Grampian SeaShed - A Community for retired seafarers
Grampian SeaShed - A Community for retired seafarers
Grampian SeaShed - A Community for retired seafarers
What is SeaShed?
Grampian SeaShed is a support group for retired and redundant seafarers in the Aberdeen area.
Founded in 2017 by former Port Chaplain Howard Drysdale, it exists to tackle loneliness, share stories, and build friendship after a life at sea.
What began with 7 members has grown into a thriving group with bi-weekly meetings on Fridays, outings, and a strong sense of community.
Our bi-weekly gatherings include food and conversation. A place to belong and feel seen. Open to anyone who served at sea, Merchant Navy, Royal Navy or Fishermen!
What We Do
How We Support Our Members
We gather for tea/coffee, scones, and lunch.
There’s always good conversation, shared stories, and a few laughs.
We often do a quiz when we meet!
It’s a space where retired seafarers feel heard, valued, and at home.
Bi-weekly Meet-Ups
Group Outings
We organise six outings a year to places like lighthouses, museums, and coastal sites.
These trips bring connection, adventure, and a real sense of purpose.
For many members, they’re a highlight of the year.
Ongoing Care
When life gets tough, we stay present.
Whether it's a hospital visit or a phone call to check in, we show up.
SeaShed isn’t just a group — it’s support, friendship, and care for life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about Grampian Sea Shed and our marketing services.
Who can join SeaShed?
If you are a retired seafarer - Merchant Navy, Royal Navy or Fisherman, you are welcome to join our group
SeaShed is open to retired or redundant seafarers looking for connection, companionship, and a place to share stories from their time at sea. If you’ve spent time working at sea and are based in or around Aberdeen, you’re more than welcome to join us.
What happens at a typical SeaShed meeting?
We meet at 09:46 and enjoy unlimited tea/coffe and a scone. There is plenty of good banter, sometimes a quiz and a cooked lunch.
We gather from 09:30, with tea, coffee, scones, and a good chat starting at 10:00. There’s usually conversation around seafaring, general wellbeing, maybe a quiz or two, and we wrap up with a light lunch around midday. It’s informal, friendly, and always supportive.
How much does it cost to attend?
Each session costs £15, but we already have sponsorship covering £5 per person — so members currently pay just £10 per meeting, which includes refreshments and a lunch.
What if I can’t make it to meetings in person?
That is okay! We all have times when w ecannot make meetings - looking after grandkids; hospital/dental/doctors appointments etc. Just let us know via the contact page or our WHatsApp group.
We provide iPads and training for members who may be housebound or unable to travel. This helps them join virtual meetings or stay connected with other members even during poor weather or periods of ill health.
What kind of outings does SeaShed organise?
We arrange outings at the suggestions of our members to a variety of places and events. See past blog posts for more details.
We plan around six group outings a year, usually between May and September when the weather’s kinder. Past trips have included the Fraserburgh Lighthouse Museum, HMS Unicorn, Peterhead Prison, and even the Jute Factory Museum in Dundee. It’s all about exploring together and keeping the spirit of adventure alive.
Is SeaShed a charity?
No — but SeaShed joined the Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations (ACVO) in 2022 and funds are used soley to help us grow and support more retired seafarers in need of community and connection.
Blog
Keep up to date with recent events and gatherings
Grampian SeaShed Moves to New Greentrees, Dyce
Community, Aberdeen, Grampian SeaShed
Grampian SeaShed Is Moving
Grampian SeaShed is preparing for an exciting new chapter, with a move to The New Greentrees, 183 Victoria Street, Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 7AA.
After 5 years at King's, the move is hoped will bring a fresh impetus to the group. Whilst it will maintain a similar format, the big change is the inclusion of a hot meal, with a choice of 5 items from their "Pensioners Menu."
The new address on Victoria Street means the SeaShed will be easy to find and simpler to reach for people coming from across the city and the wider region. Whether you are a regular participant or visiting for the first time, the location is designed to feel welcoming, visible, and convenient.
While full details of the internal layout and facilities will be shared directly by Grampian SeaShed, the move to The New Greentrees offers the potential for brighter spaces, better accessibility and good food - food being a key component of our meetings!
Our first meeting at the New Greentrees is on the 14th of August at 0945. Then fortnightly thereafter.
Access is by car or bus number 18 and 35, both stop outside the New Greentrees and Dyce Railway Station is less than a 10 minute walk. (Lifts are available for those unable to walk or inclement weather!)
If you are a retired/ex Merchant Navy/Royal Navy/Fisherman, please do join us as we begin this new chapter for Grampian SeaShed.
Planning Your Visit to our New Address:
Getting There by Bus: Route 18
One of the easiest ways to reach The New Greentrees is by using bus route 18, operated by First Aberdeen (First Bus, 2026 timetable) . Route 18, including its 18A and 18B variants, links Dyce with the city centre and on to Redmoss and Charleston, making it ideal for people travelling from central Aberdeen or along the A947 corridor.
On weekdays, buses typically run around every 20 minutes.
Getting There by Bus: Route 35
For those travelling from further afield, bus route 35, operated by Stagecoach Bluebird, is another excellent option. Route 35 runs between Aberdeen (Union Square) and Elgin, passing through Dyce, Oldmeldrum, Buckie, Macduff, Banff and Cullen. This makes the SeaShed’s new Dyce base accessible not only to city residents but also to people coming from towns across the north-east.
On weekdays the service can be as frequent as every 30 minutes. If you live north of Aberdeen or along the route, this can be a convenient and sustainable way to visit the new SeaShed location.
There is a large car park on site with easy access from the bypass (A90) and around Aberdeen.
PARTNERS
