belfast harbour tours

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The Voyage of Discovery

Cruise down the River Lagan, see the city sights and learn of Belfast’s rich maritime history

The Perfect Way to Experience Belfast’s Waterfront

Welcome aboard our Lady of The Lagan, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Belfast Waterfront from a unique perspective. Lady Of The Lagan takes you on a leisurely tour of the docks where the Titanic was built, allowing you to relive the historical significance of this iconic shipyard. You can sit back and relax on our seating while listening to live commentary from our knowledgeable crew members, who will guide you through the fascinating stories and landmarks that make up the city’s rich history.

A Relaxing, Guided Tour

As we depart from Donegall Quay Hotel Pontoon at AC Marriott we make our way to the famous Titanic Slipway, where the iconic ship was constructed more than a century ago. You will have the opportunity to take in the awe-inspiring sight of the slipway and learn about the Titanic’s ill-fated voyage. We also sail past HMS Caroline, the last remaining survivor of the Battle of Jutland in World War I. This historic ship is a must-see attraction and offers visitor’s a fascinating insight into naval warfare.

( Hotel used as location reference ONLY).

This scenic and informative journey will take you through some of the most historic and beautiful areas of the city.

As we continue our journey, we sail past Thompson Graving Dock which was the last place where RMS Titanic stood on dry ground.

You will also see the Titanic Distillers located within the Pump House – the first working distillery in Belfast in almost 90 years.

Lady Of The Lagan Tour Route

Experience Belfast’s Waterfront in a whole new way

Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable and friendly crew members will provide you with fascinating insights into Belfast’s history, culture, and traditions. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of Belfast Harbour on this unforgettable River tour with Lady Of The Lagan, Belfast.

90 minute Experience 

Welcome aboard Lady Of The Lagan, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Belfast Waterfront from a unique perspective.

Private Hire

Celebrations/ Corporate Hire

In addition to our regular tours, Lady Of The Lagan can also be hired for private functions, accommodating up to 50 guests, fully licensed bar available on board.

Tours will depart at 12:00 and 14:00 Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 1st Oct – 15th February.

From March 1st, we will operate Wednesday to Sunday until 31st May but during that period we will also operate 18th March on St Patricks Day, 1st and 2nd April Easter Monday and Tuesday 6th May and 27th May both Bank Holidays.

From 1st June to 1st September 2024 we will operate 7 days a week – 3 sailings at 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00.

Private Hire is available 18:00 but if there are requests for during the day, those will be considered upon request. Please contact us for more details.

https://maritime-mile.com/tours-activities/waterways-belfast-boat-tours/

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Lady of the Lagan – Titanic Boat Tours

Enjoy a breath-taking view of Belfast Waterfront from a unique perspective. Our passenger vessel takes you on a leisurely tour of the docks where the Titanic was built, allowing you to relive the historical significance of this iconic shipyard. You can sit back and relax on our comfortable seating while listening to live commentary from our knowledgeable crew, who will guide you through the fascinating stories and landmarks that make up the city’s rich history.

Waterways are currently not taking bookings, so please contact them directly for updates.

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Welcome Aboard!

Boat Tours in Belfast!

Be lfast’s history is intertwined with the water that

flows through it. 

The River Lagan brought life to the banks of Belfast and today we bring you the opportunity to enjoy life on the river.

Be it with friends, colleagues or family, Ahoy Belfast has room for 45 guests and gives you a new perspective of the city. It lets you explore this famous watercourse, its history and wildlife, all while enjoying time on the water and even some tasty food and drink

Join Ahoy Belfast and head Up the Lagan on a boat tour with us!

What we do...

Many of us have witnessed the ever changing landscape of the River Lagan, be it spring time with swans meandering along or the twinkling cityscape of the ever growing development along its banks... but few of us have made it on to the water. Now is your chance! 

Join us as head up the River Lagan on a boat tour of Belfast to enjoy this much loved, often sung about, stretch of water in our city.  

