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
Bi-weekly Meet-Ups
We gather for tea/coffee, scones, fruit, and a light lunch.
There’s always good conversation, shared stories, and a few laughs.
We do a quiz every time we meet too!
It’s a space where retired seafarers feel heard, valued, and at home.
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?
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 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 light lunch.
What if I can’t make it to meetings in person?
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 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 is currently considering the possibility of seeking charitable status 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
Our last meeting of 25
Our last meeting of the year took place on Friday the 19th.
Once again, the Cafe at King's Church supplied excellent food and a warm inviting room to enjoy each other's company.
Our official start time is 10:00 and we should finish at midday, however that is rarely observed. We begin around 09:30 and often are still chatting towards 13:00.
We had a good meeting including a quiz that was a bit different. One of our group brought an item and asked us to identify it and what it was used for. Various suggestions were made from 'a funnel' to a megaphone, however, no correct answers were forthcoming.
Do you have any idea what it is? Answer is at the bottom of this page.
We also discussed possible outings for 2026 and several ideas were proffered and one has already been firmed up. We are returning to Pumpkin Spice Cafe for more pottery painting and food on the 23rd of January.
We enjoyed some fruit (we have to have some healthy options 😂 as well as mince pies and finished off with soup and sandwiches.
We all agreed that it was a great meeting and we closed and wished everyone a happy Christmas - and see you in the New Year!
Why not plan to join us at the first meeting of 2026? It will be on Friday the19th of January at King's Church. Please do get in touch if you plan to come along - we do need to order the food in advance! Please use the contact page to get in touch or click here!
So in closing, may I wish you, along with all retired seafarers and all serving seafarers a very happy Christmas and a blessed New Year.
And finally, the correct answer to the quiz was...
It is a snow scraper for a car! Honestly, that is what it is!
PARTNERS
