Northern Ireland Cruises

Explore the Unique Charm of Northern Ireland with Cruise1st

Northern Ireland is a captivating region, full of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known for its rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines, and friendly locals, this part of the United Kingdom is an ideal cruising destination. Did you know that Northern Ireland is home to the famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns? A cruise to Northern Ireland allows you to enjoy breathtaking scenery, delve into history, and explore charming towns, all from the comfort of your floating hotel!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Northern Ireland Itineraries

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America features 2 vessels offering itineraries to Northern Ireland, specifically the Nieuw Statendam and Zuiderdam. Both ships are known for their excellent onboard dining experiences and various enrichment programs tailored to enhance your travel experience. Most cruises depart from Dover or Rotterdam, making it easy for cruisers looking to explore before heading to the picturesque shores of Northern Ireland.
• Princess Cruises: Operating a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 4 vessels that include Northern Ireland on their itineraries. The Regal Princess and Majestic Princess stand out for their variety of dining options and exceptional entertainment offerings. Most of their sailings begin in Southampton or Fort Lauderdale, allowing guests to enjoy the sights of the UK or even tropical environments before arriving in Northern Ireland.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a total of 20 ships, Norwegian features 6 that cruise to Northern Ireland. Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Dawn are notable for their lively, relaxed atmosphere and flexible dining options. The majority of departures are from Southampton or New York, so you can kick-start your journey to Northern Ireland with a visit to some exciting nearby locations!
• Ambassador Cruise Line: This line has 2 ships, both visiting Northern Ireland: Ambition and Ambience. Known for their dedicated service and intimate cruising experiences, Ambassador Cruise Line is perfect for those seeking a more personal touch. They typically depart from Liverpool or Belfast, making it comfortable for cruisers already in Northern Ireland to set sail!
• Carnival Cruise Line: With a fleet of 27 ships, Carnival has 2 sailing to Northern Ireland, specifically Carnival Miracle and Carnival Legend. Renowned for their fun-filled onboard activities and countless family-oriented options, these ships cater to all ages. Most often departing from Dover, these cruises offer an adventure that balances relaxation with fun!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Northern Ireland

• Oceania Cruises: Containing 8 ships, Oceania has 4 that cruise to Northern Ireland, including Vista and Sirena. Famed for their culinary excellence, these ships emphasize gourmet dining options, making each meal an event. Departures generally take place from Southampton or Reykjavik, offering fantastic starting points for hushed adventures along Northern Ireland’s beautiful coastlines.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara features 2 vessels—Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey—offering itineraries to Northern Ireland. The focus here lies in enhancing local experiences with immersive excursions, ensuring guests connect deeply with the culture. Most sailings begin from Dublin or Southampton, allowing for easy access to some of the region's best landscapes and activities.
• Seabourn: Comprising 6 ships, Seabourn boasts 1 vessel that visits Northern Ireland, namely Seabourn Sojourn. Renowned for its luxurious experience, guests can expect personalized service along with exquisite dining options. Departures primarily occur from Greenock or London, providing a chic start to your beautiful Northern Ireland journey.
• Silversea: With a roster of 12 ships, Silversea has 4 that accommodate trips to Northern Ireland, with Silver Wind and Silver Spirit being particularly popular. Known for their luxurious all-inclusive nature, it’s an ideal target for discerning travelers who appreciate top-end service. Departures mainly fall from Copenhagen or Southampton, enhancing your journey before and after visiting Northern Ireland!

Top Harbours to Visit in Northern Ireland

• Belfast: The vibrant capital city boasts a rich history and is famous for attractions such as the Titanic Belfast museum, which tells the story of the city’s maritime heritage. Cruise passengers can explore the historic Cathedral Quarter, indulge in local delicacies at St. George's Market, or take a black taxi tour to learn about the city's cultural history. The welcoming atmosphere here guarantees a wonderful day ashore!
• Londonderry (Derry): Known for its perfectly preserved medieval walls, Londonderry offers a sense of history and culture. Visitors can stroll along the city walls and enjoy scenic views or visit the famous Bogside murals depicting significant local events. As a cruise passenger, try to catch a local music performance for an authentic Northern Irish experience!
• Warrenpoint: As a charming seaside town, Warrenpoint provides a great escape to beautiful beaches and picturesque walks. When visiting, take a leisure walk along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the Mourne Mountains. Cruise guests can also explore local shops and cafés to experience the town's traditional hospitality.

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Northern Ireland

• Southampton, England: Known as a major cruise hub, Southampton is rich in history and maritime relevance. While docked, you can visit the SeaCity Museum to learn about the Titanic’s connection with the city or take a stroll through the city's parks, shopping, and eateries.
• Greenock, Scotland: This bustling port offers a scenic view of the Firth of Clyde. While visiting, passengers can explore the famous Oak Mall for shopping, check out the local maritime museum, or take a short trip to the nearby Port Glasgow for unique historic sites.
• Dover, England: Renowned for the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, the city boasts rich historical sites such as Dover Castle. Spend your time enjoying the local history, visiting the castle, or simply soaking in the views of the English Channel!
• Cobh, Ireland: A picturesque town known for its colourful houses and historic connection to the Titanic. Visitors can explore the charming streets and climb to the St. Colman's Cathedral for a stunning view of the town and harbour.
• Liverpool, England: Home to the fab four, Liverpool is bursting with musical culture and history. Spend the day visiting The Beatles Story, exploring Albert Dock, or enjoying the vibrant waterfront—a great way to kick off your northern journey!

When to Cruise to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is a flexible destination, with exciting offerings year-round! From April to June, enjoy mild temperatures between 10-20°C, perfect for exploring. July and August are the warmest months, peaking around 15-25°C, ideal for outdoor adventures. Autumn (September to November) offers beautiful fall colours with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C, providing a lovely atmosphere minus the summer crowds.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Northern Ireland

The costs for a cruise to Northern Ireland can vary. Expect a week-long cruise to fall between $1,500 and $2,500 AUD, while a two-week cruise may range from $3,000 to $5,000 AUD. For a more luxurious experience, anticipate prices starting at $5,000 AUD for a week and upwards of $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Although many cruise packages include meals, you might find local options cost between $20-$50 AUD for a meal, while drinks can typically run you about $8-$15 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you’re contemplating a cruise to Northern Ireland, consider these captivating alternatives:

• Scotland: With its enchanting landscapes and rich history, Scotland is known for its vibrant culture, whisky tours, and beautiful highlands. Perfect for those keen on exploring outdoors and indulging in local traditions!
• Irish Coast: The stunning cliffs and coastlines of the Emerald Isle are perfect for those seeking adventure, with plenty of historical sites and warm hospitality along the way.
• British Isles: Explore a mix of whimsy, history, and culture across the British Isles, featuring iconic sights, vibrant cities, and historical landmarks that will leave you spellbound!
• Baltic Sea: A fascinating region with rich history, the Baltic Sea combines comfortable cruising with beautiful historic cities such as Copenhagen, St. Petersburg, and Tallinn. It’s ideal for both culture and relaxation seekers!
• Adriatic Sea: This stunning sea boasts a wealth of charm, with picturesque cities like Dubrovnik and Venice, gorgeous islands, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered along the coastline.

Are you ready to dive into the charm of Northern Ireland? Cruise1st is here to help you explore the captivating sites and experiences this region has to offer. Get started on planning the adventure of a lifetime!