Marine Information

Port of Aberdeen is a statutory port authority on the River Dee, with a harbour estate of 378 acres and a port jurisdiction of 38.8 square kilometres. Our primary responsibilities relate to the safety of vessels and people, efficient navigation within the port and protection of harbour estate environment and infrastructure.

A policy of continuous modernisation has transformed Port of Aberdeen, allowing it to maintain the high levels of activity that have earned its position as one of the busiest ports in the UK. All of this is achieved while maintaining the highest marine and safety standards.

Vessel Traffic Services

All shipping movements within the Aberdeen VTS area (within a two mile radius of the head of the North Pier) are controlled by Aberdeen VTS. Participation with VTS is mandatory, for further details please see ALRS Vol.6. Aberdeen VTS provide the following services:
Traffic Organisation Services
Information Service
Call: Aberdeen VTS
VHF Frequency Ch 12; 16
Telephone: +44 (0)1224 597000
Email: vts@portofaberdeen.co.uk

Pilotage

Aberdeen is a compulsory pilotage district for vessels of 60 meters and over in length. For vessels with an operational bow thruster, this limit is increased to 75 meters. Vessels requiring a pilot should give at least one hour’s notice to Aberdeen VTS. Pilots normally board vessels in the vicinity of the Fairway Buoy. The pilot vessels are fitted with VHF Radio and have a black hull with white cabin, and the word PILOT displayed on the cabin.

For marine enquiries, please contact our Marine Department

Harbour Master: Alex McIntosh

Deputy Harbour Master: Ewan Rattray