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Belfast has three locations: See Map

* D1 Belfast Cruise Terminal is used for all "cruise calls" - cruise ships just visiting. This new terminal (2019) can accommodate ships with up to 6,000 passengers and crew and it has a smart cruise visitor information centre, a gift shop, plenty of seating and free wifi plus a large coach parking area and space for shuttle buses and taxis. *  Stormont Wharf is used for smaller ships. *  Pollock Dock is used only for "turnarounds" ships starting or ending their cruise in Belfast.

Most of the time there are shuttles that run between the harbor and the city center, close to the tourist office, every 15 minutes.

This is only announced the night before, so not to jeopardize the excursion sales. The usual rate is $12 per person.

A taxi only costs £7 one way per taxi, and thus is a much better deal especially if traveling with more persons.

Printable map to take along.

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Belfast Ireland

Sightseeing:

The center of Belfast is small enough to be explored by foot.

To make the most of your time in the city your first point of contact should be the centrally located Belfast Welcome center (Tourist Office) at 9 Donegall Sq North, opposite of City Hall. The staff can provide maps, book tours, recommend itineraries and places of interest. There is also a useful left luggage facility. See gotobelfast.com for more information.

If you are interested in going to the Titanic Belfast museum, buy your tickets online at www.titanicbelfast.com . The museum is only a few years old but it’s still popular enough that it sells out.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

At the cruise dock taxi tours of 90 minutes can be booked to see the World Famous Catholic & Protestant Murals that paint a picture of Belfast colorful history while your personal tour guide gives you the inside info. £35 per taxi. A very highly rated tour.

If your time is limited, the open-top ' Belfast Sightseeing ' bus tours are recommended, costing about £13 per person for a 2-hour journey. You will be shown the sights in the city center and suburbs including famous murals painted on the ends of terraced houses during 'The Troubles' in the Falls Road area, the Harland and Wolff shipyards where the Titanic was built and Queens University. The guides are friendly, well informed and interesting. As guides are "real": only English spoken and no earphones.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here

Nearby Places:

The top visitor attraction in Northern Ireland is the Giants Causeway . Considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world, the Giants Causeway is well worth the effort to get to it.

Shopping and Food

St. George's Market , on May Street, is situated near Belfast Central Station, It is Northern Ireland's largest indoor market and one of Belfast's major attractions for visitors and locals alike. Farmers markets are held on Saturdays, and variety markets are held on Sundays and Fridays. It sells a fascinating range of foods, clothing and crafts. You can pick up some real bargains here, and the market itself provides a fascinating glimpse into Belfast life both past and present.

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Communication:

English is spoken everywhere but Irish (Gaeilge) is also used.

Free WiFi at the Belfast Welcome center and the new terminal.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

City center Shops generally open Mon- Sat, 9.30am-5.30pm (Thurs. until 9pm).Some larger stores open Sun 1-5pm. Neighborhood stores and garage forecourt convenience shops often open much longer - 24 hours in many cases.

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Belfast Cruise Port Guide | 10 Best Things To Do In Port

Welcome to Belfast cruise port, Northern Ireland’s capital and its largest city, one of the most popular stops in the British Isles cruise itineraries! Belfast Harbour lies on the banks of the River Lagan on the country’s east coast and is famous for being  the birthplace of the Titanic. The port of Belfast is Northern Ireland’s largest cruise port and consists of three cruise terminals, located within a short drive from Belfast downtown. In this article, read about:

• Belfast cruise port (Belfast cruise terminal, getting around, helpful info)
• Top 10 things to do in Belfast Northern Ireland

Visit also our cruise port guides to Greenock (Glasgow) , Cork (Cobh) , Dover , Dublin , Invergordon (Inverness)

Belfast Cruise Port

Port Belfast is Northern Ireland’s largest cruise port and consists of three main docking locations: Stormont Wharf, Pollock Dock, and New Belfast Cruise Ship Terminal. See the Belfast cruise schedule

• Stormont Wharf  is dedicated to larger cruise liners and is located on Stormont Road approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) from the Belfast city center.
• Pollock Dock can accommodate smaller cruise vessels and is located closer to the city center, around 1.5 miles (2.5 km) from the downtown.

These terminals have facilities that include basic passenger assistance, a tourist information center, a gift shop, and parking for taxis/tour buses.

Since 2019, there has been a new cruise terminal D3 ( Cruise Ship Terminal Belfast ) located on Airport Road on the outskirts of the harbour, close to the George Best Belfast City Airport, approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from the city center.

With its 340-meter-long quay, this terminal is designed to accommodate the world’s largest cruise ships. When there are no passenger ships in port and off-season, this terminal is used for cargo and container ships. There is a small terminal building housing a tourist information center where you can get city maps and brochures. A taxi rank, tour buses, and parking are available outside the terminal.

The port of Belfast is also one of the largest ferry ports serving the routes to Douglas (Isle of Man), Liverpool (England), Birkenhead (England), Cairnryan (Scotland), and a few other ports depending on the season. The majority of ferries are operated by Stena Line, one of the largest ferry companies in the world.

