Behind The Scenes With Our Welcome to Aberdeenshire Volunteers
End-of-season recognition
Over the past months, we’ve focused on training, engagement, and feedback to ensure the programme continues to thrive.
End-of-season feedback sessions gave our volunteers the chance to share their experiences and help shape refinements for 2026. We celebrated their contributions with an end-of-season recognition evening, and a festive Christmas get together, recognising the dedication that keeps the programme running smoothly.
Volunteers shared why they enjoy being part of the programme
"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." – Eleanor Brennan
"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." – Bert Swinborn
"The supportive, positive and friendly approach by everyone. It is an enriching experience on many levels." – Jenny Thomson
Volunteer training
Thanks to funding from the UK Government through the UKSPF, administered locally by Aberdeen City Council, we welcomed 11 new volunteers and provided WorldHost Principles of Customer Service training, helping them gain the skills to deliver exceptional visitor experiences.
As part of their training and development, volunteers took part in a full-day familiarisation visit, walking a “day in Aberdeen” as a cruise visitor. This gave them valuable first-hand insight into the visitor experience and helped them think about how best to welcome guests in 2026.
Preparing for the first cruise call
Upcoming walking tours in the city centre and Old Aberdeen, alongside two full-day training sessions in March, will connect volunteers with local businesses and prepare everyone for the first cruise call on 31 March.
Committed to the programme
Out with the UKSPF-funded activity we have recruited four new lead volunteers from within the group and implemented a new feedback process for cruise passengers, ensuring recognition and continuous improvement remain at the heart of the programme.
The Commercial team at VisitAberdeenshire has also prepared the 2026 cruise visitor map engaging with local businesses to get them in front of visitors arriving quayside this year.
Highlighting their commitment to the region beyond official activities, the volunteer team also organised a visit to Peterhead Prison Museum to show support for the challenges the attraction is currently facing. This initiative, entirely volunteer-led, demonstrates their dedication to the wider local community and tourism sector.
None of this would be possible without the ongoing support of our 2025–2026 volunteer programme partner, Peterson Logistic Energy Limited. Their ongoing commitment helps ensure our volunteers are equipped, engaged, and ready to provide an outstanding welcome to every visitor.
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