Three family events coming to Port of Aberdeen this summer
The world’s largest floating book fair, wildlife watching, and maritime heritage are coming to the port this summer through three events for people of all ages.
Wildlife watching with Greyhope Bay
Port of Aberdeen and Greyhope Bay have launched a joint wildlife watching volunteer initiative on the North Pier this summer. Volunteers are based at the North Pier for six weeks throughout the summer, helping visitors spot Aberdeen's wildlife and learn more about the port's history and the community's relationship with the coast.
- When: North Pier is open daily, 07:00–19:00. Volunteers are available:
- Thursday evenings, 16:00–19:00
- Friday mornings, 09:00–12:00
- Saturdays and Sundays, 11:00–16:00
- Where: North Pier
- Cost: Free, no booking required
Climb aboard Reaper at Festival of the Sea
Visitors can climb aboard Reaper, a 120-year-old Fifie herring drifter and the last surviving First Class sailing lugger of her type, at Telford Dock. Her crew will guide visitors above and below deck, bringing to life a way of working the sea that has long since disappeared.
Reaper's visit forms part of Aberdeen's citywide Festival of the Sea, which runs from 11–26 July 2026 and brings together culture, creativity and community. Residents and visitors can explore more of the festival programme on the Festival of the Sea 2026 website.
- When:
- Thursday 23 July 2026, 13:00–17:00
- Friday 24 and Saturday 25 July 2026, 10:00–17:00
- Where: Telford Jetty, pedestrian access from York Place
- Cost: Free, no booking required, donations welcome
World's largest floating book fair
GBA Ships will bring Logos Hope, the world's largest floating book fair, to Aberdeen for the first time. Aberdonians may remember Logos II's visit 31 years ago, when thousands of people stepped aboard. Logos Hope continues that tradition, sailing to communities worldwide to share knowledge, help and hope.
Visitors can browse over 5,000 book titles at affordable prices, covering a wide range of interests and age groups.
- When: 28 July – 4 August 2026. Monday–Saturday 10:00–22:00; Sunday 13:00–22:00
- Where: Blaikie's Quay
- Cost: Adults (12–64) £1; adults 65+ free; children under 12 free (must be accompanied by an adult; maximum 10 children per adult). Tickets purchased on arrival.