Getting Around & Local Transportation

• Belfast city center is small and can be easily explored on foot.
• The cruise lines normally offer a convenient shuttle service to the Belfast Welcome Center (visitor information centre) on Donegall Square North, located opposite the Belfast City Hall. Tickets should be purchased onboard the ship. A 5-minute walk from there is Victoria Square Shopping Centre, one of the best places for shopping in the city.
• The taxi station is located next to the terminal building. A ride to Belfast city center takes 10 minutes.
• As for public transport , it is available however I will not encourage you to use it as the buses don’t run very often and the closest stop is at the port gate, which is quite a fair walking distance from the dock.
• Belfast’s main railway station is Lanyon Place Train Station (formerly Belfast Central), located near the city center, approximately a 10-minute drive from the cruise terminal. You’ll find the timetables and fares at https://www.translink.co.uk/
• Hiring a bicycle is a fast and cheap way to get around the city since the city is not very big. Belfast Bikes rental has more than 40 pick-up and drop-off points throughout the city. You can rent them for the hour or the day.
• If you want to go sightseeing, Belfast Hop on Hop off bus runs from City Hall and covers stops at the major city highlights including Titanic Dock and Visitor Center, St George’s Market, Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens, Belfast Castle, and others. Book Belfast Hop on Hop off bus tour on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Northern Ireland’s official currency is the pound sterling (£). Local currency and major credit cards are widely accepted.
• Belfast International Airport is located approximately 17 miles/27 km (a 30-minute drive) northwest of the Belfast cruise port.
• Driving in Northern Ireland is on the left-hand side of the road.
• Explore Belfast tours and activities
• Find hotels near Belfast cruise port

10 Best Things to Do in Belfast Cruise Port

The neighborhoods of Belfast boast a rich cultural offer and the city’s turbulent and interesting history is displayed through its art and architecture.

1. Belfast City Hall

The imposing City Hall is perhaps the best-known and most representative building in the city. It was built in 1906 to celebrate the appointment of Belfast as a “City” by Queen Victoria in 1888.

Belfast City Hall offers free 1-hour public tours every day led by a knowledgeable guide who provides information on the history of Belfast City Hall and its finest features. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and visitors must register 10-15 minutes before the tour. Guests with disabilities and limited mobility are welcome.

Check out Belfast City Hall tours and activities

2. Saint Anne’s Cathedral (Belfast Cathedral)

One of Belfast’s most treasured buildings, a beautiful Romanesque cathedral was built in 1899. It boasts magnificent architecture, stone carvings, huge stained-glass windows depicting characters from the Old Testament, and a huge historic significance. The cathedral is located around a 10-minute walk north of the City Hall. It is fully wheelchair accessible.

3. Belfast Castle

Built in the late 12th century by the Normans, the castle was located within the city of Belfast, but after suffering a fire in 1708, only the names of some streets remained that indicate that it was there before. Instead of rebuilding it in the same place, its owners preferred to go to the outskirts of the city and built the new Belfast Castle on the slopes of Cavehill Country Park. The new castle was completed in 1870.

Today the magnificent castle is a private center where banquets, weddings, meetings, and other large events are held. On the castle’s grounds, you can find a beautiful garden and park, an adventure playground, a gift shop, a restaurant, and a visitor center.

The castle is located a 15-minute drive from the port Belfast. To get to Belfast Castle, you can take public bus #1 from Upper Queen Street (located one block away from the City Hall) to Newtownabbey Serpentine Road and from there you need to walk 10 minutes to Belfast Castle.

Check out Belfast Castle tours and activities

4. Titanic Museum

Located in the Titanic Quarter, the same place where the Titanic was built in 1912, this museum is one of the icons of Belfast and one of the main tourist attractions of the city. This gigantic museum opened its doors in 2012 and is completely dedicated to the history of the ship. In 2016, the museum was crowned the best world tourist attraction by the World Travel Awards.

The tour of the museum is an authentic experience that allows you to access over nine galleries where you get to learn about Titanic myths and reality, its launch, Maiden Voyage, and tragic destiny. Enjoy the exploration of the re-created cabins and decks, the Shipyard Ride, and the underwater exploration theater! Belfast Titanic Museum is fully wheelchair accessible.

The driving distance between any of the Belfast cruise terminals and the Titanic Museum is approximately 7 – 10 minutes. If you are coming from the city center to the museum, the distance is approximately 2 miles and takes about 25 minutes on foot.

You can also take bus #94 from Wellington Place in the city center to Odyssey Pavilion, and then a 10-minute walk to the Titanic Museum. It is strongly recommended to purchase tickets in advance as you need to select specific times for the visit.

Check out the Titanic Museum tours and activities

5. Belfast Mural Tour

If you are visiting Belfast, don’t miss the opportunity to visit its famous murals. These mainly represent the history of Northern Ireland during the last decades of the 20th century, a period known as “The Troubles”, one of the most tragic periods in European history at the turn of the century.

The tradition of political murals in Belfast dates back to 1908 when images of King William III began to be painted. This king is highly acclaimed by Protestants due to his victory over the Catholics at the Battle of Boyne in 1690. The murals were not usually permanent and they changed over time, reflecting the political problems of the moment. This is still the case today.

There are about 2000 murals scattered throughout Belfast, but it is in the Falls and Shankill neighborhoods that the most famous are found.

You can tour the murals on foot, but you will need time and desire to walk since the murals are separated from each other. Hiring a taxi is probably the most comfortable and quickest way to do it. A local taxi driver will take you around the main points of these neighborhoods and explain to you the symbols of the murals and what the different murals represent. The Belfast Hop on Hop off buses also stop at some areas where these famous murals are located.

