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Cruise to Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in belfast.

A Titanic Legacy

A vintage ship propeller and rudder

Travel back in time to the Titanic Quarter. Titanic Belfast is a must-see — it was named the world's leading tourist attraction in 2016. Step aboard Titanic's little sister, the SS Nomadic, or the HMS Caroline. Finish your visit at McHugh's pub, located in one of Belfast's oldest buildings.

Winter(fell) Is Coming

A man walking down the road at the famous dark hedges in Northern Ireland

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? Belfast's Titanic Studios is where the series is filmed. Take a tour to visit filming locations across Northern Ireland — you'll experience Winterfell, Dragonstone and the Wall like never before.

Political Paths

If you're interested in learning more about Belfast's political history, strike out on Irish Tour Ticket's Belfast Political Walking Tour. Cruise to Ireland and walk the streets where the city's historic political events took place and learn more than any guidebook can tell you.

Local Cuisine

Belfast cuisine is about more than fish and chips (although there's plenty of that, too). It's also about fresh-caught seafood including oysters and small crabs — served alongside a proper pint of ale, of course. Upscale modernist fare more your thing? Head to one of the restaurants that overlook the River Lagan, where you'll find everything from forward-thinking updates on British cuisine to Italian small plates.

Check out the Titanic Store at Titanic Belfast with your Ireland cruise. Souvenirs include vintage posters, food products, collectibles and clothing. On weekends, St. George's Market has a variety of local vendors selling handicrafts. Danielle Morgan's Flax Fox brand specializes in gift ware and limited edition Irish-inspired prints.

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British Isles Cruises and Cruisetours

Explore castles and countrysides on a uk and ireland cruise.

On a British Isles cruise, fairytales come to life as you explore storybook castles and enchanting countrysides. Admire the stained-glass windows of Glasgow Cathedral. Uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge in England, and ascend the Eiffel Tower in Paris. And legend has it, you'll get the gift of gab after visiting the Blarney Stone at Ireland's iconic castle. With Princess®, feel like royalty amidst noble landscapes.

British Isles Cruise & Cruisetour Options

To legendary lands and beyond

British Isles Cruises

Your British Isles cruise will take you to England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, France, Scotland and fabled lands beyond. Encounter age-old traditions during a performance from the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Mosey down cobbled pathways in Dublin that tell tales of civilizations past. Or walk along Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, and keep your eyes peeled for mythical creatures that call these waters home.

 14 – 16 Nights

Ring of Kerry Cruisetour

1 night Limerick  |  2 nights Killarney  |  1 night Cork

Escorted by a Tour Director

Then board your British Isles cruise

Select sightseeing and most meals included

Scotland, Ireland & UK Cruise Ports of Call

Discover some of the world-renowned destinations that await you on a British Isles cruise with Princess.

• Orkney Islands
• Paris & Normandy (Le Havre)
• Portland for Stonehenge

Teeming with rural villages and vast countryside, Belfast is an explorer’s playground. Cruise to the British Isles and walk through the basalt formations of Giant’s Causeway. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and observe the park’s Victorian heritage. Or experience true country living in the cottage of a breadmaker, where you can make fresh-baked goods to accompany your afternoon cup of tea.

In a land where fable and fact blend to become folklore, Cork is a beacon of romance among Ireland’s iconic cities. On a British Isles cruise, see the city’s emerald terrains reflected in the lakes of Killarney National Park. Savor an Irish coffee in the 18th-century village of Blarney. Or enjoy a lunch on the hills of Cashel, with the Romanesque architecture of St. Patrick’s Rock as your backdrop.

Experience the best of Irish hospitality on a British Isles cruise to Dublin. Stop by a pub and hear stories of the city from the people who call it home. Tour Trinity College, one of the world’s most famous universities. Or discover the secrets to brewing a stout at the Guinness Storehouse, and sip on a complimentary glass just a few hundred yards from where it’s made.

With centuries of cultural change, Edinburgh is home to a diverse landscape of design. Cruise the British Isles and follow the Royal Mile to the top of Castle Rock, where Edinburgh Castle sits overlooking the city below. Marvel at the expansive collection of artwork in the Royal Yacht Britannia, or shop for souvenirs on Princes Street while admiring the Georgian architecture of New Town.

Once an industrial giant, Glasgow is brimming with treasure. When you cruise the British Isles, wander the halls of Inveraray Castle to see a collection of royal portraits. Watch a kaleidoscopic display in Glasgow Cathedral as the sun pours through the stained-glass windows. Or spend the day admiring armor, weaponry and global gems in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Orkney is home to some of the oldest Neolithic sites in Europe. On a British Isles cruise, history buffs can hear World War II stories at the Italian Chapel. Or travel along Scapa Flow for an even deeper look into the region’s history of naval travel and trade. For those seeking mysteries, uncover secrets of the Ring of Brodgar, part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In a land that inspires love stories, reconnect with loved ones on a British Isles cruise to France. Dock in Le Havre and enjoy a breakfast crepe at a sidewalk cafe. Or embark on a day-long adventure in one of two directions. Visit Paris, where famous artwork awaits, or head to Normandy and see the D-Day beaches or the tidal island of Mont Saint Michel. From the painted portraits to the real-life scenery, revel in it all with Princess.

Used to build Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral, the stone extracted from Portland’s quarries has changed history. But there’s more to the city than it’s commodities. Cruise the British Isles to investigate the mysteries of Stonehenge, and learn about the grape-to-glass process at Langham Wine Estate. Or see hundreds of baby swans parading through the grounds of the 600-year-old Abbotsbury Swannery.

Why Cruise the British Isles

The British pubs, Parisian artwork and Irish castles invite you to live like royalty.

Storied and splendid

Castles are the emblem of these regions. Between the chandeliers and tapestries, step into luxury when you visit the British Isles. Cruise to Dublin and parade through the 13th-century halls of the city’s fortress. Experience the grandeur of Urquhart Castle, and search for legendary ghosts in Glamis Castle. Or visit Edinburgh Castle, where kings, queens and nobles once lived and medieval secrets continue to linger.

Melodies of memories past

As the birthplace of many music icons, the British Isles invite you to sing, dance and raise a glass to songs played around the globe. Visit Liverpool to walk in the footsteps of a beloved boyband, and head to a local pub to hear the boys at their best. Cruise the British Isles for an evening of Irish song and dance in Dublin, or watch the Edinburgh Military Tattoo assemble bands, bagpipes and drums for a soul-stirring show.

Globally recognized, historically prominent

The British Isles are a mecca of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Cruise from Southampton to Liverpool, and walk along the Royal Albert Dock, the first structure in Britain to be constructed without wood. Shop along Princes Street in Edinburgh’s New Town. Or travel to Brú na Bóinne in Dublin and get up close to Europe’s largest collection of prehistoric megalithic art.

