RSN GOLD - GALLERY

:: RSN GOLD
GALLERY 2

A PICTORIAL TRIP AROUND THE BEAUTIFUL NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND

Aberdeen Harbour - the oil capital of Europe.

For many years now, Aberdeen has been the nerve centre for all North Sea oil operations, and is a major tendering hub for the North Sea oil rigs.

There is a constant flow of supply boats entering and leaving the harbour, day and night, every day of the year. A favourite pastime for many is to sit up on Torry Point with the binoculars, watching the pilot cutter going out to meet the many vessels and bring them safely into port, sometimes battling very heavy seas in the north east swell.

The original harbourmaster's office (right), situated near the harbour entrance. This has now been replaced by a brand new state-of-the-art purpose-built building adjacent to it, but it remains as a historical landmark.

Some of the original fishermen's cottages down beside the harbour (left). These are all lovingly restored and well cared for. and make a beautiful and peaceful place to live amongst all the hustle and bustle of a modern working harbour.

Union Street, Aberdeen (right). This is the main shopping street in the city with all of the major High Street names, and a fair sprinkling of local ones too, interspersed with some fine hotels and restaurants. The street is only a short walk from the Esplanade with all the attractions and amusements you could wish for, so you have the best of both worlds at your fingertips.

Cruden Bay (left) viewed from Port Erroll, the local village and harbour. The beach stretches for miles, and has some of the finest sand to be found anywhere in Europe.

Collieston (right), a typical north-east village, clings to the cliffs as the North Sea batters the coastline relentlessly. The little harbour is the only refuge from the swell.

Two views of Pennan. This forgotten sleepy little village nestles at the foot of high cliffs, and can only be reached by a torturous road with hairpin bends. It was the location for the film "Local Hero".

Buckie, (left) and one of the busiest working harbours on the north east coast. This is a fully-equipped charter survey boat.

Burghead (right). Not so much a working harbour now, but a picturesque spot and a favourite base for pleasure craft. The wide windy bay is used by many wind surfers.

Lossiemouth.
On the left, sunrise over the sand dunes and the River Lossie. Right - Lossiemouth harbour