Check out Belfast Mural tours and activities

6. St George’s Market

If your ship docks in Belfast on the weekend, then this is the place to visit if you want to enjoy local cuisine and crafts. Among the stalls of this colorful 19th-century indoor market, you can find practically everything – from fresh fruit and fish to antique items, handmade gifts, and original works by local artists.

The market has numerous places where you can enjoy delicious street food, fresh smoothies, local sweets and so much more. On Sundays, they have live music by local bands. St George’s Market is located in the heart of the city, less than a 10-minute walk from the City Hall and the shuttle bus drop-off point. Hop on Hop off buses also stops at the market.

7. Botanic Gardens

The elaborate public garden was born as a private Royal Belfast Botanical Garden in 1828 and was opened to the public in 1895. It covers 28 acres, and its main feature is an elegant domed conservatory known as “The Palm House”, a greenhouse that can be visited and where you can see various types of tropical plants.

The Botanical Gardens is located around 1.2 miles away from the city center and its City Hall, approximately 25 minutes on foot. A taxi ride from City Hall lasts 5 minutes. Gardens are wheelchair accessible and there are benches all around for visitors will walking difficulties.

Check out Belfast Botanic Gardens tours and activities

8. The Ulster Museum

Situated in the same park as the Botanical Gardens, the Ulster Museum is the largest in Northern Ireland featuring rich collections of art, archeological findings, scientific artifacts, and the treasures of the Spanish Invincible Armada.

Here, visitors can explore 9000 years of Irish culture and history and learn about its turbulent history, traditions and ethnography. Within the museum, there are also zoological, geological, and botanical collections. The entrance is free of charge and provides easy access and exploration for wheelchair users.

9. Giant’s Causeway

You cannot leave Northern Ireland without having visited this natural wonder and one of the biggest tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.

According to the legend, the origin of the Giant’s Causeway is due to two giants, an Irish one named Finn MacCool and a Scottish giant named Bennandoner. They fought each other throwing stones until so many of them were thrown that they formed a path between Ireland and the island of Staffa. Bennandoner crossed it intending to kill Finn, but his wife had the idea of ​​dressing him as a baby. So when Bennandoner arrived and saw such a big baby, he imagined that the baby’s father would be much bigger, so he ran back stomping so hard that he destroyed the stone path they had created leaving only what we can see today.

Declared a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO and a national nature reserve, Giant’s Causeway is one of the strangest geological phenomena on the planet and a unique landscape that you cannot miss. There are two ways to experience the Giant’s Causeway: visit the stones or take a stunning 5-mile (2.5 hours) hike along the thrilling clifftop path.

Clifftop Experience Walk departs from the ruins of Dunseverick Castle along the coastline to the Giant’s Causeway. This experience is recommended for visitors in good health conditions and fitness levels. Wear non-slippery shoes and bring a light jacket .

How to Get to Giant’s Causeway from Belfast Cruise Port?

• Distance from the port of Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway is approximately 62 miles (100 km), about a 1h 30-minute drive each way. The best way to get there is definitely on an organized shore excursion considering the distance and your time in port. I strongly suggest you book this tour in advance because it sells out quickly.
• If you decide to get there on your own, will need to take train 3 from Lanyon Place train station to Coleraine train station, and then hop on bus 402 or 172 to Giant’s Causeway. The journey by train itself takes 1.5 hours, but overall (with a bus and a walking portion included), it can take up to 3 hours each way. Therefore, it’s not recommended for cruise passengers.
• You can also hire a taxi from the port of Belfast, or book a private round-trip transfer which might be a cheaper option.

10. The Crown Liquor Saloon

This gastropub is one of the oldest pubs in Belfast and is worth stopping by for a pint or a succulent meal. The building was built in the Victorian style and is known for its rustic wooden interior decoration featuring carved mahogany booths, etched glass, and gas lamps from the 1800s. It is the most famous pub in Belfast and today it has become one of the symbols of the city because it’s the only pub in the country to be declared a national monument. The pub is located in the heart of the city, only 5 minutes walking distance from the City Hall.

Visit also our cruise port guide to Greenock (Glasgow) , Cork (Cobh) , Holyhead , Dover , Dublin , Invergordon (Inverness) , Amsterdam , Copenhagen , Le Havre

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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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New Cruise Ship Terminal Officially Opens in Belfast

A new cruise ship terminal officially opened in Belfast, Northern Ireland . It is the first dedicated facility of the kind on the island. 

Belfast Harbour invested more than GBP 500,000 on upgrading the quayside facility, that now features a visitor information centre.

According to Joe O’Neill, Belfast Harbour’s CEO, cruise calls to Belfast were up to 148 in 2019, an increase of 31% on 2018 and the investment in a terminal facility would enable them to offer the anticipated 285,000 cruise passengers a positive welcome.

The new cruise terminal is staffed by travel advisers by Visit Belfast and uses the latest audio-visual and digital technology to showcase Northern Ireland’s visitor attractions. It includes space for shuttle buses, taxis, coaches, and a berth that has been dredged to accommodate larger and newer cruise ships.

The port is the 3rd most popular destination in the UK and Ireland for 1-day / mini-cruise calls - after Dublin and Orkney Island.

