The Port of Cromarty Firth, Invergordon has welcomed more passengers from cruise ships in 2016 than any other port in Scotland, according to a press release. 

A total of 97,993 passengers visited the port this year, the highest number ever, and 9 percent higher than 2015.

There was also the 1000th call at the port from a cruise ship, when the Koningsdam arrived. In addition were two calls from Disney Cruise Line and the Disney Magic. 

2016 also brought the announcement of a proposed £25m investment in the development of a new berth specifically designed to accommodate the needs of tourists and the larger ships coming into Invergordon. 

Captain Dunderdale, Cruise Development Manager, Cruise Highlands Ltd, said: “Being the port with the highest number of passengers in Scotland in 2016 is a fabulous achievement and rounds off a remarkable year. We were able to welcome nearly 19% of Scotland’s 528,114 passengers this year. Worldwide, the cruise sector is the fastest growing area of travel and, for the tourist industry in the Highlands to continue to thrive, it is essential that ports like Invergordon are ready to welcome them. We are working with tour operators and tourist destinations to ensure that visitors to the Highlands have the best possible experience.”

Bob Buskie, Chief Executive of the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “As a deepwater port that is in close proximity to many of the Highlands’ most beautiful and historical locations, the Port of Cromarty Firth is the ideal location to grow and develop cruise tourism in Scotland.

“There are 73 new cruise liners currently being built throughout the world, many of which will accommodate more than 5000 passengers. The Port of Cromarty Firth is one of only three ports in Scotland that can accommodate ships of this size and, with more of them being built, it is essential for us to be able to receive them. Our investment and development plans will allow the Port to continue to introduce more people to the beauty and history of the Highlands.”