Raise a glass to adventure

In lands famous for their stouts and ales, pubs are the cornerstone of tradition. Cruise the British Isles and step into age-old establishments that are bustling with spirit. In Dublin, get a taste of true pub “craic” — an Irish term that equates to an atmosphere of fun, entertainment and good company. With festive music playing in the background, sip on world-famous beers that originated nearby while sharing a laugh with locals.

Natural Phenomena

Unexplainable yet undeniable

Discern fact versus fiction on a British Isles cruise, where mysteries and mythologies abound. In Portland, learn about the 5,000-year-old stone circle that displays an advanced understanding of arithmetic and astrology. On itineraries that sail to Cork, search the sea for the Bioluminescence beams created by the region’s gleaming plankton. Or hunt for Invergordon’s legendary monster in the waters of Loch Ness.

Museums & Art Galleries

Ancient artifacts and acclaimed artwork

No cruise to the British Isles is complete without a visit to Paris. See “Venus de Milo” and da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” or tour Notre Dame, a work of art in and of itself. Visit the Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, where interactive galleries invite you to explore. Those departing from London can also stop by the Victoria and Albert Museum which houses over two million artifacts.

British Isles excursions

Our award-winning shore excursions bring you up close to beautiful coasts, monuments and historical wonderlands. On a British Isles cruise, snap photos of Dublin’s iconic sites — like St. Stephen’s Green and Christ Church Cathedral — and taste a world-famous stout at the Guinness Storehouse. Or ride through quaint villages in Belfast on your way to Giant’s Causeway, and revel in the natural structures that surround you.

Local connections

When you cruise the British Isles, meet the diverse personalities that call these lands home. In Dublin, head to a countryside bed and breakfast where a local chef invites you to savor homemade scones and jam. Or set out on a day-long tour in Cork with your loved ones and visit the city’s most iconic sites. Stop by the 18th-century village of Kinsale, and then continue to Blarney Castle, where legends and landmarks await.

More ashore

Enjoy even more history and culture during your British Isles cruise with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays. Visit several pubs during an evening tour, and hear stories from locals over a pint of local brew. Savor a traditional Scottish dinner in Edinburgh, and see the Royal Mile illuminated by street lamps and the evening light. Or explore Dublin by night, and indulge in Irish entertainment.

British Isles Cruise Onboard Experience

Curated comfort, world-class entertainment and international flavors await you.

Accomodations

Your home away from home

Your stateroom is where you rest and recharge between adventures. That’s why every room is equipped with the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program created by a board-certified sleep expert. From interior cabins to full suites, unwind in any of our staterooms, and enjoy peace of mind with the option of connected rooms for families of four or more traveling together.

Celebrations galore

With our "Festivals of the World," immerse yourself in the traditions of the region even on board your British Isles cruise. At the Celtic Festival, compete in cultural trivia and learn to penny whistle. During Oktoberfest, adults can sample a collection of brews while kids can try their hand at pretzel making. Or relax during regional music performances and lectures from experts about the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Comforting and classic

From fresh-baked biscuits to hearty pies, the British Isles are notorious for cooking up comforting favorites. On an British Isles cruise with Princess, indulge in a British Pub lunch with delicacies like Bangers & Mash and Shepherd’s Pie. Or enjoy a Sunday Roast at Crown Grill™ with roasted meat, potatoes and vegetables. Savor the comforts of home with specialty dining aboard every Princess ship.

Entertainment

Find your joy

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of  Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Reset, recharge, relax

Your European cruise should be every bit as refreshing as it is inspiring. Unwind in the Sanctuary, a retreat just for adults, and relish in tranquility. Or book an appointment at the Lotus Spa®, named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™. Enjoy relaxing treatments — like facials, hot stone massages and detoxifying wraps — that will leave you recharged for upcoming adventures.

Vegas hits the seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Ships sailing British Isles cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large vessels. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at breathtaking shorelines passing by before enjoying international cuisine in one of our many eateries during your British Isles cruise.

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

Explore Europe

Learn all about our exciting options to visit Europe from cruises to in-depth cruisetour vacations. 

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Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

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Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you could win prizes!

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Cruises to Belfast, Northern Ireland

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Belfast Northern Ireland Port Guide

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, a country that shares the same island as the Republic of Ireland but is part of the United Kingdom. While Belfast retains some of the Irish charm you’ll encounter in the cities of Dublin and Cork during a European cruise , Belfast has an ambiance entirely its own with a cosmopolitan vibe that you might expect to find in London or Edinburgh. The British influences in the city become apparent while you cruise Belfast, explore the streets, and encounter Victorian architecture and British pubs.

Your cruise to Belfast will pull into the harbor situated in Belfast Lough, the large sea inlet located on the east coast of Northern Ireland that connects to the Irish Sea via the North Channel.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to belfast, belfast castle.

Belfast Castle is a stately structure located on a hill in Cavehill Country Park. Here, you’ll get panoramic views of the city and sea below as well as a glimpse into the city’s past. Belfast Castle dates back to the 12th century when it was built by the Normans. Today, it’s a great place to amble around and enjoy the gardens and walking trails with gorgeous views. It also has an onsite restaurant and tavern.

Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall is designed in a Classical Renaissance style and has an impressive façade that is partly thanks to the Portland stone it’s made out of. Guided tours of Belfast City Hall are available.

Hillsborough Castle

Another iconic building you don’t want to miss is Hillsborough Castle, which was built in the 18th century and serves as the official residence of the British Royal Family when they’re in Northern Ireland. It also often serves as the meeting place for foreign dignitaries who visit Northern Ireland.

View All Belfast Shore Excursions

Top things to do in belfast, ulster museum.

Those who enjoy history, science, and freebies will enjoy a visit to the Ulster Museum. This interesting museum has free admission and houses a number of collections pertaining to history, art, and natural science.

Titanic Belfast Exhibit

The Titanic was built in Belfast, and you can visit a museum that focuses on the doomed ship’s history. The museum is set up in an interactive manner that makes you feel as if you’re walking along the decks of the ship. You’ll also visit an exhibit that will have you feeling as if you’ve traveled to the bottom of the North Atlantic to see where the Titanic now lies. Hear stories that were told by the survivors of the maritime disaster and learn about the workers who built the Titanic and more of the history behind its design, which was an engineering marvel back in its day. Another interesting facet of this museum is that it was built on the shipyard where the Titanic was built. You can even see the slip from which the ship was first launched.

Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway is one of the top natural wonders to see not just in Northern Ireland, but the world. It’s often called the 8th wonder of the world and is only 50 miles north of Belfast. What makes Giant’s Causeway so special is its unique formation of rocks that consist of over 40,000 basalt columns stacked next to each other in a myriad of heights right against the sea.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Belfast Cruise Port

Belfast is quickly becoming a culinary hot spot thanks to a new array of restaurants that offer trendy settings and haute cuisine. That, combined with traditional British taverns and Irish pubs, makes it a fun place to dine no matter what your taste buds are in the mood for. Here are some places to check out during your cruise to Belfast.