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Belfast United Kingdom

The port of Belfast is located almost 3km from the centre of Belfast. Most of the large ships dock at Stormont pier. Services at the port are minimal.

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5% to 10% will be appreciated in restaurants and taxis.

GBP British pound

Time difference

from New York: +5h

from San Francisco: +7h

from London: None

Travelling around the Belfast Cruise Port

A free shuttle bus is offered by the municipality every 15 minutes to the centre of the city. A tourist office is located in front of the shuttle stop, near City Hall.

Once in Belfast, it is easy to visit the city on foot. Otherwise, the Metro-bus is efficient and inexpensive.

Activities in Belfast

In the centre of the city, you will find two monuments in memory of the Titanic and its victims.

Belfast Castle

Built in the 1860s, this castle is one of Belfast’s most beautiful landmarks and offers a viewpoint on the city. This castle is set back from the city.

Belfast Cathedral

Impressive both on the outside and inside. See its stained glass windows and mosaic ceiling.

Historical sites

Downpatrick.

The town where St Patrick built its first church and began the conversion of Ireland.

Carrickfergus Castle

Medieval fortress

Titanic Belfast

Opened in 2012, this museum traces the tragic fate of the Titanic.

Antrim Coast

A bus tour will allow you to admire breathtaking scenery. Some trips to Giant Causeway may also include the Antrim Coast

Giant Causeway

UNESCO site on the Nordic coast 2 hours from Belfast. This rock formation consists of some 40,000 hexagonal columns that emerge from the sea and can reach up to 40 feet.

Botanical Garden

Founded in 1827, you will find, among other things, a rose garden and a greenhouse of tropical plants.

Family activities

Belfast zoo.

Red pandas, gorillas, elephants and tigers are waiting for you.

Londonderry

A two-hour bus ride will take you through the scenery, small villages and peaceful fields en route to the walled city of Londonderry.

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Useful References

• Tourism Board - Belfast !
• Tourism Board - United Kingdom
• Belfast on Wikipedia
• United Kingdom on Wikipedia
• Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)
• Port Website

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

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Belfast Cruise Terminal opens in huge boost to tourism as 285,000 visitors expected this year

It is the first dedicated cruise terminal on the island of Ireland and includes a visitor information centre, a dedicated coach park and converted shipping containers which are being used for external seating

• 18:03, 29 JUL 2019
• Updated 19:32, 29 JUL 2019

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The number of cruise ship visitors to Belfast is set to reach 285,000 this year as the first dedicated cruise terminal cements the city's future as a destination port.

Its opening is a huge boost to the industry in Northern Ireland which welcomed just five cruise ships annually in 2000.

This year, 148 cruise ships from 35 different cruise lines are scheduled for Belfast Harbour , an increase of 31% on last year.

The terminal, an investment of £500,000, includes a visitor information centre, a dedicated coach park and converted shipping containers which are being used for external seating.

On Monday, the Cruise Princess sailed into the harbour with more than 3,000 passenger and 1,000 crew members.

Joe O’Neill, Belfast Harbour’s CEO , was instrumental in bringing the original Crown Princess to Belfast in 2001 after being blown away by the ship when he saw it while on holiday in Venice.

Recalling the time, he said: "I thought to myself, this would be fabulous if we could get a ship of that size coming into Belfast, I wonder if we will ever achieve a point when vessels like this, and not the smaller vessels that we currently are getting, will come into Belfast."

He returned to work and sent his contact at the cruise company an email saying it would be great to see the ship in Belfast.

That very day they spoke on the phone after a port had dropped out of the UK schedule and they were asked if Belfast could accommodate the Crown Princess.

Fast forward to today and this year it is the city's most frequent cruise ship visitor and will bring over 51,000 visitors to the city.

Mr O'Neill said the new terminal would help offer passengers "a positive welcome and first impression of the region".

"To help attract more visitors, we’ve also invested in new gangways and luggage scanners which will enable us to market Belfast as an embarkation port," he added.

"Depending on the level of demand locally, this opens up the exciting opportunity for local consumers to join cruises directly from Belfast instead of flying to Southampton or other regional ports.

"Cruise & Maritime has already scheduled a number of departures from Belfast for next summer including Norwegian Fjord and British Isles itineraries. In line with our sustainability ambitions we have also installed wind powered quay lighting for the site and a ‘smart flower’ which will generate solar electricity for the terminal building."

The investment in the terminal represents an important step in the development of the city’s cruise tourism infrastructure.

The new terminal is staffed by Visit Belfast’s travel advisors and utilises the latest digital and audio-visual technology to showcase Belfast and Northern Ireland’s visitor attractions. 

The newly developed site includes the space required to service the shore side activities associated with cruise tourism for coaches, shuttle buses and taxis, and a berth which has been dredged to accommodate newer and larger cruise ships.

Captain Domenico Lubrano-Lavadera, from the Crown Princess , said nearly all passengers chose to get off the ship in Belfast with a third deciding to do a tour, the most popular being around the Giant's Causeway.

He said there was no reason the city could not attract even bigger cruise ships in the future.

He added: "You are a friendly place, a friendly environment with a lot of beauties to show to our passengers, they love the city, they love the Giant's Causeway especially and they come with brochures from the States about this lovely coastline so you have a lot of opportunities if you continue to do the same job you do here with this terminal and this dock, which trust me as a Captain is a pleasure, it is the best in this region."

