Cruise tourism event planned ahead of another busy season

AN EVENT designed to “unlock the future of cruise tourism” in Shetland is planned next month ahead of what looks set to be another busy season.

The ‘Cruise Forward – Maximising Shetland’s Potential’ event is taking place at Mareel on 12 March. Anyone interested is advised to register in advance.

The event blurb said as Shetland’s cruise market continues to evolve, there are “new opportunities for community groups and businesses to engage, collaborate and diversify”.

It will take place just a few weeks before the 2026 cruise season kicks off in Lerwick.

The 229-metre Viking Neptune will arrive at Lerwick on Monday 30 March from Bergen, with an estimated 930 passengers on board.

Lerwick Port Authority said there are 147 visits planned in the town from cruise ships – with the last slated for 12 November. There are also six visits scheduled from sail training vessels or tall ships.

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Some days stand to be busier than others, with few instances of three ships – of varying sizes – in Lerwick on the same day.

Meanwhile on 24 June it is estimated that there will be more than 4,000 passengers in total in Lerwick, on board the Nieuw Statendam and Bolette.

There will be maiden calls from a range of ships including Sky Princess (330 metres), Viking Mira (240 metres), Evrima (190 metres) and Le Commandant Charcot (150 metres).

While cruise calls mainly take place in Lerwick, there are also occasional visits to other ports such as Scalloway and the islands, including Fair Isle and Baltasound.

The Business Gateway event planned for March will include a range of industry speakers, including Saskia Vrolyk (expedition voyage planner at HX Expeditions), Aneta Meszka (head of operations for Scotland at Excursions Ltd) and Jens Skrede (managing director of Cruise Europe).

Local organisations including Business Gateway, VisitScotland and Promote Shetland will also be on hand to highlight available advice, funding and guidance for businesses interested in engaging with the cruise sector.

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It is being jointly arranged and funded by Lerwick Port Authority, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Shetland Islands Council (SIC), Business Gateway and VisitScotland.

Chair of the SIC’s development committee Dennis Leask said: “Shetland’s cruise market is evolving and presenting opportunities for individuals, community enterprises and businesses to diversify, collaborate and grow.

“This ‘Cruise Forward’ event will explore cruise ship trends, understand the needs of the market, and highlight practical ways to enhance visitor experiences.

“There will be a strong emphasis on local enterprise and the benefits to the local economy.  I’d urge anyone with an interest in this area to come along, listen in and engage with the discussions.”