Crown Liquor Saloon

This restaurant has the reputation of being the most beautiful pub in Northern Ireland.

St. George’s Market (on May Street)

Head here for a laidback culinary journey through Northern Ireland’s largest indoor market. If you cruise to Belfast on a Saturday, you’ll find a farmer’s market there as well. St. George’s Market is located on May Street near Belfast Central Station.

Now here are the things you need to eat at the above restaurants (or wherever you find it on the menu!):

The Comber Potato

You’ll learn that not all potatoes are made the same after trying the Comber potato, a spud grown in the soil of Strangford Lough in County Down. It stands out from other potatoes due to its nutty flavor. Also making this potato interesting is the fact it has a Protected Geographical Indication, which is handed out to regional food to protect its reputation.

Abernethy Butter

Enhance your meal with some Abernethy butter made from local cream and churned by hand. Bushmills Whiskey: If you’re a whisky lover, you’ve likely heard of Bushmills Whiskey. This popular distillery is actually located near Belfast right on the Antrim coast. You can tour the distillery and do a tasting. Yellowman Candy: If you’re looking for something sweet after lunch or for a midday snack, head to Yellow Man Candy, which serves up pulled candy made in the Northern Irish tradition.

Culture & History of the Belfast Cruise Port

Belfast was the focal point of much political unrest during the end of the 20th century due to disagreements over who Northern Ireland belongs to. On one side were the Ulsters, who identified with Great Britain and wanted to keep the country part of the United Kingdom. On the other side of the conflict were the Nationalists, who wanted Northern Ireland to rejoin with the Republic of Ireland, which gained independence in 1920. The unrest between these two sides is referred to as “the troubles”.

Though the troubles have subsided, you can still see murals and other remnants left over from this conflict. Today, you’ll find a progressive city considered to be safer than many of the other European capitals. You’ll also find an international culture hospitable to visitors, many of whom enjoy learning more about the local art and music culture of Belfast.

Belfast Port Facilities & Location

Belfast is very accessible for those arriving by cruise. Belfast city center is located just three miles north of Belfast Harbour, where large cruise ships dock in Stormont Wharf. The cruise terminal is the largest in Northern Ireland and sees over 155,000 visitors each year. Shuttles that run between Belfast and the city center are usually available every 15 minutes.

Transportation in Belfast

When you cruise Belfast, you’ll see that the city is easy to explore by foot. If you don’t want to do much walking, though, there is plenty of public transportation to help you find your way around. Shuttles run between the harbor and city center every 15 minutes. Shore excursions are also a great way to explore Belfast and beyond.

Shopping Near the Belfast Cruise Port

You’ll find an array of upscale boutiques along Golden Mile, which is considered to be Belfast’s premier shopping district for luxury goods.

For high street fashion and other popular brands, head to one of Belfast’s shopping malls, such as Victoria Square Shopping Centre, Kennedy Shopping Centre, or Yorkgate Shopping Centre, all of which are a quick bus or taxi ride away from the port when you cruise to Belfast.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The official currency in Northern Ireland is the British Pound. However, it’s common to see English sterling notes in Northern Ireland as well, and banks in Belfast tend to use both. If you are dining out during your cruise, Belfast restaurants appreciate tips, with the customary amount to leave being between 10% to 15%.

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11 Night Cruise to the British Isles & Western Europe

12 night cruise to the british isles & western europe, 9 night cruise to europe.

• You're looking for a Carnival cruise aboard a more relaxed ship
• You value ships with wide-open decks for scenic cruising
• You typically book balcony staterooms and value plenty of choice
• You dislike wall-to-wall organised activities or zany diversions
• You're put off by wild, eye-popping interior decor schemes

12 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a sophisticated cruise with some Vegas glitz and glam
• You love having lots of diverse dining options for all tastes
• You're travelling as an extended family and need fun for all
• You like the promenade decks found on other Princess ships
• You want large cabins and balconies; standard ones are small

14 Night Cruise to the British Isles & Western Europe

• You want a family-friendly ocean cruise at a moderate price
• You like big ship amenities that don't sacrifice quality
• You want a balcony cabin; Caribbean Princess has plenty
• You are looking for enrichment activities or local cuisines
• You want action-packed nightlife and nonstop diversions
• You are averse to spending money onboard for extra options

22 Night Cruise to Around the World

• You want to sail on an intimate, former luxury cruise ship
• You don't care about the sails on Windstar's other ships
• You love relaxing on-deck and chatting with fellow guests
• You're prone to seasickness; these small ships can roll around
• You really like the idea of Windstar's hybrid sailing ships
• You need cabins and suites with real step-out balconies

14 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want to sail on one of Norwegian's slightly smaller but more spacious next generation of ships
• You seek the greatest selection of activities, bars, dining (al fresco included) and entertainment options
• You like a refined social atmosphere with places to escape to like a traditional observation lounge
• You prefer a smaller ship with fewer fellow passengers
• You are turned off by The Haven exclusives separate from public amenities
• You want even more included without the need to pay for extras

16 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a family-friendly cruise with plenty of British flair
• You are travelling solo and want an interesting experience
• You prefer exotic, off-the-beaten path cruise itineraries
• You are looking for an adult-only cruise experience from the U.K.
• You are looking for an experience catering to American tastes
• You dislike the idea of paying expenses in pounds sterling

12 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea

• You like a more classically styled, big-ship cruise experience
• You like bright, window-lined public rooms and open decks
• You want to go to ports that the bigger ships can't get to
• You want the latest whiz-bang gadgets and onboard features
• You are looking for surfing simulators, ziplines and the like
• You are looking for the last word in small-ship luxury cruising
• You want a lavish ship with some of the best rooms afloat
• You are an experienced, discerning traveller who likes the best
• You don't want to pay a premium price for all that lavishness
• You are in the market for a smaller, more intimate luxury ship

7 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea

• You like classic but renovated median-sized cruise ships
• You seek a good variety of restaurants, bars, activities and entertainment
• You appreciate destination-focussed observation spaces
• You prefer newer and larger cruise ships with more to do onboard
• You are looking for more elaborate activity and entertainment offerings

31 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You want a luxury cruise with expedition teams on some sailings
• You appreciate bright, modern public areas with few crowds
• You enjoy having plenty of inclusions and dislike extra charges
• The ship's adventurous expedition sailings don't interest you
• You want lots of nonstop entertainment and vibrant nightlife

83 Night Cruise to Around the World

• You are a discerning traveller seeking the ultimate luxury cruise
• You appreciate big-ship amenities with small-ship ambiance
• You want lavishly-appointed suites that spare no expense
• You prefer the intimacy of a smaller ship with fewer people
• You are watching your pennies; Mariner commands high prices