The Captain, who first visited the city in 1995, joined Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor John Finucane to officially open the cruise terminal this morning.

John McGrillen, CEO Tourism Northern Ireland, said: "Cruise ship visitors contribute footfall to our visitor attractions and provide an opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland to international visitors, many of whom are here for the first time.  Allowing cruise passengers to sample Northern Ireland also provides an effective strategy to encourage and generate repeat visits.

"Our investment in this gateway information centre is part of our growth framework which will support our overall ambition to double the value of tourism to Northern Ireland by 2030."

Last year Cruise Critic named Belfast as one of the best cruise destinations in the British Isles and Western Europe and the Port is now the third most popular destination in the UK and Ireland for one-day cruise ship calls after Dublin and Orkney.

Gerry Lennon, Chief Executive of Visit Belfast added: "Globally, cruise tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors in tourism.  From a standing start of just two ships in the late 90s, we are now welcoming 285,000 cruise visitors to our shores.  This has been down to the sales and marketing efforts of Cruise Belfast and the significant investments in our tourism offering.

"This means that we can fully showcase the wealth of experiences on offer and enable cruise visitors to make the most of their time in Belfast and Northern Ireland."

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New Cruise Terminal Opens in Belfast Harbour

Cruise Belfast – the partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast, has opened the first dedicated cruise terminal on the island of Ireland to cater for Belfast’s growing popularity as a cruise destination.

Belfast Harbour has invested more than £500,000 on upgrading the quayside facility which now includes a Visitor Information Centre, part funded by Tourism NI and managed by Visit Belfast.  This investment represents an important step in the development of the city’s cruise tourism infrastructure. The new terminal is staffed by Visit Belfast’s travel advisors and utilises the latest digital and audio-visual technology to showcase Belfast and Northern Ireland’s visitor attractions.

The newly developed site includes the space required to service the shore side activities associated with cruise tourism for coaches, shuttle buses and taxis, and a berth which has been dredged to accommodate newer and larger cruise ships.

“Cruise calls to Belfast are now up to 148 calls in 2019, an increase of 31% on last year and this investment in a terminal facility will enable us to offer the anticipated 285,000 cruise visitors a positive welcome and first impression of the region.  The new terminal will provide the first dedicated facilities for cruise ships on the island, allowing visitors to quickly connect to Belfast city centre or join one of the many organised excursions tours to a wide range of visitor attractions including the Giant’s Causeway, Hillsborough Castle, Mount Stewart and Titanic Belfast.

“In addition to help attract more visitors, we’ve also invested in new gangways and luggage scanners which will enable us to market Belfast as an embarkation port.  Depending on the level of demand locally, this opens up the exciting opportunity for local consumers to join cruises directly from Belfast instead of flying to Southampton or other regional ports. Cruise & Maritime has already scheduled a number of departures from Belfast for next summer including Norwegian Fjord and British Isles itineraries.   In line with our sustainability ambitions we have also installed wind powered quay lighting for the site and a ‘smart flower’ which will generate solar electricity for the terminal building”

Speaking at today’s launch event, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor John Finucane, said:

The Lord Mayor joined Captain Domenico Lubrano Lavadera of the Crown Princess to officially open the cruise terminal this morning (Monday, 29th July). One of the most popular cruise brands in the world, Princess Cruises have been a long-standing and regular visitor to Belfast.

John McGrillen, CEO Tourism Northern Ireland, said:

In the past three years alone there has been an 82% increase in the number of annual calls. Last year Cruise Critic named Belfast as one of the best cruise destinations in the British Isles and Western Europe and the Port is now the third most popular destination in the UK and Ireland for one-day cruise ship calls after Dublin and Orkney.

Gerry Lennon, Chief Executive of Visit Belfast added:

“This means that we can fully showcase the wealth of experiences on offer and enable cruise visitors to make the most of their time in Belfast and Northern Ireland.”

Northern Ireland’s cruise sector has continued to grow and this year Belfast Harbour is scheduled to welcome a record 148 calls from 35 different cruise lines.  July will be the busiest month with 32 calls including SAGA’s first ever new build vessel, the ‘Spirit of Discovery’. ‘Disney Magic’ will also visit in September, bringing the globally recognised brand to Belfast for the first time.

For more information, contact: Symon Ross, MCE Public Relations 028 9026 7099 / 07827 524 668 [email protected]

Belfast Harbour is a trading company created by statute. It is required to behave commercially and is 100% self-funded.  Its task is to operate, maintain and develop Belfast Harbour assets for the benefit of port customers, other stakeholders and consequently the wider economy. As a Trust Port, all profits are retained and re-invested within the business.

The Harbour’s business focus is upon delivering best-in-class infrastructure, built assets and services to support: •    Exporters and importers as Northern Ireland’s primary gateway to the world and its primary logistics hub •    Ferry and Cruise ship operators •    Companies providing services to shippers and cargo owners •    Estate tenants, both current and prospective

Visit Belfast is a public/private sector partnership funded and supported by Belfast City Council, Tourism NI, strategic partners Diageo NI, Translink, Belfast One and Value Cabs, corporate partners Hastings Hotels, Titanic Belfast and Victoria Square, as well as the private sector. It is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) 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 tourist information centres.

