Cromarty Museum launches outdoor gallery project with support from the Port of Cromarty Firth

in

Cromarty Museum has announced new support from the Port of Cromarty Firth (POCF) Community Sponsorship Programme to help deliver their outdoor gallery exhibition, creating a new exhibition space celebrating the town’s nationally significant built and maritime heritage.

The project will transform the under utilised front garden of the museum into a mini destination within Church Street, providing visitors with an engaging heritage experience even when the museum building is closed. The outdoor gallery will feature interpretation panels highlighting six Cromarty heritage sites and stories, alongside commissioned artwork from a local artist inspired by the town’s maritime history.

Funding from the Port of Cromarty Firth will contribute towards research and curatorial work, the design and production of outdoor interpretation boards, commissioned artwork, seating, visitor monitoring equipment, and exhibition installation materials.

The outdoor exhibition has been designed to encourage more visitors to explore Cromarty’s heritage while supporting the wider local tourism economy. By creating a flexible visitor attraction accessible throughout the day, the museum hopes to strengthen links between local heritage sites, cafés, businesses, and visitor experiences across the Cromarty Firth area.

As part of the project, Cromarty Museum will install a people counter to better understand visitor numbers and measure the economic impact of the museum on the local area. The museum will also work with partners including the Friends of Cromarty Harbour and the University of Aberdeen during the research process.

The project aims to preserve and share the stories that matter most to local people, while creating a new welcoming public space where visitors and residents can engage with Cromarty’s built and maritime history.

Freya Samuel, Digital Curator at Cromarty Museum, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Port of Cromarty Firth for helping us fund the outdoor gallery. As we are currently navigating a capital redevelopment process, this outdoor interpretation will be vital to keep visitors to the town engaged with our extraordinary heritage during our potential closure, as well as throughout the off season.

“The outdoor gallery will be themed around key built and maritime heritage in the Cromarty townscape as part of our interpretation strategy to take the museum beyond the walls. Visitors will be encouraged to visit several exciting sites throughout the town that do not receive interpretation elsewhere in Cromarty. This will form a key part of our offering of self-guided tours of the town, alongside our existing ‘Built on Slavery’ walking tour and our ‘Fisherfolk of Cromarty’ walking tour, which is coming soon.”

Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “We are pleased to support Cromarty Museum’s outdoor gallery exhibiton through our community sponsorship programme. The project will help celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of the Cromarty Firth area while creating a valuable new visitor experience for the community and tourists alike.”

The museum will share updates on the development of the outdoor gallery as work progresses.

The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.

Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.

Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:

  • Skills development, employability or job creation,
  • Vessel crew or passenger support,
  • Environmental protection or enhancement,
  • Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.

    Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk.

Port of Cromarty Firth Continues Support for Blooming Gardeners with £2,500 Donation

in

The Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) has reaffirmed its long standing support for the Blooming Gardeners project with a donation of £2,500 through its Community Sponsorship Programme.

The Port has supported Blooming Gardeners for a number of years, recognising the positive impact the project has on both participants and the wider community. This year’s funding will help the group purchase essential materials including soil, compost, plants and flowers, enabling them to continue creating vibrant displays throughout the area.

As part of the ongoing partnership, Blooming Gardeners will also provide colourful planters that will offer cruise passengers a warm welcome on their walking route between the ship and the West Harbour. They are also providing plants for the planters at the front of the Port’s offices.

Blooming Gardeners has been operating for more than 6 years and provides valuable opportunities for vulnerable adults to develop practical horticultural skills, build confidence and reduce social isolation in a supportive environment. The project also plays an important role in enhancing local communities through its planting and beautification work.

Fiona Sim, (Chair) of Blooming Gardeners, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Port of Cromarty Firth for its continued support over many years. This funding allows us to continue providing meaningful opportunities for our gardeners while helping to brighten our communities with colourful floral displays.

“We are particularly pleased that our planters will be displayed at the Port, where they can be enjoyed by the many visitors who come to the area each year. We look forward to continuing our positive relationship with the Port.”

Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “Blooming Gardeners is a fantastic project that delivers real benefits for participants, their families and the wider community. We have been proud to support the group for many years and are delighted to provide further funding to help them continue their valuable work.

“The beautiful planters produced by the gardeners make a real difference to local environments, and we are pleased to be able to showcase their work at the Port, helping create a vibrant welcome for staff, port users and visitors.”

The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.

Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.

Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:
Skills development, employability or job creation,
Vessel crew or passenger support,
Environmental protection or enhancement,
Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.

Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk.

Port of Cromarty Firth supports Well-Safe Solutions rigs as they return to work

in

A specialist offshore rig has left Invergordon after being prepared for its next campaign at the Port of Cromarty Firth.

The Well-Safe Defender departed on 11th June, following a period of mobilisation work supported by the port’s facilities and the local supply chain.

Its departure follows that of sister rig the Well-Safe Guardian, which recently left the Cromarty Firth for a 360-day multi-well campaign at a client’s field 150 miles north-east of Aberdeen.

Together, the departures highlight the continuing role of the Cromarty Firth in supporting Scotland’s offshore energy sector, including decommissioning work in the North Sea.

Well-Safe Solutions, which is based in Aberdeen, has used the Port of Cromarty Firth as a base for both rigs ahead of their return to work.

During their time in Invergordon, the rigs have created opportunities for local and regional businesses.

Well-Safe Solutions delivers a fully integrated, Tier 1 well life cycle service, supporting activities from front-end engineering and design through to drilling, intervention, and decommissioning, including plug and abandonment operations.

The company works in collaboration with operators to safely, efficiently, and responsibly meet their well obligations, supporting the energy transition and the management of late-life assets in the North Sea and beyond.

The Port of Cromarty Firth has a long-established track record in supporting oil and gas, offshore renewables and energy transition activity, with deep-water facilities, laydown space and access to experienced local contractors.

Joanne Allday, Head of Strategy and Business Development at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “It is excellent to see the Well-Safe Defender leave the Cromarty Firth for its next campaign, following the recent departure of the Well-Safe Guardian.

“These projects show the important role the Port and experienced local engineering businesses continue to play in supporting complex mobilisation work of this kind.

“When rigs like the Well-Safe Defender and the Well-Safe Guardian are in the Cromarty Firth, they create opportunities for local companies and help sustain the jobs, skills and facilities that are vital to Scotland’s energy sector.”

Louis Middleton, Well-Safe Solutions Rig Manager, said: “During our interim sheltered water stay in the Cromarty Firth, both of the Well-Safe semisubmersibles were able to undertake a wide range of significant scopes. These included the completion of a 5-yearly Special Periodic Survey, alongside extensive maintenance activities and a number of upgrade scopes aimed at enhancing operational capability and reliability.

“This phase provided an opportunity to ensure that both units are well-positioned for future operations. All activities were carried out efficiently and safely, with consistent support and cooperation from the Port Authority throughout the duration of the stay.”

Port of Cromarty Firth Supports Inchindown Heritage Project with £2,500 Donation

in

The Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) has announced a donation of £2,500 to the Invergordon Development Trust (IDT) to support the next phase of the Inchindown project, helping to preserve and share one of the area’s most remarkable historic sites.

The Inchindown oil tanks, located beneath the hills to the north of Invergordon, are of significant historical importance. Constructed during World War II, the vast underground tanks were used to store fuel for military ships docking at the town’s port. Hidden from view for protection, the oil was transported through a network of pipes directly to the harbour, playing a vital role in wartime operations.

The Port previously supported Phase 1 of the project, which focused on digitally mapping the interior of the tanks and creating a virtual reality (VR) walkthrough. This innovative approach has allowed the unique scale and structure of the tanks to be experienced by a much wider audience, despite their inaccessible location.

The newly awarded funding supported Phase 2 of the project, which delivered enhancements to the virtual experience including a voiceover tour with subtitles, the addition of photographs, and improved overall programme performance.