15 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You want to have a floating boutique hotel with every comfort
• You place high value on good cuisine and consummate service
• You want an adult-centric cruise to interesting ports of call
• You want the glitz and glam of Oceania's newer, larger ships
• You tend to suffer from seasickness; this ship can move around

10 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a big ship loaded with plenty of features and amenities
• You like having multiple choices for restaurants and lounges
• You appreciate uncomplicated dining times and dress codes
• You're adverse to extra charges; you’ll find plenty onboard
• You're looking for the latest bells-and-whistles at sea

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Cruises from Belfast

Port of Belfast

The port of Belfast is a popular departure point for ships throughout the year, allowing convenient access to the rest of Northern Europe. The typical check-in time for cruises leaving from Belfast is between two and three hours before departure. Before boarding your ship, you can take in the vibrant harbor scene, walk along the shore, or relax in one of the charming cafes. The port has all the modern comforts you need to have a comfortable first day of your journey, including restaurants, shops, and clean restrooms.

Destinations from Belfast

Cruises that leave from Belfast in 2024 can take you to a wide variety of destinations that are located all around Europe and even further beyond. Most commonly, cruises from Belfast go to exciting destinations such as the and countless more Northern European sites.

What cruise lines depart from Belfast?

The port of Belfast is served by a variety of different cruise lines in 2024. These range from those oriented toward families to those that are more elegant and traditional. Belfast port includes itineraries with and other cruise lines.

Cruise Season

The best time to visit Belfast and embark on a Northern Europe cruise is during the summer months from June to August. The weather is generally mild, and the city comes alive with festivals, events, and longer daylight hours. This period offers an ideal opportunity to explore Belfast's vibrant streets and take in the picturesque landscapes of the surrounding areas. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers, as the weather in Northern Ireland can be unpredictable year-round.

Due to the region's moderately cold climate and short summers, there is a short window of opportunity for cruises to depart from Belfast. The months of May to September, which are considered to be the peack seasons, are the best times to go on a cruise. However, if you want to see the Northern Lights, the best months are from December through March because during this time there are more hours of darkness and the night skies are cleaner. Explore cruises from Belfast that depart in the months of

Cruise Duration

Cruise Lines offer itineraries from Belfast that range from to days. You can choose cruises lasting from depending on the length of your holiday.

Belfast Port features multiple cruise terminals to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. The terminals are well-equipped and provide seamless embarkation and disembarkation processes. The two main cruise terminals are named Stormont and Titanic, each offering a range of amenities such as duty-free shopping, baggage handling services, and passenger lounges. The terminals are designed to enhance the overall cruise experience, providing a smooth transition between land and sea.

When it comes to check-in procedures, it is advisable to arrive at the port with ample time to complete the necessary formalities. The general check-in time for cruises departing from Belfast is typically a few hours before the scheduled departure time. This allows sufficient time for security checks, document verification, and baggage drop-off. Remember to have your valid identification, cruise tickets, and travel documents readily available to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Transportation

If you're arriving by air, Belfast Port is conveniently located approximately 10 miles from Belfast International Airport. Various transportation options are available, including taxis, private transfers, and airport shuttle services. Additionally, the city's efficient public transportation network offers bus and train connections to the port, making it easily accessible for passengers staying in Belfast city center or its surrounding areas.

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Cruises from Belfast

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Belfast, United Kingdom Cruises

Take a European cruise to Belfast to discover Northern Ireland's revitalized capital. Belfast is a beacon of thriving success and resilience with Victorian splendor mingling with 21st century museums, revitalized docklands, and buzzing restaurants. A central exhibit on the RMS Titanic is currently housed on the site where the legendary ship was built in Belfast, the birthplace of the RMS Titanic. Discover Northern Ireland's extraordinary landscape with a Belfast cruise and explore the countryside.

Belfast Highlights

Discover the fascinating history of Belfast, from the stunning Norman castles of the past to its vibrant present. It combines arts, music, and entertainment with stunning vistas and fascinating historical sites in Belfast, the bustling capital of Northern Ireland. There are plenty of delicious restaurants and pubs available, markets, street stalls, and local flavors and cultures.

1. History and Present

Belfast's shipyard built the RMS Titanic, which gained global renown in the early 20th century. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Titanic's tragic demise with the opening of a new museum on the slipways where she was built. Many exuberant Victorian and Edwardian buildings still bear the carved heads of kings and queens despite the city's 21st-century transformation. Look for "the murals" on building walls as you explore the city. These troubling freelance works illustrate the period known as "The Troubles."

The modern Belfast is home to restore Victorian architecture, an active food scene, thriving pubs, and a gleaming waterfront. The city center has been expanding and regenerating in recent years. Its Victorian buildings exude cosmopolitan elegance, while its pubs, inns, and shops maintain the city's famous Irish charm. There are high-end boutiques on Belfast's Golden Mile, and the Grand Opera House serves as a cultural hub. There is a distinct culture in each Belfast quarter. There is a lot of innovation and entertainment in the newly redeveloped Titanic district. There are many restaurants and nightlife options in addition to the famous ocean liner.

3. Local Market and Shopping

It is Belfast's premier shopping district for luxury goods, home to various upscale boutiques. A quick bus or taxi ride from Belfast's port will take you to several shopping malls where you can find high street fashion, famous brands, and other popular brands.

Interesting Spots to Visit

Discover the top sights to see around Belfast. Belfast is on a picturesque coastline and has a stunning country landscape, as seen on Game of Thrones. You can enjoy the unique culture, which reflects its Irish and British heritage. Discover the history and natural beauty of Belfast with these fascinating experiences:

1. Donegall Square

Main city streets radiate outward from the square at the center of Belfast. Here is the city hall, a vast rectangular structure constructed in the Edwardian style, and the Titanic memorial is located outside. Harland & Wolff shipyard built the ill-fated liner commemorated by the monument.

2. Crown Liquor Saloon

The striking Victorian drinking palace houses one of Belfast's best-known pubs, which dates back to the 1880s when it was first built. Its multi-colored tile façade and the structures surrounding it remain much the same today as when the building was first built. If you want a refreshing pint, you should grab a snug (or booth) and enjoy it while you listen to some music.

3. Belfast & Hillsborough Castle

It is surrounded by beauty with high hills, a sea, a lough, and a river valley surrounding Belfast. A robust northern metropolis, this robust northern town was the engine room for the industrial revolution in the 17th century. After taking an orientation tour of this famous city, you can explore Hillsborough's picturesque floral village.

4. Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Think back to how it would have been to live around Belfast centuries ago. Meet the neighbors who would have lived on a farm on this 170-acre site overlooking Belfast Lough and experience daily life on a farm. You can meet blacksmiths, farmers, and others who would have been your neighbors. Get hands-on experience churning butter and shearing sheep after exploring the museum, experience traveling by steam locomotive, horse-drawn carriage, or vintage car.

