Viking Libra Opens Scotland’s 2027 Cruise Season in January

Capital Cruising is closing its 2026 Scottish season after welcoming 155 vessels and more than 238,000 passengers to the Forth and Tay. AIDAsol is scheduled to make the final call this month at the deep-water anchorage at Newhaven.

The Forth Ports cruise business expects further growth in 2027, with Dundee attracting increasing interest from cruise lines. This year’s Scottish programme included 13 inaugural calls across its ports and anchorages.

“Scotland continues to be an attractive draw for cruise lines who call into our ports and anchorages each year, and more importantly, book to return,” said Craig Torrance, Asset Manager for Capital Cruising.

AIDA Cruises vessels made seven calls during 2026, with six already booked for next year. Torrance said cruise visits generate economic benefits and employment locally and nationally, bringing passengers to attractions and major events beyond Edinburgh.

The Scottish operation covers Leith, Rosyth and Dundee, alongside the deep-water anchorages at Newhaven and South Queensferry. Its cruise calendar traditionally extends from April through October.

Dundee growth and a busy July expected

Capital Cruising expects July 2027 to be particularly busy, with The Open golf championship in St Andrews adding to the summer cruise schedule.

Dundee typically receives up to about 15 cruise ships and as many as 15,000 passengers per season. Ships mainly use King George V Wharf within the commercial port on the River Tay, generally berthing alongside rather than requiring tender transfers.

A small terminal or marquee supports passenger check-in, embarkation and disembarkation. Although the port is close to central Dundee, including the V&A Dundee and RRS Discovery, access through working dock areas is restricted. Passenger transfers can involve an arranged shuttle or taxi, or an approved walking route, depending on the berth and security arrangements.

London calls continue beyond the Scottish season

Capital Cruising’s London operation serves 15 cruise lines throughout the year. Of the 101 calls scheduled for 2026, 15 remain as the Scottish programme draws to a close.

The London business includes Tilbury’s Grade II-listed terminal, Britain’s oldest surviving passenger terminal built specifically for that purpose, together with moorings at Greenwich and Tower Bridge. The moorings provide access to central London.

Scotland’s next season will begin earlier than the customary spring opening, with Viking Libra due at Rosyth in January 2027. The ship will arrive after embarking guests at Capital Cruising’s Greenwich facility in London.

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