You’ll join us at the Lagan Weir to meet the crew and hop aboard to hear the history of our boat and the waterway that gave Belfast its name.  We cruise for up to 2 hours as we travel towards the newest weir at Stranmillis in South Belfast.  We’ll pass under historic bridges, see notable buildings and sculpture, as well as getting an up close view of the wildlife along the way.

We offer a selection of different packages to enjoy on your Belfast boat tour, so take a look at our packages here.

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Waterways Belfast

Description.

The perfect way to experience Belfast’s Waterfront

• The Big Fish

Top Reasons To Visit

• Cruise on Belfast’s Waterfront
• Hear about the Titanic, Harland and Wolff and Seal Colony
• Unique experience from the Big Fish
• Private Hire available
• Suitable for all and wheelchair accessible

Tours depart at:

Admission Prices

• Adult – £25
• Child – £15
• Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) – £70

Private hire available on request.

Contact Details

Current opening hours.

• Monday 10:00-18:00
• Tuesday 10:00-18:00
• Wednesday 10:00-18:00
• Thursday 10:00-18:00
• Friday 10:00-18:00
• Saturday 10:00-18:00
• Sunday 10:00-18:00

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Small Group Day Tours

• Cliffs of Moher Tour from Dublin
• Giant's Causeway Tour from Dublin
• Blarney Castle Tour from Dublin
• Small Group Shore Excursions
• Shore Tour from Dublin
• Shore Tour from Cork
• Shore Tour from Belfast

Private Day Tours

• Private Giant's Causeway Tour
• Private Cliffs of Moher Tour
• Private Kilkenny & Wicklow Tour
• Private Galway & Connemara Tour
• Private Blarney & Cork Tour
• Private Belfast Tour
• Private Powerscourt & Glendalough Tour
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Private Multi Day Tours

• 2 Day Southern Ireland
• 2 Day Northern Ireland
• 2 Day Western Ireland
• 2 Day County Kerry
• 3 Day Southern Ireland
• 3 Day Northern Ireland
• 4 Day Southern Ireland
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• 15 Day All Ireland Tour
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Private Shore Excursions

• Private Dublin Shore Excursion (Wicklow)
• Private Half- Day Dublin Shore Excursion (Wicklow)
• Private Cork Shore Excursion (Blarney)
• Private Belfast Shore Excursion (Giants Causeway)

Golf Tours of Ireland

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Small Group Shore Tour from Belfast

• Small Group Tours

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Your journey at a glance

Departs belfast cruise ship terminal.

08:00 (or 30 minutes after docking for later arrivals). Your tour starts in style as you climb aboard a luxury small group van. Meet & greet with your driver and fellow passengers. Together we'll make our way inland through the beautiful Glens of Antrim.

Northern Ireland coastal drive

Our journey to Giant's Causeway takes us along the Causeway Coast, an area of outstanding beauty and characterized by cliffs overlooking white sandy beaches, world famous golf courses and on clear days – views of Scotland across the water.

Giant's Causeway

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly Giant's Causeway. 40,000 columns of hexagonal rock cascade spectacularly from the cliffs to the sea where they disappear before resurfacing on a Scottish island. In recent decades scientists have found that the structures were formed by volcanos some 60 million years ago. Although, we prefer the story of how the causeway was built in ancient times by the mythological giant Finn McCool. Join us on tour to learn the full story from locals in the know! You'll have ample time to explore this World Heritage Site with shuttle buses available for those who prefer not to walk up the steep slope to the Causeway (small charge payable locally). NB: Your (small group) ticket includes the £8 entrance fee for the Giants Causeway Visitor Centre (lunch may be had at the Visitor Centre or in a number of different towns depending on our departure time from the boat).

Dunluce Castle (photo stop)

Before we turn for Belfast, we'll stop at the nearby Dunluce Castle. Due to time constraints there is only time for photos at the spectacular ruins but you'll have time to ramble around and get some great shots of the fortress crumbling from the cliffs into the Atlantic below. Ask your driver about the tragedy that befell the castle in the 1600s when the cliffside collapsed during a banquet and took many of the kitchen staff with it.