As part of the Cruise Belfast partnership, Visit Belfast is responsible for managing the visitor experience for arriving passengers and crew. When a ship visits the city, Visit Belfast can provide:

Shuttle bus service From the Port to the heart of the city centre, close to the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre on Donegall Square North.

Tourist information Tourist information desk, onboard the ship if required and within the new cruise terminal, staffed by multi-lingual travel advisors. Maps and brochures are all available as well as a daily event listing and shuttle bus timetables.

Further visitor information is available at the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre (9 Donegall Square North), just opposite Belfast City Hall. Opening hours of the centre are extended to cater for cruise ships visiting Belfast.

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City Quays is Belfast’s newest and most modern mixed-use regeneration project, providing commercial offices in City Quays 1 and City Quays 2, shops, cafes, restaurants and other local services and the AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast right on Belfast’s waterfront.

The origins of Belfast Port can be traced back to 1613, when, during the reign of James I, the town was incorporated as a borough by royal charter, with provision for the establishment of a wharf or quay.

Community Awards

Belfast Harbour has opened applications for the 2023 Belfast Harbour Community Awards, with an increased pot of £80,000 available for grass-roots organisations across Northern Ireland.

• Belfast Harbour Police

Estate Access

In order to manage this successfully we request that anyone hoping to film, fly a drone or hold a race within the Harbour Estate, as well as those hoping to use artwork displayed in the Harbour Office or host an event in the Office would fill in the appropriate form and send it back to the e-mail address provided.

Please Note: Dates / Times are as advised by the Cruise Lines and may be subject to change at short notice. Belfast Harbour does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any information contained within this schedule.

Belfast Harbour Commissioners

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Milewater Basin Belfast Northern Ireland United Kingdom BT3 9AA

Office Hours: Mon to Fri – 09.00 to 17.30

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Belfast, Northern Ireland

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Port of Belfast

By Triggertravel , June 22, 2022 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

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Triggertravel

Hi does anybody know how close the titanic museum is to the cruise ship berth,is it within walking distance ? Are there any shuttle buses put on ? Are there taxis ? Any feedback would be very much appreciated ,also other much see sites in Belfast , has anybody done the hop on hop of bus ? 

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Princess are doing loads of cruises around uk this year.

All calling at Dublin and Belfast.

There is lots of information on their Emerald Princess 

roll calls on this site.  I have found them very useful.

The main cruise Dock in Belfast is quite a distance from the main city so as far as I know there are shuttles provided for passengers. The hop on buses are easy to find, in front of the city Hall. I have not been on them myself but I know they cover most of the main tourist attractions. 

The HOHO buses are great and I’d recommend the Crumlin Road Gaol as a must do stop off. 

Host Sharon

The shuttle should drop you off near the HoHo bus office. That will take you to the Titanic museum, as many other iteresting places.

JeanieC,Aston

Was in Belfast a couple of weeks ago on FO,the shuttle bus was £10 and dropped you off in the city centre outside the Tourist Office.

There we’re HoHo buses on the quay,,,,,book on this and get off at Titanic museum.

Before COVID we did a great Belfast tour in a Black Cab,,,the drivers commentary was hilarious and irreverent taking you to places you wouldn’t go on your own.

It is about £40 per cab for a 2.5 hr tour of the Troubles murals and all.

Google Black Cab tours.

They pick you up on the quay and drop you off wherever you want.

We did a free walking tour in Belfast which was absolutely fabulous. Led by someone whose family had been run out of their house, during the troubles, and as a 12/13 year old had devised numerous routes to school to avoid entering the ‘territory’ of the others.  He was also an extra in Game if Thrones, which is a very Big Thing in Belfast. That all sounds a bit heavy but it really wasn’t and it was fascinating for someone who can remember the start and end (please fates 🤞 ) of The Troubles.  There was other interesting, not so political, stuff to see too.

Booked online through the Free Walking Tours website, which I presume still exists - maybe Covid clobbered them.

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CRUISE SHIP EXCURSION FROM BELFAST

Want a hassle-free, all encompassing tour of northern ireland in just one, enjoyable day trip book with finn mccools tours.

Check our FAQs or email to ask now.

Pick up from cruise terminal included

Our bus tour from Belfast collects you right at the cruise terminal and whisks you off to explore the best places to visit in Northern Ireland – the Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Museum, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and more on one of our best value tours!

Titanic Museum (Entrance Included)

From the Belfast Cruise Terminal, we take you to the world-famous Titanic Museum (also known as the Titanic Experience). Spend around 90 minutes at the museum and learn the ship building industry in Belfast. There are interactive galleries, art exhibitions rides and so many more!

Carrickfergus Castle (photo stop)

Built over 800 years ago, Carrickfergus Castle remains one of the best preserved medieval structures in Northern Ireland. It played an important military role over the years and had long been the centre of a power struggle for Irish, English, Scottish and French.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (photo stop)

The Bridge was built traditionally for fishermen to harvest salmon from their nets. Built from the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island over a chasm 23m deep and 20m wide, this is a photo opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Giant’s Causeway

We then journey to the north coast to visit the “8th wonder of the world” – the iconic Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO-listed, world heritage site is characterised by towering hexagonal basalt columns, interlocked to create the unique landscape.

