Tuesday, April 30, 2024 - 15:03 by londonderry
The Port in Derry-Londonderry, which is celebrating its 170th anniversary this year, is expected to host nine different cruise lines and six inaugural calls between May and September.
2023 was a record-breaking year for the Port as they welcomed over 16,000 passengers and crew, including the arrival of the biggest ship to ever anchor in the Foyle, Norwegian Star. Her sister ship, Norwegian Dawn is expected in August of this year.
At least six ships will make a welcome return to the destination including Hebridean Princess, which is scheduled to make two overnight visits in the city centre berth at Fort George.
50% of the calls this year will be inaugural visits showing growth in demand for the destination. This includes a first time visit from Villa Vie Residences, a brand-new startup offering a three-and-a-half year residential world cruise.
Foyle Port’s Harbour Master and Operations Director, Bill McCann said, “We are very much looking forward to welcoming back all our returning cruise lines and eagerly await those who are visiting for the first time. The port has worked hard in recent years to promote the destination on a global scale with an aim of building cruise tourism to the region.”
Visit Derry’s Chief Executive, Odhran Dunne said, “Visit Derry are delighted that Lough Foyle will welcome cruise passengers from around the globe again this year to experience some of the fantastic range of tourism attractions and experiences on offer across the North West region. Whilst the cruise visitors will have a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the stunning scenery along the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way, we are delighted that many will also enjoy the unique heritage and culture of the Walled City during their visit.”
He added, “Visit Derry looks forward to working in partnership with Foyle Port to provide a warm welcome and visitor information shoreside to all the cruise passengers and crew arriving this season.”
These sentiments were echoed by Louise Denvir, Cruise Marketing Executive, Foyle Port who said, “The North West has the most incredible range of tourism products on offer in an area of outstanding natural beauty which, we believe, makes it the most attractive cruise destination on the island of Ireland. Donegal was named one of the best regions in the world to visit in 2024 by Lonely Planet due to the scenic landscape, rich history, commitment to sustainable tourism practices and the warm, friendly people. The historic, vibrant city of Derry-Londonderry, home to the ‘Derry Girls’, award-winning museums and some of the greatest outdoor festivals in the world is right on our doorstep making for an incredibly compelling destination for international cruise visitors.”
The first cruise ship, Seabourn Ovation, will anchor in Greencastle on 14th May. The complete cruise schedule can be found at www.foyleport.com/cruise-and-leisure