Belfast City

This afternoon we'll return to Belfast well before the boat departs. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Northern Ireland's premier city with highlights including Queen's University, Victorian City Hall, Prince Albert Memorial Clock, St. Anne's Cathedral and river Lagan. If your departure time allows you'll have time for extended sightseeing and shopping. NB: If your ship is leaving relatively early we will have to alter the itinerary to get everyone back on time.

Return to cruise ship

Normally cruise ships depart Belfast late- evening. If this is the case, you can expect to return to the boat after approximately 7 hours on tour. If the boat is leaving earlier we will amend the itinerary as necessary.

• We collect passengers from the cruise ship at 07:30 for departure @ 08:00. Where your ship docks later than 07:30 the tour will begin 30 minutes after disembarkation commences. - Belfast Cruise Ship Terminal

You will receive your ticket (featuring your booking number) via email immediately at time of booking. There is no need to print the ticket. If you wish, you can simply show it on your phone or tablet.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation.

• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour's start time.
• If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour's start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour's start time will not be accepted.
• Cut-off times are based on the local time in Ireland.

The Giants Causeway & North Antrim Coast 7-Hour Tour

Immerse yourself in an epic 7-hour journey that takes you from the heart of Belfast to the enchanting corners of Northern Ireland. From ancient tree tunnels and majestic coastlines to whiskey tasting at the world's oldest distillery, every moment promises a new revelation.

Tour Highlights

The Dark Hedges

Carrick-A-Reed Rope Bridge

Ballintoy Harbour

White Park Bay

Dunservrick Castle Ruins

Giant's Causeway

Causeway Hotel

Bushmills Town

Dunluce Castle

Bushmills Distillery

1. Dark Hedges - Departing from Belfast, we travel along the motorway, making our way to Ballymena. We then turn off at Armoy and venture through picturesque countryside scenery until we reach the iconic Dark Hedges tree tunnel. These magnificent beech trees, dating back over 300 years, create an enchanting tree tunnel that has become a popular attraction and was even featured on HBO's Game of Thrones. Prepare to be amazed by this natural phenomenon.

2. Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge view point - Our next stop is the famous Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge view point only. A 17th-century bridge suspended almost 100m above the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy breathtaking views of Rathlin, Carrick-A-Rede Island, and the Scottish Isles. ** Please note that tickets must be purchased in advance if you wish to cross the bridge, and additional time would need to be added to the tour on request to accommodate this thrilling experience **

3. Ballintoy Harbour - Continuing along the scenic North Antrim Coastal Road, we arrive at the picturesque Ballintoy Harbour. This charming harbour is known for its rugged rocks, lime caves, and stunning coastal views. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of this serene location.

4. White Park Bay Viewing Point - Experience impressive views of the golden sandy beach along the North Atlantic Coast at White Park Bay Viewing Point. Let the captivating coastal scenery invigorate your senses.

5. Dunseverick Castle Ruins - Visit the historic ruins of Dunseverick Castle, perched on the Causeway coastline. Although much of the castle has been lost to time, the remains provide a unique glimpse into the past.

6. The Giant's Causeway - Prepare to witness Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site and the eighth wonder of the world - The Giant's Causeway. Marvel at the awe-inspiring hexagonal rock formations, a result of volcanic activity and have your own Finn McCool moment. Please remember to purchase tickets in advance to enter the visitors' centre. ** Tickets are not needed to visit the stones and we can show you the free way to do this but the Car Parking is charged at £10.00 paid locally ** A shuttle bus is also available at  certain times of the day at a cost of £1 each way paid locally and saves you around 40 minutes walking without missing any of the scenery **

7. The Causeway Hotel - Enjoy a delicious lunch break at The Causeway Hotel, an 18th-century establishment brimming with character. Indulge in hot food and drinks, with their delicious scones being a particular favourite.(NOT included in the price) If you would prefeer to bring a lunch on the go this is fine also and would give you more time to explore.

