Early starts and warm smiles – Meet the unsung heroes behind Invergordon’s world-class cruise welcome
As cruise ships arrive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, so too do the smiling faces of the Invergordon Tourism Alliance volunteers.
This invaluable team gives their time, warmth and expertise to helping thousands of cruise passengers experience the very best of the Highlands.
For many visitors, these volunteers are the first friendly faces they see in Scotland.
With warmth, humour and encyclopaedic local knowledge, the dedicated group have quietly become a force for Highland tourism – and proud ambassadors for Invergordon.
For nearly two decades, they have met ships at the dock, often as early as 7am and in all weather, to offer guidance and insight to visitors from across the globe.
Among them are Bernard and Eileen Doyle, who recently retired from the team after 17 years of service.
The pair were among the very first to sign up when the cruise welcome programme was little more than a gazebo on the dock.
“We’ve loved every minute,” said Eileen, 75. “People return year after year and remember us – it’s been a joy.”
Bernard, who will turn 80 later this year, added: “When someone comes back after a day out and says thank you for your advice, that’s the satisfaction.”
Fittingly, the Doyles will mark their retirement from the service by going off on a cruise holiday of their own.
With their departure, the hope is that new volunteers will step forward to join the three remaining members of the team.
Among them is Rosie MacCulloch, 73, who has also been volunteering for 17 years.
She said: “I just love talking to people and helping them get the most out of their time here.”
George Carson, 72, has also been volunteering from the very beginning.
“Why do we do it? It keeps us out of the nursing home,” he laughed. “We’ve met authors, pop stars – even a CIA agent.
“But it’s the friendships we’ve built with each other and the gratitude from visitors that keeps us coming back.”
Newer volunteer Angie Bowers, 72, a former special needs educator who previously worked in security at the Port, has also brought a fresh perspective.
She said: “I’ve loved getting involved – it gets you out and about, keeps you active and I’m proud to help showcase this beautiful part of the world.”
To thank them for their dedication, the volunteers were recently invited aboard the Regal Princess for a celebratory lunch by the Port of Cromarty Firth.
Joanne Allday, Head of Strategy and Business Development at the Port of Cromarty Firth, paid tribute to the group: “These volunteers are the heartbeat of Invergordon’s cruise welcome.
“We cannot them thank them enough for the incredible service they give, and the impact they make on every visitor who steps ashore.”
As Bernard and Eileen hang up their jackets at the end of this season, the Port of Cromarty Firth hopes more locals will be inspired to step forward and continue the tradition of welcome that has become synonymous with Invergordon.