IDT also collaborated with researchers at UHI Moray to develop Phases 1 and 2 of the pioneering VR project.

The latest version of the VR experience was demonstrated at the community open day hosted by the rugby club on 30 May, where members of the public were able to try it for themselves.

Following completion, the plan is for Invergordon Museum to host the VR setup, after which it will be launched for user testing to help identify further improvements.

Looking ahead, the long-term ambition is to make the experience accessible online, as well as through a VR installation within the Invergordon Museum. The Invergordon Development Trust also intends to explore opportunities to monetise the experience through a pay per view model, either digitally or via a physical installation. Any revenue generated will be reinvested into the local community, supporting future development projects.

Donna Smith, Chair of Invergordon Development Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Port of Cromarty Firth for their continued support. The Inchindown tanks are a fascinating part of our local heritage, and this funding allows us to build on the success of the initial digital mapping project and create a more engaging and educational experience for visitors.”

Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “We’re proud to support the Inchindown project and help preserve an important piece of the area’s wartime history. By investing in digital solutions, this project ensures that the story of the tanks can be shared with a wide audience while delivering lasting benefits for the local community.”

The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.

Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.

Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:

  • Skills development, employability or job creation,
  • Vessel crew or passenger support,
  • Environmental protection or enhancement,
  • Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.

Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk.

Port of Cromarty Firth goes quackers with UK-first duck trail for cruise visitors

in

A Highland town is ruffling a few feathers after launching a trail inspired by a quirky cruise passenger trend.

The Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) has launched a brand-new Duck Trail through Invergordon town centre, turning a popular cruise ship craze into what is a UK-first on dry land.

In a move designed to tempt cruise passengers off the ship and into local shops, cafés and attractions, the Port is taking the international cruise duck trend, where passengers hide, swap and photograph rubber ducks onboard, and bringing it ashore.

Colourful duck decals are now on display in shop windows along Invergordon High Street as part of the new trail created with Invergordon Museum and Invergordon Off The Wall, giving people a fun route to follow as they explore the town.

This is not only a fun activity for cruise passengers, it’s also something that families visiting or local to the area can take part in.

Louise Munro, Cruise Development Co-ordinator at the Port, said: “Cruise ducks have become a bit of a phenomenon at sea, so bringing them ashore felt like the perfect way to add a little extra fun in Invergordon. If it gets people smiling, taking photos and discovering somewhere new, that’s a win for everyone, especially our local businesses and community.”

And there’s a twist: each business has its own duck decal, meaning every stop on the trail will have its own personality, from tartan touches to quirky local flair.

Every duck decal features a QR code linking visitors directly to a digital page showing what each business offers and why it’s worth waddling inside.

Among the businesses signed up are Blythswood Care, Bonnie Bhaji, Co-op Food Invergordon, Tanstar Gifts, McRaes of Scotland and several more local favourites.

Alongside the High Street trail, a giant hero duck installation will become a central selfie stop for cruise visitors in year two, after local primary school pupils have the chance to get involved by helping design the duck.

Visitors will also be able to buy branded souvenir ducks, made from a wheat and PVC composite, with around £1 from every duck sold going directly into the Port’s community fund, making every duck purchase a small boost for Invergordon itself.

The ducks are available from three locations just now: Tanstar Gifts, the Invergordon Gallery and the Co-op supermarket, all on the town’s High Street.

The Duck Trail is part of wider cruise season planning by the Port, aimed at helping local businesses make the most of significant visitor numbers while creating a fun activity that can be enjoyed by local families, cruise passengers and other tourists.

Port of Cromarty Firth Supports Major Redevelopment of Invergordon Museum

in

The Port of Cromarty Firth (POCF) has announced significant multi year support for the future development and relocation of Invergordon Museum, contributing £8,000 in 2025 with a further £12,000 committed for 2026 as part of a three year, match funded regeneration project.