Frequently Asked Questions about to Belfast

1. Which are the best places to visit in Belfast?

2. What can be bought while shopping in Belfast?

3. What are the best museums to visit during a trip to Belfast?

4. What to know about culture while traveling in Belfast?

5. Does Belfast have a beach?

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Cruises From Belfast 2024

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Itinerary: Southampton, Belfast, Killybegs, Galway, Dingle, Dún Laoghaire, Cobh, Southampton

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An award winning cruise destination, Belfast is now widely regarded as one of the UK and Ireland’s most vibrant and exciting city destinations, full of unique visitor attractions and friendly faces.

In 2019 Cruise Belfast opened the first dedicated cruise terminal on the island of Ireland. The purpose built facility can accommodate all vessels currently operating in the UK and Ireland region.

View this season’s cruise schedule for information on visiting ships, including times, dates and passengers numbers.

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Belfast (Northern Ireland)

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Region Ireland - UK - British Isles

Local Time 2024-04-28 22:28

Port Belfast cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Belfast, Northern Ireland. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Belfast Harbour is Northern Ireland's largest cruise port and the country's capital city, with population around 340,000 (metro around 670,000). The port is located on Lagan River, which empties in the Irish Sea. The port handles over 100,000 passengers per year. The Port's harbor area is over 20% of the city's total area. Its deepwater quay is Ireland's longest. Fun fact is that there is a port town in the USA's state Maine (Waldo County) with the same name - Belfast ME .

The city houses the biggest Titanic museum in the world - Titanic Belfast (maritime heritage monument built at the site of the shipyard Harland & Wolff). Among the other popular tourist attractions is Game of Thrones, Crumlin Road Gaol Giant's Causeway, Walls of Derry, Ulster Museum, Exploris Aquarium.

Belfast received city status in 1888. The city was a center of Ireland's tobacco-processing, rope-making, linen and shipbuilding industries. During the early-20th-century, Harland & Wolff (the shipbuilder of RMS Titanic ) was the world's largest and most productive shipyard. Belfast played a key role in the Industrial Revolution (1820-1840) and until the latter half of the 20th century was a global industrial center. At the beginning of the 20th century, industrialization and migration made Belfast Ireland's largest city.

Currently, Belfast remains a center for industry, arts, higher education, law and business, and is considered Northern Ireland's economic engine. During the Troubles (ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland in the late-1960s-1998), the city suffered greatly from the intense political violence, but after recovering now enjoys substantial economic growth. The entire downtown area has undergone considerable expansion, mainly around Victoria Square.

Belfast is served by two airports - George Best Belfast City Airport (within the city) and Belfast International Airport (approx 15 mi / 24 km to the west). Belfast Harbour is a major seaport, with industrial and commercial docks dominating the coastline.

Port Belfast Harbour

Port's cruising season runs between April and October. Belfast Harbour (port locode GBBEL) is currently ranked the UK's fastest-growing seaport. Statistics show 35 cruise ship calls and handled 54,800 passengers (in 2010), 43 boats (in 2012), up to 84 boats and 143,500 passengers in 2016 (21% over 2015).

During season 2017, the cruise port had scheduled a total of 93 ship calls (estimated 156,000+ passengers), marking a record year since the seaport's cruise shipping business started in 1996. By the end of 2017, the Port celebrated 600+ cruise liner visits for the past 21 years. CMV Marco Polo was the 2017 season's first boat (arriving on April 21). Princess Cruises ship Caribbean Princess had scheduled a total of 14 stops in 2017.

It was estimated that the cruise industry's impact on Northern Ireland's economy is ~GBP 15 million (EUR 16,9 million) per year, with projected growth up to GBP 22 million by 2020. This forecast indicated that Port Belfast could see cruise tourists hitting the 230,000 mark in just 2 years. For 2018 were expected 110+ cruise vessels to dock here.

In 2018, the port had scheduled a total of 117 ship calls with estimated 200,000+ passengers. In 2019 (the Port's record year) were handled 146 calls (31% increase) from 35 different cruise companies, and ~285,000 passengers. July was 2019's busiest month (32 ship calls). Maiden port visits were booked for Spirit of Discovery ( Saga UK ), CMV Vasco da Gama , Costa Mediterranea ( Costa Cruises ' first), Disney Magic .

Belfast is directly linked by ferries with Cairnryan (Scotland) , Liverpool (England) and Heysham (England). All these ferry routes are operated by STENA LINE with regularly scheduled daily crossings. STENA LINE is the largest ferry company on the Irish Sea, with the biggest fleet and the most routes operated between Ireland and UK (a total of 228 weekly crossings). The company also serves the routes from Dublin to Holyhead (Isle of Anglesey, Wales UK) and from Rosslare-Europort to Fishguard (Wales UK) . STENA also offers direct service Rosslare to Cherbourg ()France) (3 return crossings weekly).

• In 2017, Belfast ferry port reported a record year with handled 514,000 units (vehicles and wheeled cargo) or 3% increase over 2016. Car shipping volumes were ~360,000 (2,5% increase) and the number of ferried passengers was 1,5+ million (2,5% increase). The biggest increase (10,5%) was reported for the bus traffic.
• STENA's Belfast ferry services in the period 2012-2017 grew by 15% (car volumes), 13% (passenger traffic) and 19% (freight traffic). STENA LINE operates from Belfast with 7 ferries and 22 daily crossings.

The Northern Ireland-based company LCC Group invested in Port Belfast Harbour a total of GBP 30 million into facilities and equipment for processed coal. The coal (annual capacity around 0,5 million tons) is exported directly to Scandinavian and mainland European countries, as well as to North Africa, Saudi Arabia, Australia. LCC Group's investments are in increasing the harbour's draft and cranage capability. The company's facility is the world's most sophisticated coal processing plant. The purified coal is used for ferroalloy production and silica metals (used in solar panels and medical equipment). LCC imports raw coal from Columbia.

For FY2018 (fiscal year), the port reported record cargo volumes (over 24 million tons) and trade growth (over (24,6 million tons, or +3,8% over FY2017). Coal imports and exports (by LCC) grew over 37% (to over 1 million tons). The largest coal exports were to Australia, Saudi Arabia, Russia. Animal grains and feeds grew 7,5% (to 2,35 million tons). STENA's freight vehicle volumes grew 3% (to 532,000 units) and the ferry passengers - to 1,5+ million.

On September 17, 2019, Belfast Harbour announced plans for iconic waterfront developments. When completed (in 2024), the GBP 254 million (~EUR 290 M) project will result in a modern place attracting both tourists and local citizens with opportunities for living, working and leisure.