Although scientifically it is said that these columns were created by an ancient volcanic eruption somewhat 60 million years ago, legend has it that our namesake, the giant Finn McCool, created the Causeway as a walkway to meet and conquer his enemy “Benandonner” – a rival giant from Scotland.

Dunluce Castle (photo stop)

Built by the MacQuillan family around 1500 on a dramatic coastal cliffs in Antrim, this iconic castle ruins bears witness to a long history.

Belfast city

After we explore together the beautiful scenery and rolling Irish landscape, we will depart for Belfast – the bustling capital city of Northern Ireland. There is an abundance of things to do in Belfast, from shopping and museums to famous political landmarks and stunning architecture.

Depending on the time, we might stop in Belfast before returning you to the ship.

*Departure and return times vary depending on the arrival and departure time of your ship. Around a week before your tour date, you will receive an email to confirm the pick up time at the dock.

*Please note that all attractions and allocated times are not guaranteed as we have to work around the ship’s schedule and some places might not be visited to make sure that you will be back on time for the ship’s departure.

Pick up At the dock when ship arrives (As we have to wait for the Harbour’s confirmation of the ship’s arrival time, we will send you an e-mail around 1 week before your tour date to let you know the exact pick-up time.)

Drop off At the dock before ship leaves

5 star rating on TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook and other bookings sites

Jim F. 4 months ago My wife and I had a great day out with our guide and driver William he was a very entertaining and knowledgeable chap and as they say in this neck of the woods “his craic was ninety” . Now the weather wasn’t bad for January and Saturday past was dry right up to about 4ish so all the stops were quite pleasant and the scenery outstanding in a wintery fashion. William had a lot of information about everywhere he took us and showed us video clips in relation to the sites and Game of Thrones and a bonus near the end of the tour was a visit to the Bushmills Distillery very nice have no problems in recommending this company and this driver to everyone. Ps. my wife who has a slight walking impediment and was using a cane would like to thank William for his genuine concern about her particular needs and offered welcomed advice and assistance.

Ivana J. 2 months ago We really enjoyed our recent tour to Giant’s Causeways. Our tourguide was William and it was really great. I recommend Finn McCool to everybody visiting Ireland :)

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Shore Excursions for Cruise Ship Visitors

We are delighted to offer shore excursions for cruise ship passengers direct from Belfast Port for visitors arriving in 2020. These shore excursions are brought to you by Belfast City Sightseeing in conjunction with our partners Irish Tour Tickets.

Realising time is limited and the importance of arriving back to Belfast Port on time for departure we use smaller coaches making the tour more personal and easily managed.

We have years of experience in showing you some of the most beautiful parts of planet Earth in our modern, luxury coaches. Every tour is guided by a fully qualified and passionate guide who will ensure that you are enriched and engaged by your visit.

We adjust our times to suit the ships arrival and your bus will be waiting at the port. It is important you leave the ship as soon as it docks.

Our cruise ship passenger guarantee

• We will pick you up from Belfast Port upon your ships arrival
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• You will receive a full refund if your ship cannot dock in Belfast for whatever reason

Option 1 - Giant's Causeway, Carrick-A-Rede & Belfast City Tour from Cruise Ships in Belfast

Full day coach tour includes stops at the giants causeway, carrick-a-rede rope bridge, dunluce castle, belfast city, wall murals, peace walls, international wall and more..., tour itinerary.

• Report to coach after your ship docks (Our drivers and guides will be there to meet you) (Please note, if your ship docks before, or at 8:00am the tour will depart at 8:30am)
• Depart from Belfast Port
• Dunluce Castle (Photo stop)
• Giant’s Causeway
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (Photo stop at viewing point, you will not be able to cross the bridge due to time constraints)
• Famous Antrim Coast Road (Travel through the 9 Glens of Antrim)
• Lunch stop at Cushendall (Time allowing)
• Carrickfergus Castle (Photo stop)
• Return to Belfast City Centre
• Belfast City Tour. (Includes wall murals, peace walls, Falls Road, Shankill Road and more) (Due to time constraints this is not a Hop-on/Hop-off service)
• Return to Belfast Port (Approx. 1 hour before departure)

Giant's Causeway & Belfast City Tour

Option 2 - game of thrones & belfast city tour from cruise ships in belfast, full day coach tour includes taking in the stunning scenery featured as the backdrop in the hbo’s series when you join us for an unforgettable day visiting some of northern ireland's main game of thrones filming locations..

• Report to coach after your ship docks (Our drivers and guides will be there to meet you) (Please note, if your ship docks before 8:00am the tour will depart at 8:30am)
• Depart from Belfast Port (Coach departs 30 minutes after docking)
• Carnlough Village
• Cushendun Caves
• Lunch stop (time allowing)
• Giant’s Causeway (Stay approx. 1 hour)
• Dunluce Castle (Photo Stop)
• The Dark Hedges (The Kings Road)

Game Of Thrones & Belfast City Tour

Option 3 - hillsborough castle & belfast city tour from cruise ships in belfast, managed by historic royal palaces, hillsborough castle is the official residence in northern ireland of her majesty queen elizabeth ll and other members of the royal family when they visit the region. explore the late georgian mansion which was built in the 1770's & take in 96 acres of beautiful gardens developed from the 1760's onwards..