This investment will support the appointment of a Project Development Officer, a crucial role in delivering the relocation of the Invergordon Naval Museum and Heritage Centre to a new, larger facility within the town. The project has already secured funding from additional sources, allowing plans to move forward and ensuring a strong, collaborative approach to regeneration.

Since opening in 2004, the museum has grown through the dedication of local volunteers, expanding its collections, exhibitions, talks, and partnerships. However, its current home at Hayes Hall, a former British Legion dance hall, has limitations, including high running costs, limited space, and low visibility away from the High Street.

Relocating the museum will allow for the creation of a modern exhibition space capable of securely housing the historically significant Bouchardon bust, alongside enhanced displays and future attractions such as virtual reality tours of the Inchindown oil storage tunnels. These developments aim to strengthen Invergordon’s visitor offering and position the museum as a key cultural destination.

As part of the project, Hayes Hall will be repurposed into a Community Hub, providing flexible space for local groups and organisations. Income generated through rent will offer a new, sustainable revenue stream for the museum, while planned admission fees to view the Bouchardon bust will contribute directly to the Invergordon Common Good Fund.

With support from the Port of Cromarty Firth Community Fund, the museum has appointed Jacky Roberts as Museum and Community Development Officer. A long standing volunteer since 2005 with local experience, Jacky will lead the relocation project and work closely with community groups to ensure the new Community Hub develops into a thriving shared space.

Wendy Clark, Museum Trustee since 2003, said: “I am incredibly grateful to the Port of Cromarty Firth for their very generous donation. It not only secures a better future for our museum but, crucially, allows us to create a dedicated Community Hub in the Hayes Hall. This is a vital step forward in supporting and connecting all the wonderful groups within our community

Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “We’re proud to support this ambitious project, which will safeguard Invergordon’s heritage while creating new opportunities for community collaboration and regeneration. The relocation of the museum and development of a Community Hub will deliver long term benefits for residents, visitors, and local organisations.”

The Port of Cromarty Firth will continue to work with the museum and its partners over the coming years, supporting progress on the relocation and sharing updates as the project develops.

The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.

Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.

Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:

  • Skills development, employability or job creation,
  • Vessel crew or passenger support,
  • Environmental protection or enhancement,
  • Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.

Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk.

Sightings, splashes and speculation as mystery Nessie-like creature spotted in the Cromarty Firth

in

Strange sightings, unexplained noises and a growing number of eyewitness accounts have prompted the Port of Cromarty Firth to look into reports of a mysterious ‘Nessie-like’ creature in local waters.

It began with a series of loud thuds across the site, with experts attributing them to anything from sonic booms caused by passing jets to tectonic plates shifting under the water.

The first reported sighting of the beast – which is already being dubbed “Gordon” by monster hunters – came from a pilot boat crew earlier this week.

Seaman Pete Mitchell said: “We saw a large wake, an unusual wake, on the side of the launch over there somewhere. We were all focused on what the wake was caused by and with that, I saw the head pop up. It gave me a wink, the head went back down and it carried on its way.”

While sightings remain unconfirmed, attention intensified after a very large brown mound of possible physical evidence was discovered during routine cleaning work on site.

Iona Bigboat, Port Cleaning Services, said: “We were just carrying out some normal cleaning operations along the site here, you know, litter picking, things of that nature, and then we came across this. We thought at first it might just have been a big seagull, but now that seems unlikely.”

News of the possible discovery has already travelled far, with monster hunters and curious onlookers turning their attention to Invergordon in the hope of catching a glimpse for themselves.

Local character Luke Atthisguy said: “It was huge, it was a big dark shape under the water. I couldn’t tell if it was one big one or two small ones or something, the way it moved. It was the size of an aeroplane.”

The Port’s PR and marketing team moved quickly to assess the wider implications of such a discovery, including what it could mean for local tourism, branding and merchandise opportunities.

Managers have even consulted experts in marine ecology to ensure they were appropriately considering the beast’s welfare.

Brainiac Dr Dempsey said: “What we can advise at this point is that the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code should be followed by the port and by tourists for their own safety and for the animal’s safety.