• The project is expected to generate 7000+ new local jobs and support ~3500 construction jobs, GBP 500 million in gross value (added to Northern Ireland's economy), GBP 300 million (in wages annually) and GBP 4 million in city rates (annually).
• Belfast Harbour's waterfront development works will include deepening the shipping channel (to allow access to larger-sized boats), creating deepwater quays (new), completion of "City Quays 4" (2 million ft2 land developments), creating Catalyst Inc (5-storey office building, science and technology hub), Giant's Park (new film studios), Pierpont Plaza (new public event space).

Port's 2019-2023 plans (GBP 254 million investments) included cranes and material handling equipment upgrades, installing new/larger ramps, building new warehouses, and installing "Smart Port" digital solutions.

Until 2019, the port's largest cruise liner (by passenger capacity ) was Celebrity Reflection (max 3655 pax plus 1000 crew). On September 26th (2019) here docked MSC Meraviglia (2017-built) carrying 5386 passengers from 30+ countries. Meraviglia visited Northern Ireland as part of the 17-day Transatlantic crossing from Germany to the USA (RepositionCruises.com).

On October 7, 2021, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth made the Port's 1000th cruise ship call. Due to the Coronavirus crisis, Belfast Harbour paused its cruise shipping operations for the period March 2020 through June 2021, restarting with UK-only itineraries.

On October 1, 2019, Belfast Harbour revealed details on the GBP 40 million project to upgrade Victoria Terminal 3 (VT3 container terminal) which connects Northern Ireland to all global markets via Rotterdam Holland , Antwerp Belgium and Le Havre France . By this 3-year project were invested GBP 28M for purchasing 10 new gantry cranes and conducted major terminal development works (by the contractor company F.P. McCann).

• The 27-acres VT3's capacity will be increased by around 1/3. Belfast Harbour's container terminal is operated by Irish Continental Group and as of 2019 handles 250+ annual crossings between Belfast and Europe.
• The new gantry cranes can handle larger boxships . Two STS cranes (Ship-to-Shore) were purchased from Liebherr, with the first scheduled for delivery in 2020-Q1. Eight new RTG cranes (Rubber Tyre Gantry) were purchased from Kalmar. The first five RTGs were delivered in November 2019. The first two were scheduled to be ready in 2020-Q1.
• In 2018, VT3 handled nearly 128,000 TEU-containers (1,5% increase over 2017).
• In June 2020, at VT3 was installed a new (GBP 6,6 million) ship-to-shore gantry crane (fully electric). The Liebherr crane weighs 765 tons and has lifting capacity 40x TEUs (each with max weight 40 tons) per hour.

In 2019, Belfast Harbour invested GBP 0,5 million (EUR 0,583M) to Ireland's first dedicated cruise terminal. In 2021, Cruise Belfast enlarged the terminal building by 215 m2 (2314 ft2). The extension facilitated baggage handling, security scanning, and homeport passenger processing.

Following the COVID crisis, in 2022 (April through November) the Port handled 141 cruise ship calls (52 different vessels from 33 companies, including 18 maiden/first visits) and 250,000+ tourists.

In 2023 (March through October), Port Belfast Harbour had scheduled 165 cruise calls (+15% over 2019) from 62 different ships (34 different cruise brands) with estimated ~340,000 tourists (passengers+crew). The record season featured 6x embarkations by the new UK-based brand Ambassador Cruise Lines (ship Ambition), and 15x maiden/first-time visiting ships. Eventually, in 2023, the cruise port handled 158 ship calls (+8% over 2019) from 57 different vessels (32 companies/brands) of which 13 were maiden visits. Also in 2023 was welcomed the Port's 2 millionth cruise tourists (since 1996).

Harland & Wolff Shipyard (Belfast)

"Harland and Wolff Heavy Industries" is a major construction company specializing in shipbuilding and ship repairs, as well as design, structural engineering, offshore projects. The company is most famous for building the White Star Line sisterships RMS Olympic (1911), RMS Titanic (1912) and HMHS Britannic (1915).

The shipyard's main facilities are two of Europe's largest drydocks - with a capacity to handle vessels with LOA length 556 m (1824 ft) and 335 m (1099 ft) - plus several fully-serviced berths.

• In 2003, the company was nearly awarded the shipbuilding contract for the Cunard liner RMS Queen Mary 2 but was not given the required British Government guarantee. As a result, the building contract was awarded to the French shipyard Chantiers de l'Atlantique in St Nazaire .
• In 2017, Harland & Wolff were awarded the contract for the drydock refurbishment of the cruise ship Azamara Pursuit (ex P&O Adonia) .

In December 2019, the shipyard was acquired by InfraStrata plc (2007-founded, UK-based company) that also fully owns the subsidiaries Portland Gas Esp, InfraStrata Heavy Industries, Infrastrata UK and InfraStrata Energy UK.

In 2020, under the new ownership (InfraStrata) at Harland & Wolff were conducted several cruise ship drydock refurbishments, including of 3x Viking OCEAN boats. The shipyard's facilities were upgraded with new dock gates, robot welding machines, power lines, among others.

In 2021, the shipyard's outdoor Repair Dock provided its first general maintenance support to Virgin Voyages ' boat Scarlet Lady , and serviced P&O UK 's boat Azura - both without drydocking/having to take the vessels out of service. Also in 2021, at the shipyard's Building Dock (indoor) was serviced the crude oil tanker Dorset Spirit (IMO 9780782, Canada- flagged ) which by LOA length (280 m / 919 ft) is the largest vessel so far drydocked in Belfast.

Belfast cruise terminal

Port Belfast has two cruise ship docks. Stormont Dock (Belfast Harbour) has wharf length 457 m (1500 ft) and is located approx 3 mi (5 km) north of downtown, and is used by larger liners . Pollock Dock has a wharf length of 177 m (580 ft) and is used for berthing of smaller vessels.

Belfast cruise terminal is located 2 mi / 3 km from downtown (direction north-east) with available shuttle bus service to Donegall Square North. The Visit Belfast Welcome Centre there provides all the necessary assistance for tourists, including information, advice, schedule changes, booking services, box office (special events and tours), gift shop, luggage left, internet.

The cruise port welcomes its passengers with music performances. At the terminal, you can find useful brochures and maps of the city. There is nothing interesting to see close to the Belfast cruise port terminal.

A good option for transport is the local metro system. If you want to rent a car from the Belfast cruise port terminal, available offices are of Budget and Avis. If you prefer taxis, be aware to chose the London-style taxis (classic black car), because the non-official can overcharge you.

(NEW) Belfast Cruise Ship Terminal D3

In 2013, port authorities announced plans for building a new cruise terminal (project cost GBP 15 million).

The new passenger terminal's berth was dredged to allow docking to even the world's largest cruise vessels . The facility is located close to the city's Titanic attractions - Titanic Belfast, Titanic's Dock and Pump-House, SS Nomadic (White Star Line's tender ship launched in 1911 and used to transfer passengers to and from the ships RMS Olympic and RMS Titanic ).

