in Maritime
Later in May, Port of Aberdeen highlighted the empowering nature of diversity for International Day of Women in Maritime 2023. Six women (and one baby) from different sections of the organisation took the time to remind us why a fair work environment is a strong environment, where everyone can succeed. The result is a striking film that we hope represents women thriving in an ever-expanding industry.
It’s been an eventful year already, and there’s much more to come: the official opening of South Harbour is scheduled for the early Autumn, marked by a special VIP event. We are already in discussion about filming the event and working with the event team to create some exciting new content for the guests to enjoy on the day. Watch this space!