THE city of Aberdeen has a long association with the sea. Its rich nautical heritage is widely celebrated today by a large collection of artefacts displayed in the Maritime Museum; some of these were found embedded in the mud around the harbour area. You will discover many unique tools and objects from the shipbuilding and fishing industry and household commodities such as glassware, shoes, textiles, and toys. These show how the nature of manufacturing in Aberdeenshire has evolved over the years.
The Maritime Trail is designed to give you a greater insight into the heritage of the area by taking you along cobbled footpaths, past harbour walls and the historical port buildings erected many years ago. There are several plaques and monuments along the way celebrating events from the past and present, including the construction of a harbour defence house in 1497 to the building of the North Pier in the 18th and 19th centuries. Aberdeen’s history and heritage form a key part of its industry today and makes it a desirable destination for many tourists wishing to learn more about this city’s culture and heritage.
The sea is still important for Aberdeen’s economy, with Amity Fish Co. a fine example of an important local business still living off the waters. The harbour is also a major attraction for many tourists, whether they enjoy relaxing beside it on the sandy beaches or scuba diving to enjoy the underwater peacefulness of the water. More energetic tourists take to the sea to sample the delights of sailing, paddle boarding, and surfing, to mention a few that are on offer.
If you are planning a visit to Aberdeenshire, here are some of the ways to explore its nautical heritage.
Take a Harbour or Coastal Tour
Climb aboard a Greenhowe Marine Service harbour tour to learn more about the history of Aberdeen Harbour. View local landmarks and points of interest, and then venture out past the entrance walls to spot Bottle Nose Dolphins feeding and playing. You will see all of this while learning more about the port’s history and workings from the crew’s onboard talk.
However, for a more adventurous trip, join a coastal tour boat; here, you will travel further out to sea to cruise around an offshore wind farm, get up close to large oil supply vessels and see Common Seals soaking up the sun on the coastal rocks. If you are lucky, Aberdeen Live suggest maybe a passing Orca or Minky Whale will appear, making the trip even more memorable.
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Take an Ocean Cruise
Being on a boat while enjoying a relaxing holiday surrounded by the sights and sounds of the ocean is a great way to explore more of our beautiful coastlines and ports. Explora Cruises, explain that whilst at sea, you can enjoy luxury accommodations, fine restaurants, and rejuvenating spas that add an element to your break that you simply cannot get on land. You will be able to take in more of the beauty of the Aberdeenshire coastline from the sea and view some of the sights, such as the beacon of light at Rattray Point and some of the amazing sea stacks and huge natural arches in the rocky cliffs, from different perspectives
Find Hotel By the Sea
For that real nautical experience, find a nice comfortable hotel beside the sea in Aberdeenshire. Picture walking out the door to the sound of the waves gently breaking on the shore and the fresh smell of seawater, then feeling that soft North Sea breeze on your face. The pleasure of a truly Scottish welcome and the comforts of home will make your trip even more enjoyable. Awake to a beautiful sunrise and enjoy a Scottish breakfast before setting out to explore the area by following the Aberdeen history trail. You can find the details of this on the Aberdeen city website.