8. Bushmills Town - Explore the beautiful Bushmills Town, home to a variety of shops and cafes. Take a moment to browse for souvenirs to commemorate your day (time permitting).

9. Dunluce Castle Viewing Point - Marvel at the stunning view of Dunluce Castle, perched atop the cliffs of the North Coast. Built-in the 1500s, this castle has a rich history. Please note that tickets must be purchased in advance to enter the ruins, and additional time will need be added to the tour to accommodate this stop.

10. Bushmills Distillery - Conclude your tour at the world's oldest licensed distillery, the renowned Bushmills Distillery, which has been producing whiskey since 1608. Enjoy some time to explore and shop, and if time permits, indulge in a whiskey-tasting experience at your own expense. We  wouldn't have time to take the acutal tour of the distillery on this tour although time permitting you could purchace more time and tickets if required.

Relax in Style and Comfort

After a jam-packed day filled with sightseeing, relax in style and comfort as we return you to your pickup point. The return journey to Belfast takes approximately 75 minutes, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the incredible sights you've experienced.

Please note that this tour is approximately 7 hours long (excluding ticketed events), and the duration may vary depending on factors such as weather, queuing, and mealtimes. However, we will make the most of our time together and ensure a memorable experience. This tour can be adjusted to suit your preferences, and additional time can be added if needed. We also offer Full Game of Thrones tours, golfing tours, and tours of other areas across Northern Ireland.

How long is the tour?

Approximately 7 hours, excluding ticketed events.

Are advance tickets needed?

Tickets are only needed, for attractions like Carrick-A-Reed Rope Bridge crossing over, Giant's Causeway visitor centre (NOT THE STONES), and to enter Dunluce Castle but on this 7 hour tour its unlikely you would have time to enter these.

Can the tour be adjusted or add more time?

Absolutely! Let us know your preferences, and we'll customise the experience for you.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?

Yes, we can provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles on request and there is as much or as little walking as you wish. Also during peak hours, a bus runs to and from the Giant's Causeway stones at an additional cost of £1.

Tailored Experiences: Looking for something more? We also offer dedicated Game of Thrones tours, golfing adventures, and explorations across Northern Ireland. Drop us a message to craft your perfect day.

Book Your Unforgettable Adventure Today!

Phone: +44(0)7732961974

Email: [email protected]

Whatsapp: +447802902296

Welome to Belfast Mic Tours

Unique guided tours of Belfast and Northern Ireland

90 min walking tour

Belfast walking tour.

Discover 400 years of history on this Belfast Walking Tour, hear the stories of the city’s maritime/industrial heritage and political/religious upheavals.

90 min cycling tour

Belfast cycling tour.

Join this unique Belfast cycling tour as we uncover the story of the city’s growth from small 17th Century settlement to ‘powerhouse’ of the British Empire.

Ballynafeigh

A fascinating journey through the history of Ballynafeigh from its origins, through significant architecture and events, to its current place in modern Belfast.

Lagan Legends

Walk along one of the world’s most renowned maritime areas and learn how the story of Belfast Harbour gave rise to the greatest of Lagan Legends, RMS Titanic.

Antrim Town

Enjoy a walk through historic Antrim Town, hear stories of its origins and some of its unique social history.

Step-on Guided Tour

Belfast coach tour, causeway coach tour.

Discover our wide range of walking destinations around Northern Ireland.

See more of Belfast with a unique cycling tour of the city in this fully emersive tour.

Enhance your coach tour with a highly  knowledgeable blue badge g uide.

Belfast CITY Centre

A guided walking tour along the River Lagan and the city centre, where you will hear the fascinating stories of the Belfast’s maritime/industrial heritage and political/religious upheavals.

}    Duration 90 mins     Starts at ‘The Big Fish’, Belfast     Walking Mic Tour     COVID-19 precautions in place

Based on min. 4 people

Lagan Legends Cycling Tour

A unique cycling tour of Belfast which uncovers the fascinating story of the city’s meteoric growth from a small 17th Century settlement to a ‘powerhouse’ of the British Empire by the start of the 20th Century.

