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
Merry Christmas SeaSheders!
On Friday the 5th of December our SeaShed crew went to the New Greentrees once again, our third year, for our Christmas Lunch!
What a wonderful time we had,
The food was amazing and the company even better! It was a great 3 course meal spread over some 3 hours plus of fun and friendship around a varied menu which went down a treat! I personally went for the shin of beef which was both tender and tasty. I even ate my greens!
Here are some pictures form our time together:
Before the food arrived
Opening their Christmas Gifts...
Our Party hats are on... let's have some more fun!
We even had a some games... (best not to ask!!) 😀
And best of all:
My lovely Shin of Beef!
And the proof of the pudding (actually the main course!) is in the eating:
All gone!
We even had a wonderful poem recital from Senga:
It was a wonderful afternoon together which was enjoyed by all and enhanced the wellbeing of everyone. We all left in high spirits - of one kind or another! 😀
So please, if you are a retired (or out of work) seafarer, do consider joining in on our group - we are a very friendly lot - which meets every other Friday from 09:30 - 13:00.
Our next meeting is Friday the 19th of December, but please do get in touch using the contact form or emailing me direct at [email protected]
If you don't get in touch beforehand, we will not be able to order food for you, although there should be tea/coffee available!
PARTNERS
