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
SeaShed gets Creative?
A Creative Outing for our SeaShed members at...
Yes, the SeaShed were out and about again last Friday 14th November and this time we didn't have too far to travel! We headed just north of Aberdeen to the village of Potterton where we visited Pumpkin Spice Craft Cafe.
What a fun time we had... 8 crew made the trip and it was well worth the effort on a cold Friday morning.
Our visit started with tee/coffee and either 2 sausages in a roll or scone with butter, jam and clotted cream! I'm not sure that either of them were particularly healthy, but they certainly were lovely!
Then we got down to choosing our pottery - there are various items available - some chose a seahorse money box others decorated plates and I did a Santa to give to my son who has additional support needs and loves all things Christmas!
Here are a few pictures of our group at "work!"
Yes a very enjoyable outing - so far!
As regular readers of this blog will know, we rarely have an outing that doesn't involve food! So after our morning endeavours, we headed next door to the Indian Restaurant, Shish-In-Stead!
What a feast we had! The portions were very generous and quality was exceptional... I highly recommend the peshwari naan bread - it was the best naan bread I have ever had!!
Here are a few more pictures...
So a fun day out found us refreshed, invigorated, and well fed with a unique piece of potter to treasure! Our Wellbeing was well and truly given a boost!
We have another outing on Wednesday to Stonehaven for a game of Pétanque... then in December we have our Christmas lunch to look forward to...
Are you a retired seafarer?
Our group of retired seafarers are a mix of all ranks and those shore-based seafarers - a friendly bunch and we enjoy our bi-weekly meetings on Fridays at King's Church in Aberdeen.
Why not come and join us and enjoy some sea-stories the odd quiz and yes, good food with unlimited coffee/tea!
There is a small charge and we have to order the food in advance so it is probably best to get in touch with us first using the contact page - click on this link to ontact us here!
We look forward to welcoming you soon!
PARTNERS