Due to environmental issues, the project was delayed 2 years (initially scheduled for completion in 2015). Construction works were re-scheduled for completion in 2019. The new cruise terminal was built on seaport's outskirts (close to Belfast City Airport) and officially opened/inaugurated on July 29, 2019. During no-ship days and off-season, at the new dock are berthed cargo- and container ships . Terminal's parking is at an additional cost (GBP 9 per day).

The new cruise terminal (managed/staffed by Visit Belfast) uses the latest digital media technologies to showcase Northern Ireland’s best-known tourist attractions. Amenities also include dedicated parking lots for shuttle buses, taxis, and tour coaches.

The new cruise terminal was inaugurated/officially opened on July 29, 2019, during the port call of Crown Princess . The ceremony was attended by Councillor John Finucane (Lord Mayor of Belfast), John McGrillen (Tourism NI's CEO), Gerry Lennon (Visit Belfast's CEO) and Domenico Lubrano Lavadera (Crown Princess ship's Captain).

• Belfast City Hall: you can easily reach it with the shuttle service from the Belfast cruise port terminal. The amazing building is located close to Visit Belfast Welcome Centre. The building is a Classical Renaissance-style, made of Portland stone. There are free guided tours from Mon to Sat.
• Titanic Quarter: discover the Titanic story. You can visit Titanic Belfast – the largest museum of the ill-fated liner.
• Waterfront Hall: one of the leading conference centers in the world.
• Ulster Museum: the museum houses interesting collections of history, art, and natural science. Admission: free.
• Victoria Square Shopping centre: Victoria Square is among the most expensive development of property in Northern Ireland and the largest one. Its building cost is £400 million ($641 m).
• Belfast Castle: located in the north part of the city, Cave Hill County Park’s lower slopes.

Belfast tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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130 Cruise Ships to Berth in Belfast During 2022

Belfast is expecting to welcome 130 cruise ships during the 2022 season, including 18 first time visitors.

Cruise Belfast, the partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast which markets Belfast as a leading cruise ship destination, has announced that more than 50 different vessels from 33 cruise lines are booked to dock in the city throughout 2022, with up to 340,000 visitors expected to come ashore to experience Northern Ireland’s award-winning tourist attractions.

The cruise season, which will run from April to November this year, will see 18 new ships calling to the shores of Belfast for the first time, including ‘Ambassador Ambience,’ from new British cruise line, Ambassador, and Princess Cruises calling with its ships Enchanted Princess & Island Princess.

Michael Robinson, Belfast Harbour’s Port Director, said:

“ Following two challenging years for tourism, the team at Belfast Harbour is thrilled to have 130 cruise vessels booked for arrival at our Port in 2022.  This busy cruise schedule signals an increase in customer confidence in travel and will be a welcome economic boost to the local tourism industry.

“ The team is also looking forward to welcoming 18 ships for their inaugural call to these shores, which will further enhance Belfast’s and the wider region’s reputation as a must-visit cruise destination.

“ Following the safe and successful resumption of cruise tourism last year, we continue to work with public health agencies and the cruise lines to implement safety protocols to ensure the wellbeing of all visitors and staff. As restrictions are eased, the team will review our procedures in line with government guidelines, with safety remaining our highest priority .”

Mary Jo McCanny, Director of Visitor Servicing at Visit Belfast, added:

“ The tourism investment that brought an increasing number of international and first-time visitors here before Covid, placed Belfast in a really good position to safely welcome cruise visitors back to Northern Ireland last summer. We expect to exceed our 2019 cruise passenger numbers this season, which is a testament to the quality of our visitor experiences, the strong working relationships Cruise Belfast has with global cruise operators and the warmth of the visitor services teams.

“ The partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast and on-going support from Tourism NI enables us to provide both shore-side and on-board visitor information services, ensuring a first-class welcome is available to passengers as soon as they arrive in Belfast.  The Visitor Services team is looking forward to a busy cruise season welcoming visitors from around the world and we will continue to work with our tourism partners and cruise ground handlers in driving much needed business to visitor attractions and experience providers right across Northern Ireland and support the rebuilding of our tourism economy. ”

To see the latest cruise schudule click here .

NOTES TO EDITORS

Set up in 1999, Cruise Belfast is a marketing and visitor servicing partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast to attract cruise visitors to Belfast and Northern Ireland.

Visit Belfast is a public/private sector partnership funded and supported by Belfast City Council, Tourism Northern Ireland and the private sector. It is the official tourism marketing agency for the Belfast City Region, dedicated to promoting Belfast as a city break, conference and cruise ship destination. It is also responsible for the operation of three gateway visitor information centres.

Visit Belfast represents more than 500 tourism businesses and services across the industry including accommodation providers, attractions, conference venues and services, tour operators, transport providers, entertainment venues, restaurants and cafes, pubs and clubs and event organisers.

Belfast Harbour is Northern Ireland’s leading gateway for trade, services and tourism, handling more than two thirds of the imports and exports that come into and out of the region by sea. The Port is essential to the smooth running of day-to-day life in the region and a major contributor to Northern Ireland’s economy. The Harbour estate is also home to a vibrant community of people and businesses, including commercial and residential real estate, film studios and leading companies in sectors such as IT, R&D, engineering and aerospace who employ over 27,000 people.

Working in partnership with stakeholders, Belfast Harbour’s vision is to become the world’s best regional port by growing economic activity, adopting new technology and upholding the highest environmental standards. Belfast Harbour is also committed to developing an iconic waterfront that is a standout destination for the city’s residents and visitors.

As a Trust Port, all profits from Belfast Harbour are re-invested for the long-term benefit of our customers and wider society.

Significant investment by Belfast Harbour has been made to port-side facilities in recent years, including a new dedicated cruise visitor information and welcome facility, part-funded by Tourism NI and managed by Visit Belfast, that opened in 2019.

To facilitate new Covid health protocols, funding was also secured from the DfE Tourism Recovery Programme in March 2021 (administered through Tourism Northern Ireland) to ensure that full safe-guarding measures are in place ready for the first cruise arrivals, providing as safe an environment as possible for cruise guests, crew, local staff and the wider local population whilst delivering a warm and informative welcome. Further funding was awarded to support cruise marketing and sales activity and develop an industry facing cruise welcome programme.

Margaritaville at Sea Islander Completes Sea Trials

• April 28, 2024

Undergoing a major conversion at the Harland & Wolff Shipyard in Belfast, the Margaritaville at Sea recently completed a series of sea trials.

According to Margaritaville at Sea, the vessel passed the tests—which took place in the Irish Sea—with flying colors.

With most of the work onboard now completed, the 2000-built cruise ship is now getting ready to reposition to North America ahead of its debut.