• Report to coach after your ship docks (Our drivers and guides will be there to meet you).
• Depart Belfast Port at 9:15am
• Hillsborough Castle
• Tour of The House
• 1 Hour free time for Castle Gardens
• Belfast City Tour
• Return to ship for approximately 2:00pm
• We can leave passengers at the city centre for free time before the ship sails. Passengers will need to get the ship shuttle or a taxi to return them to the ship.

Hillsborough Castle & Belfast City Tour

Option 3 - giants causeway express & belfast tour, a fully guided, all day tour taking in the giant’s causeway including a belfast city tour specifically tailored to suit individuals, couples and small family groups. it is fully guided and takes in the best of the north antrim coast; in addition, you will experience a belfast city tour, giving you a wonderful overview of our diverse city.

• Report to coach for check-in (Our drivers and guides will be there to meet you)
• Depart from Belfast Port 10.30am
• Giant’s Causeway (Stay approx. 2 hours)

Giants Causeway Express & Belfast City Tour

For any further enquiries email our customer services on [email protected] or give us a call on +44 (0)28 90 321321 .

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New deep-water channel allows first ship to pass Key bridge wreckage in Baltimore

B ALTIMORE (AP) — The first cargo ship passed through a newly opened deep-water channel in Baltimore on Thursday after being stuck in the harbor since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed four weeks ago, halting most maritime traffic through the city’s port.

The Balsa 94, a bulk carrier sailing under a Panama flag, passed through the new 35-foot (12-meter) channel headed for Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. Two more commercial ships followed later Thursday, including a vehicle carrier headed to Panama.

Their long-awaited voyages marked an important step in the ongoing cleanup and recovery effort as crews have been working around the clock to clear thousands of tons of mangled steel and concrete from the entrance to Baltimore’s harbor.

Five vessels that have been stranded for weeks are expected to finally leave Baltimore through the new, temporary channel. Other ships are scheduled to enter the port, which normally processes more cars and farm equipment than any other in the country.

Thousands of longshoremen, truckers and small business owners have seen their jobs impacted by the collapse, prompting local and state officials to prioritize reopening the port and restoring its traffic to normal capacity in hopes of easing the economic ripple effects of the collapse. Officials have also established various assistance programs for unemployed workers and others impacted by the closure.

On Thursday morning, the Balsa 94 moved through the channel guided by two tug boats, one in front and one behind. It glided slowly past the fallen bridge and grounded Dali, the massive container ship that caused the collapse when it slammed into one of the bridge’s support columns.

Pieces of the steel span are still blocking other parts of the port’s main channel, which has a controlling depth of 50 feet (15 meters), enough to accommodate some of the largest cargo and cruise ships on the water.

The Balsa 94 is expected to arrive in Canada on Monday.

The Dali lost power and veered off course shortly after leaving the Port of Baltimore bound for Sri Lanka last month.

Six members of a roadwork crew — all Latino immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras — plunged to their deaths in the collapse. Four bodies have been recovered from the underwater wreckage while two remain missing.

A memorial for the victims near the south end of the bridge has grown in recent weeks. It now includes six large wooden crosses decorated with flags from the victims’ home countries and other personal items, including the hardhats and work boots that allowed them to provide for their families and chase the American dream. A painted canvas backdrop displays abstract scenes from the bridge collapse and salvage efforts as well as handwritten notes from the men’s loved ones.

“We want to send a message to the world that we’re here and we care,” said the artist, Roberto Marquez, who was visiting the memorial late Thursday morning. “We will be here working until they are all recovered.”

The new channel will remain open until Monday or Tuesday and then close again until roughly May 10. During the closure, crews will work to remove steel spans from the deck of the Dali and refloat the ship, which will then be guided back into the port, officials said earlier this week.

The port’s main channel is set to reopen next month after the Dali has been removed from the collapse site. That will allow for a normal flow of traffic to resume through the port.

But for now, the 35-foot depth is a substantial increase over the three other temporary channels established in recent weeks. It puts the cleanup effort slightly ahead of schedule, as officials previously said they hoped to open a channel of that depth by the end of April.

A hulking vehicle carrier named Carmen that is nearly as long as the Dali became the third commercial ship to traverse the channel Thursday afternoon. Viewed from the deck of a nearby passenger boat, it appeared to sail steadily between the marker buoys, dwarfing the cranes, barges and other wreckage removal equipment that was stationed nearby.

Even with commercial ships chugging past, crews continued the arduous process of clearing debris from the collapse site. On Thursday, they were using a crane apparatus to smash the fallen roadway into more manageable pieces that could be lifted from underwater with a giant claw.

In a court filing Monday, Baltimore’s mayor and city council called for the Dali’s owner and manager to be held fully liable for the bridge collapse, which they said could be devastating for the regional economy. They said the port , which was established before the nation’s founding, has long been an economic driver for Baltimore and the surrounding area. Losing the bridge itself has also disrupted a major east coast trucking route.

The filing came in response to an earlier petition on behalf of the two companies asking a court to cap their liability under a pre-Civil War provision of an 1851 maritime law — a routine procedure for such cases. A federal court in Maryland will ultimately decide who’s responsible and how much they owe.

In the meantime, both the FBI and the National Transportation Safety Board are conducting probes to determine what caused the ship to lose power and strike the bridge.

This story was first published April 25, 2024. It was updated April 26, 2024, to correct the destination of a ship. It is Saint John, in New Brunswick, Canada, not St. John.