“We have taken eDNA samples of the water and set up baited camera traps to learn more about the creature. We think that a Harry Gow’s dream ring will be irresistible to it.”

For now, port traffic continues cautiously as the Cromarty Firth’s newest resident settles into the area. 

Officials are stressing that there is no cause for alarm, unless you happen to be an unattended dream ring.

Port of Cromarty Firth Funds New Boat Trailer for Alness and Invergordon Rowing Club

in

The Port of Cromarty Firth (POCF) has announced funding of £1,839 for the Alness and Invergordon Rowing Club (AIR), supporting the club’s efforts to grow coastal rowing participation across the Cromarty Firth.

This funding will enable the club to purchase a road trailer for Averon, its newly built St Ayles Skiff. The trailer will allow the community to take the skiff to new areas of the Firth, attend regattas, and introduce more local people to the physical, social, and mental health benefits of coastal rowing. The support reflects the Port’s commitment to investing in community wellbeing and encouraging engagement with the region’s maritime heritage.

Averon, which was hand-built over 18 months by a group of local volunteers using everyday DIY tools, was launched in September this year after the donation of a skiff kit by Invergordon resident, John Henderson. The project was made possible thanks to Alness businessman David Skea, who provided workshop space, and the boat was welcomed into the water with support from neighbouring rowing clubs in Portmahomack, Cromarty, and Strathpeffer.

Since its launch, Averon, painted in the Port’s light blue, dark blue and white colours, has been based at Invergordon Boating Club. The skiff has already begun attracting new members keen to explore the Firth.

The new road trailer will allow the club to expand its activities significantly. This includes attending friendly regattas, continuing a long-standing St Ayles Skiff tradition dating back to friendly competitions between Fife mining communities, as well as taking Averon to community events such as the Invergordon RNLI Open Day.

Sylva Rybanska, Chairperson of the Alness and Invergordon Rowing Club, said: “We’re extremely grateful to the Port Authority for supporting us. The new road trailer will allow us to reach more people, introduce them to rowing, and showcase the amazing wildlife and history of the Cromarty Firth from a completely different viewpoint.”

Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “We’re delighted to support the Alness and Invergordon Rowing Club as it builds on the success of its new community built skiff. Coastal rowing is a fantastic way for people of all ages to connect with the water, stay active, and enjoy the unique environment of the Cromarty Firth. We’re proud to play a part in helping the club grow.”

The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.

Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.

Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:

  • Skills development, employability or job creation,
  • Vessel crew or passenger support,
  • Environmental protection or enhancement,
  • Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.

Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk.

Port of Cromarty Firth welcomes first cruise ship of 2026

in

The Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) will welcome its first cruise ship visit of the year on Monday 6 April, as Invergordon once again becomes the gateway to the Scottish Highlands for thousands of tourists from around the world.

The AIDAmar, which can accommodate over 2,600 passengers and around 600 crew, is due to arrive at the Easter Ross port’s cruise berth at 9am, before departing later in the day.

Operated by AIDA Cruises, the vessel will be the first of several visits to Invergordon during this year’s cruise season.

A total of 95 cruise ship calls are scheduled at the Port during 2026, bringing an estimated two hundred thousand visitors to the Highlands and providing a significant boost to the local economy. The season is due to draw to a close on October 14, with the AIDAsol, also operated by AIDA Cruises and capable of accommodating over 2,600 passengers and 600 crew.

While some visitors travel on organised excursions to destinations such as Inverness and Loch Ness, the majority of ships tours are half-day and the Port keenly encourages passengers to spend time exploring Invergordon during the rest of their day.

To support this, the Port has introduced a new printed visitor map which will be handed to cruise passengers as they disembark. The map highlights the town’s independent shops, cafés and attractions, all within easy walking distance of the Port, helping visitors discover more of what Invergordon has to offer.

Among the places featured are the town’s vibrant mural trail, the community run Invergordon Museum and a range of locally owned businesses along the High Street. Independent tour operators and taxi companies will also hand the maps out to passengers.