Starting in June, the Margaritaville at Sea Islander is set to offer four- and five-night cruises to the Western Caribbean and Florida, departing from the Port Tampa Bay.

The year-round itineraries include visits to Key West, Cozumel and Puerto Progreso, in addition to one or two days at sea.

In 2025, the 2,100-guest vessel is also set to offer six- and seven-night cruises to different parts of the Caribbean, adding destinations in Belize, Jamaica and Grand Cayman.

With a design based on Carnival Cruise Line’s Spirit Class, the Margaritaville at Sea Islander originally entered service in the early 2000s.

Built for Costa Cruises as the Costa Atlantica, the vessel also sailed for CSSC Carnival in China before being acquired by Margaritaville at Sea in 2023 .

Out of service since early 2020, the Islander arrived at the Harland & Wolff Shipyard in early January 2024 .

In addition to technical and class work, the ship is undergoing a major conversion project that includes updates to staterooms, features and public areas.

According to Margaritaville at Sea, newly added attractions include the three-story poolside LandShark Bar at Sea and a family-friendly pool deck.

Signature favorites of the Margaritaville family, such as JWB Prime Steakhouse, 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar, and Rita’s Taco House, were also added to the ship’s public areas.

The Islander’s 1,100 staterooms are being fully redesigned as well, receiving a custom styling reminiscent of the sand, sea, and sky, and all-new furnishings including Margaritaville’s signature bedding, pillows and linens.

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Investigation Update on the   Sapphire Princess

Cruise Line : Princess Cruises

Cruise Ship : Sapphire Princess

Voyage Dates : April 5–May 7, 2024

Voyage number: H408

Number of passengers who reported being ill during the voyage out of total number of passengers onboard : 94 of 2,532 (3.71%)

Number of crew who reported being ill during the voyage out of total number of crew onboard : 20 of 1,066 (1.8%)

Predominant symptoms : diarrhea and vomiting

Causative agent : norovirus

Actions : In response to the outbreak, Princess Cruises and the crew aboard the ship reported the following actions:

• Collected stool specimens from gastrointestinal illness cases for testing.
• Isolated ill passengers and crew.
• Increased cleaning and disinfection procedures according to the ship’s outbreak prevention and response plan.

VSP remotely monitored the situation, including review of the ship’s outbreak response and sanitation procedures.

Note : The gastrointestinal illness cases reported are totals for the entire voyage and do not represent the number of active (symptomatic) gastrointestinal cases at any given port of call or at disembarkation.

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Stock market today: Asian benchmarks mostly slide as investors focus on earnings

People walk in front of an electronic stock board showing Japan’s Nikkei 225 index at a securities firm Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

People look at an electronic stock board showing Japan’s Nikkei 225 index at a securities firm Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

A person looks at an electronic stock board showing Japan’s Nikkei 225 index at a securities firm Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

People walk in front of an electronic stock board showing U.S. Dollar/Japanese Yen exchange rate at a securities firm Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

FILE - People pause near an entrance to the New York Stock Exchange in New York, March 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez, File)

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TOKYO (AP) — Asian shares mostly declined Thursday as investors awaited a flood of global earnings reports, including updates from U.S. tech companies known as the “Magnificent Seven.”

Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 slid 1.4% in morning trading to 37,931.81. South Korea’s Kospi dropped nearly 1.0% to 2,649.96. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng gained 0.5% to 17,282.67, while the Shanghai Composite edged 0.2% higher, to 3,049.90.

Trading was closed in Australia for a national holiday, Anzac Day.

Attention is also turning to the Bank of Japan, whose two-day monetary policy meeting started Thursday.

“For the record, heading into tomorrow’s policy decision, exceptional Japanese yen weakness is the agitated elephant in the room for the BoJ,” Tan Jing Yi of Mizuho Bank said in a commentary.

In currency trading, the U.S. dollar rose to 155.46 Japanese yen from 155.31 yen. The euro cost $1.0707, up from $1.0697.

The yen has been trading at 155 yen-levels lately, its lowest level in 34 years. That helps Japanese exporters by raising the value of their overseas earnings, but it also raises the price of imports. Speculation has been growing Japan may intervene to prop up the yen.

On Wall Street, the S&P 500 was virtually flat and edged up by 1.08, or less than 0.1%, to 5,071.63. It had jumped sharply in the first two days of the week to claw back nearly two-thirds of last week’s steep loss .

The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 42.77, or 0.1%, to 38,460.92, and the Nasdaq composite added 16.11, or 0.1%, to 15,712.75.

Tesla jumped 12.1% after saying the night before that it would accelerate production of new, more affordable vehicles , which investors have been hoping will kickstart growth. The announcement helped investors look past the 55% drop in profit that Tesla reported.

Tesla is the first of the group of stocks among the Magnificent Seven to report its results for the start of 2024. The focus is on the small group of stocks because they drove most of the U.S. stock market’s gain last year, and they’ll need to perform to justify their high prices.

Meta Platforms also reported its latest results after trading ended Wednesday. Alphabet and Microsoft will follow it a day later.

The hope is that profit growth will broaden beyond the Magnificent Seven to other types of companies, in large part because a remarkably solid U.S. economy. They’ll likely need to deliver fatter profits if they want their stock prices to rise. That’s because they’re unlikely to get much help from the other lever that can lift stock prices: interest rates.

“A strong earnings season looks likely to help restore market confidence,” according to Solita Marcelli, chief investment officer Americas at UBS Global Wealth Management.

A report Wednesday said orders for machinery, airplanes and other long-lasting manufactured goods were stronger last month than expected. A recent string of such reports has quashed hopes that the Federal Reserve may deliver the three cuts to interest rates this year that it had earlier signaled.

Boeing lost 2.9% despite reporting results that weren’t as bad as analysts feared . The company, which is battling criticism about the safety of its airplanes, said it’s taking steps to improve its manufacturing quality, which has slowed down production.

Teledyne Technologies tumbled 10.9% for one of the market’s largest losses after the seller of digital imaging sensors, cameras and other equipment reported weaker profit and revenue than forecast. It said demand from the industrial automation and test and measurement markets was weaker than it expected.

On the winning side of the market, Hasbro jumped 11.9% after the toy and game company reported better profit and revenue for the latest quarter than analysts expected. It benefited from growth delivered by its Baldur Gate 3 and Magic: The Gathering games, as well as by its Peppa Pig content.

Texas Instruments climbed 5.6% after reporting stronger profit and revenue for the latest quarter than forecast. Boston Scientific was another one of the stronger forces pushing upward on the S&P 500. It rose 5.7% after topping forecasts for profit and revenue.

In energy trading, benchmark U.S. crude declined 15 cents to $82.66 a barrel. Brent crude, the international standard, fell 14 cents to $87.88 a barrel.

AP Business Writer Stan Choe contributed.