Port of Aberdeen has selected Boskalis Westminster Ltd for a three-year maintenance dredging programme spanning 2026 to 2028, covering annual campaigns across North Harbour and South Harbour.

The scope includes trailing suction hopper dredging and bed levelling to maintain required depths in berths and navigation channels, ensuring safe operations for vessels up to 300 metres in length.

For the 2026 campaign, due to begin this month, Boskalis will deploy the Freeway trailing suction hopper dredger alongside the MTS Valour bed-levelling vessel. All works will be delivered under the licence granted by the Marine Directorate.

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The port's survey team undertakes hydrographic surveys year-round to monitor sediment build-up and safeguard navigation. In the weeks before each campaign, bathymetric surveys at both harbours determine dredge volumes and inform the contractor's programme and cost estimates. During operations, interim progress surveys guide dredging decisions through to safe completion.

John Wilson, Head of Engineering, Port of Aberdeen, said: "The storms earlier this year deposited significant volumes of material into the port, and our survey team has been working hard to assess the impact and prepare for this year's campaign. Boskalis know the port well and we've been working closely with their team to ensure a safe and successful dredge in 2026 and beyond."

Paul M. de Jong, Managing Director, Boskalis Westminster Ltd, added: "We are excited to be back in the Port of Aberdeen having last worked here several years ago. Our collaboration with the Port of Aberdeen has always been excellent and we are looking forward to continuing that cooperation again in the build-up to the 2026 campaign."