The Port has also invested in an LED advertising screen at the quayside. These screens promote local facilities and businesses to cruise passengers, helping them to find things to do in the area. Each year, the Port offers severaladvertising slots free of charge to shops in Invergordon, as a further way to help the town’s small businesses.

Ahead of the new season, the Port has also been working with local organisations and businesses to help them make the most of cruise tourism. In March, PoCF hosted a dedicated workshop in Invergordon to give local businesses insight into how the cruise sector operates and how they can attract visiting passengers.

The session covered topics including cruise visitor trends, the structure of the cruise industry and practical tips on increasing visibility through marketing and social media, helping businesses prepare ahead of the first ship’s arrival.

Louise Munro, Cruise Development Co-ordinator at PoCF, said: “We’re delighted to welcome our first cruise ship of the 2026 season and begin another exciting year for the Port and the wider Highland region.

“Cruise tourism brings visitors from across the world to experience the history, scenery and hospitality of the Highlands. By working closely with local businesses and partners, including through initiatives such as our recent cruise workshop, we want to ensure communities across the area continue to benefit from the opportunities the sector provides.”

The industry supports jobs and business opportunities throughout the region, with up to 100 people involved on the Port side alone during a typical visit, including security officers, mooring crews, tour guides and coach drivers.

Port of Cromarty Firth Funds Year Round Youth Work at Cromarty Youth Cafe

in

The Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) has announced funding of £5,000 for Cromarty Youth Cafe, supporting the organisation’s mission to provide high quality, year round youth work and a wide range of opportunities for young people across the Cromarty area.

This funding will help sustain the cafe’s dedicated youth work staff team, enabling them to deliver a full annual programme of activities, achievement opportunities, and vital food provision. The support reflects the Port’s ongoing commitment to community wellbeing and to helping local young people thrive.

Cromarty Youth Cafe offers an extensive programme designed to build skills, confidence, and belonging. This includes accredited achievement courses, such as Food Hygiene, Child Protection, and First Aid, as well as volunteering and leadership recognition, beach cleans and environmental projects, rowing sessions with CCRC, and a variety of community events. Every activity includes free access to food and health & wellbeing bags, helping to ensure that all young people can take part without barriers.

The organisation also provides targeted support for young people with additional support needs and neurodiverse needs, creating a safe and inclusive space with trusted adults, and opportunities to build friendships and resilience.

Alongside these core supports, the cafe delivers a schedule of activities including football, multi sports, dodgeball, badminton, tennis, Arts in Nature, seasonal celebrations, inflatable sessions, Eden Court workshops, archery, Cook Well and Bakewell programmes, and support nights with partner agencies.

The funding comes at a special moment for Cromarty Youth Cafe, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary with a major event recognising the achievements and awards earned by local young people over the past two decades.

A spokesperson for Cromarty Youth Cafe said: “We are absolutely delighted and extremely grateful to the Port Authority for this support. The funding will allow us to continue delivering a wide range of activities and vital youth work, ensuring young voices are heard and helping young people gain skills, confidence, and opportunities for the future.”

Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “We’re proud to support Cromarty Youth Cafe as it continues its fantastic work with local young people. Their year round programme offers vital opportunities for learning, wellbeing, and community connection, and we’re delighted to help the organisation grow and build on its 20 year legacy.”

The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.

Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.

Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:

  • Skills development, employability or job creation,
  • Vessel crew or passenger support,
  • Environmental protection or enhancement,
  • Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.

Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk.

Contact Us

Port of Cromarty Firth
Port Office, Shore Road
Invergordon,
IV18 0HD

Tel: 01349 852308
Email: port@pocf.co.uk

Cromarty Weather

Useful Pages

Supply Chain
About Us
Marine Info
Press Enquiries

COVID Info & Guidelines

Useful Documents

Annual Reviews
Cruise Timetable
Regulations & Governance

Schedule of Charges 2025

Privacy Notice

A Strategic National Asset

Connect with us