Lerwick Port Authority is supporting a new event next month aimed at helping local businesses and community groups explore opportunities linked to cruise tourism in Shetland.
Taking place at Mareel, Cruise Forward – Maximising Shetland’s Potential will bring together industry experts, partners and local stakeholders to explore how Shetland can continue to benefit from a growing and evolving cruise market.
As a partner in the event, Lerwick Port Authority has played a key role in shaping the programme and securing an experienced line-up of speakers to share insight into cruise trends, visitor expectations and practical opportunities for local enterprise.
The day-long event will explore the current cruise market context, including expedition cruising, future tourism trends and ways to strengthen Shetland’s visitor offer. International and local case studies will highlight how communities have collaborated to develop market-ready experiences that deliver benefits for local economies.
Guest speakers include Saskia Vrolyk, Expedition Voyage Planner with HX Expeditions; Aneta Meszka, Head of Operations at Excursions Ltd; Jens Skrede, Managing Director of Cruise Europe. A panel session and networking opportunities throughout the day will allow attendees to ask questions and share ideas. Melanie Henderson, the Authority’s Cruise & Marketing Manager and Chair of Cruise Scotland, will also be speaking at the event.
The event takes place on Thursday 12 March 2026, from 9.30am to 3.30pm, and is free to attend, with lunch provided. Advance registration is required, please visit: Cruise Forward - Maximising Shetland's Potential
The event is delivered in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise, VisitScotland and Business Gateway Shetland and Shetland Islands Council.
Lerwick Port Authority will continue to support initiatives that help local businesses and communities benefit from cruise tourism and strengthen the link between the port, the town centre and the wider visitor economy.