}    Duration 90 mins     Starts at ‘The Big Fish’, Belfast     Cycling Mic Tour     COVID-19 precautions in place

Based on min. 2 people

Lagan Legends Walking Tour

Discover the heritage and history of one of the world’s most historic maritime areas, along the River Lagan from the Lagan Weir to the Thomson Dry Dock.

A compelling tour of the landmark buildings, significant events and stories of the people  who helped shape the character of this  fascinating part of South Belfast.

}    Duration 90 mins     Starts at Ormeau Park, Belfast     Walking Mic Tour     COVID-19 precautions in place

Learn about the origins of Antrim Town, hear stories of the founding family the Clotworthy/Masereene’s, walk in the footprints of the 1798 United Irishmen and hear how the famous ‘Battle of Antrim’ unfolded.

}    Duration 90 mins     Starts at Clotworthy House, Antrim     Walking Mic Tour     COVID-19 precautions in place

This memorable Causeway Coast Coach Tour, along one of the world’s most renowned coastal routes, explores folklore, tales of ancient battles, myths and legends.

   Half day or full day    Daily – please check for availability     Depart Belfast

A panoramic Belfast Coach tour, visiting some of the city’s famous locations and landmarks, featuring stories and interpretations of Belfast’s complex and turbulent past.

Tailor-Made Tours

As experts in the industry, Belfast Mic Tours are able to offer a tailor-made tour service to suit your own or your group’s specific interests, abilities or schedule.

Based on min. 4 people

Tailor Made Tours

Happy customers.

“I really enjoyed the experience of learning some local history. The tour guides were great fun as well, I highly recommend it.”

November 2020

“This was a really informative and enjoyable tour. I had reservations as to how this could work with proper distancing. The sound quality provided by the radio equipment was superb so there were no issues. Both guides, Rory and Donal, we’re knowledgeable and engaging. I would definitely recommend this tour.”

“Thank you for your wonderful tour. I am fascinated by the whole story of the building of the Titanic. This was an amazing peek into the building and launching of the Titanic. Thank you! I may have to do it a second time to take in more.”

“I didn’t realise that when I joined Donal’s tour tonight I would end up saying wow so many times! What a stunning hotel & Donal gave us all a wonderful tour around it sharing stories, facts & information. Looking forward to visiting Belfast in real life soon & now know where I’ll be staying!”

“I caught Donal’s tour with my nine and eleven year old daughters. They are obsessed with all things Titanic and they thoroughly enjoyed this. He held their interest and touched on many different topics regarding Belfast. They can’t wait for Part 2!”

“This was a wonderfully done tour into some harrowing history. The details (like the dimensions of the ship, lifeboats and stacks) were extremely well presented. Donal was a caring and warm guide who answered questions patiently. Looking forward to more tours with him!”

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Ireland - UK - British Isles Cruise Ports

Belfast (Northern Ireland)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Ireland - UK - British Isles

Local Time 2024-09-29 18:30

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 tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

• 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.

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Luxury cruise ship passengers find love while marooned in Belfast

Luxury cruise passengers who have been marooned in Belfast for four months are hoping to hit the seas this week.

The worldwide voyage of the Villa Vie Odyssey has been long set back, leaving its guests stuck exploring Northern Ireland instead.

Cruisegoers could avail of offered rental segments varying from 35 to 120 days, or purchase villas ranging from £90,000 to £260,000.

Owning a villa on board guarantees the room for a minimum of 15 years, but the ownership stays valid for the entire operation of the ship.

The ship’s eventual passengers hope to board on Monday, beginning their life at sea soon thereafter.

In the meantime, the would-be voyagers have fallen in love with Belfast, and each other.

Both were looking forward to an adventure at sea but were not looking for a relationship.

The pair started walking through Belfast on their way to and back from the ship, before realising how compatible they were.

Mr Perroni said the two are “made for each other”, adding: “We found our soulmates.”

With love blossoming in Northern Ireland, the pair recently announced their engagement following a proposal on the Lagan Weir Bridge under a supermoon.

Ms Harsanyi, who says she loves Mr Perroni from the bottom of her heart, added: “I can’t imagine spending another day of my life without him.”

On being unexpected waylaid in Northern Ireland, Mr Perroni quipped: “I don’t think we’d consider it stranded as much as … marooned?”

He said the Villa Vie Residences company has been “great and diligent” in making sure the vessel is safe and ready, as well as covering their expenses during the extended shore excursion.

Ms Harsanyi said visiting Belfast for the first time has been “absolutely lovely”, with the pair, who got matching tattoos to commemorate their time in the city, almost ready to start giving their own tours after soaking up the central area.

“We enjoy the people, the pubs, the architecture, and a lot of the nature around here.”

She adds: “The hospitality and the kindness has been awesome.”

Mr Perroni, who is half Irish, said they have been able to travel around Northern Ireland to destinations like the Giant’s Causeway: “I don’t think we could have picked a better place to end up. It is always going to be close to our heart.”

However, he admits: “We’ve enjoyed the pubs – my liver is crying a little bit.”

Ms Harsanyi, who is also travelling with her sister, is looking forward to the cruise’s community outreach programme around the world.

Mr Perroni, who has spent the last six years in Costa Rica, said the idea of the cruise “really struck a chord” with him.

He is able to continue his work on board “while seeing the world”.

The ship’s captain will marry the new couple as part of a “gigantic wedding” on board in April, between Costa Rica and Panama.

“It was an arduous four-month process but we get to board on Monday and then we get to perpetually sail around the world.”

She reflects fondly on her time in Belfast: “What you lack in warmth of temperature, the people make up for.

“It has been a remarkable experience.”

As for the delay, she believes the cruise will be “worth the wait.”

She paid 329,000 US dollars (£275,000) for her balcony mini-suite: “I’m going to be incredibly comfortable.”

She added: “When I see her (the Odyssey), my heart goes pitter-patter. I have a genuine affection for this ship.”

At Ms Hennessy’s side is her yachting companion, Captain “the cruising kitty”.

The Siamese cat is used to life on deck, having spent every winter of his eight-year life on a boat.

However, Ms Hennessy knows that hotels are not always accommodating of pets.

Therefore, as part of what she describes as a “generosity of spirit” in the city, she said the Europa Hotel and others have been “heroes” by creating exceptions for Captain.

“I’m abundantly grateful for what could have been a much worse situation for me – and Captain!”

The cat has made friends all over Belfast, even being invited to the Lord Mayor’s office.

Ms Hennessy, who said Belfast was her favourite part of the island when she last toured Ireland five years, said her shipmates are renting out three “beer bikes” as part of their last full day in the city.

“We are going to make a grand statement saying goodbye to 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.

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A Gateway To Opportunity

Belfast Harbour is Northern Ireland’s principal maritime gateway and logistics hub, serving the Northern Ireland economy and increasingly that of the Republic of Ireland. 

Our purpose is to provide the region with a best-in-class Port to meet current and emerging market requirements and to develop the Estate as a key economic hub and iconic waterfront for Belfast to drive our income from trade, tradeable services and tourism.

Belfast Harbour’s real estate land holding extends to some 2,000 acres, strategically located at the focal point of the city’s transport infrastructure. This land bank represents some 20% of the Belfast City area.

The Marina can handle recreational vessels up to 15m LOA and a maximum draught of 4.0m. Vessels greater than 4m draught or 15m length overall wishing to visit Belfast should contact the Harbour Master’s Office prior to arrival.

History & Heritage

2022 marks the 175th anniversary of establishment of Belfast Harbour Commissioners however, the origins of the 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.

Belfast Harbour Community Awards offers £50k fund to support projects across Northern Ireland

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