Northern Ireland Cruises

Northern Ireland is a land of stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich history, offering an incredible gateway for cruise enthusiasts. Known for its breathtaking coastlines, including the famous Giant’s Causeway, and its bustling capital, Belfast, this region promises adventures and experiences for everyone. Did you know that Northern Ireland is famous for its whiskey and has some of the finest golf courses in the world? With a cruise, you can taste local delicacies, explore historical sites, and enjoy breathtaking views—all while relaxing in luxury onboard your ship!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Trips to Northern Ireland

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America offers 2 vessels sailing to Northern Ireland, specifically the Nieuw Statendam and Zuiderdam. Both ships are known for their elegant dining options and enriching onboard activities. Most cruises to Northern Ireland depart from Dover or Rotterdam, providing cruisers ample choice for their voyage towards the stunning landscapes of Northern Ireland.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line has a fleet of 17 ships with 4 offering itineraries to Northern Ireland. The Regal Princess and Majestic Princess are highlighted for their spacious decks and diverse entertainment options onboard. Departures for these cruises typically happen from Southampton or Fort Lauderdale, allowing easy access for travellers ready to explore.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With 20 ships in total, 5 of them venture to Northern Ireland, notably the Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Prima. Known for their casual, freestyle cruising experience, these ships offer plenty of fun-filled activities and exceptional dining. Departures most frequently occur from Southampton or New York, giving cruisers a fantastic launch point for their adventures.
• P&O Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 7, P&O has 3 ships sailing to Northern Ireland, including the Arcadia and Aurora. Both ships offer a classic British cruise experience with elegant dining and luxurious accommodation. Most cruises depart from Southampton, making it convenient for local cruisers.
• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet of 16, Celebrity has 1 ship, the Celebrity Eclipse, that offers itineraries to Northern Ireland. This ship is known for its modern luxury and incredible service. Departures mainly occur from Amsterdam, allowing cruisers to explore the charm of Northern Ireland after an enjoyable European experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Northern Ireland

• Oceania Cruises: This premium cruise line has a total fleet size of 8, with 4 of their ships offering itineraries to Northern Ireland. Vista and Sirena are renowned for their gourmet cuisine and enriching onboard programs, ensuring an upscale cruising experience. Departures most frequently take place from Southampton or Dublin, offering excellent options for a seamless journey.
• Seabourn: This luxury line boasts a fleet of 6, with the Seabourn Sojourn sailing to Northern Ireland. Known for its intimate atmosphere and high crew-to-guest ratio, Seabourn promises luxury at its finest. Departures are commonly from ports such as Greenock or London, facilitating convenient access to Northern Ireland’s treasures.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4, Azamara has 2 ships—Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest—visiting Northern Ireland. Renowned for immersive, longer port stays, Azamara allows you to dive into the local culture fully. Departures commonly occur from Dublin or Southampton, making it easy to embark on your exploration of this stunning region.
• Silversea: Silversea has a total fleet of 12, with 3 ships sailing to Northern Ireland. Ships such as Silver Spirit and Silver Dawn offer an ultra-luxurious experience, focusing on exceptional service and fine dining. Departures typically happen from Southampton or Copenhagen, enhancing your journey through this picturesque destination.

Top Harbours to Explore in Northern Ireland

• Belfast: The capital and largest city, Belfast is rich in history. Visit the iconic Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum dedicated to the infamous RMS Titanic shipyard. Alternatively, explore the stunning murals that tell the city’s story. For a taste of local culture, delve into St. George’s Market, where you can sample delicious local foods and shop from local artisans!
• Greenock: Located along the picturesque Firth of Clyde, Greenock is an ideal port to explore Scotland‘s beauty. Visit the nearby Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park for breathtaking panoramic views and serene nature walks, or take a short ferry ride to the island of Bute to explore its charming villages.
• Dun Laoghaire (Dublin): This lovely coastal town serves as a gateway to Dublin, where you can explore historical sites like Dublin Castle and Trinity College with its stunning library. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and soak in the atmospheric surroundings.
• Cobh: This charming harbour town is known for its colourful buildings and rich maritime history. Cobh is the last port of call for the Titanic, and you can visit the Titanic Experience to learn more about its poignant story. Explore the scenic views from St. Coleman’s Cathedral, offering stunning vistas over the harbour.
• South Queensferry: Positioned near Edinburgh, South Queensferry boasts stunning views of the famous Forth Rail Bridge. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or hop on a short bus ride to explore the historic attractions of Edinburgh, including the Edinburgh Castle and stunning architecture.

When to Cruise to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland enjoys a temperate maritime climate, making it a splendid cruising destination throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures generally range from 5°C to 10°C, making it a lovely time for peaceful explorations without the summer crowds. April to June brings slightly warmer weather, averaging between 8°C to 16°C, perfect for discovering scenic landscapes. By July to September, the temperatures rise to a comfortable 10°C to 20°C, making it the ideal period for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Finally, October to December sees temperatures dip again, ranging from 6°C to 15°C—still perfect for enjoying the cozy local festivities during the festive season.

Cost of a Cruise to Northern Ireland

The cost for a one-week cruise to Northern Ireland typically ranges from $1,300 to $2,500 AUD, depending on the cruise line and chosen accommodations. For a luxury experience, cruises may go up to $3,800 to $6,500 AUD for similar itineraries, providing a top-notch experience with exceptional services.

On the local dining front, meals at restaurants generally cost between $15 to $30 AUD, while enjoying drinks will run you about $5 to $12 AUD for a local beer or glass of wine. Whichever experience you choose, Northern Ireland offers great value for exploring its unique charm!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re considering expanding your cruising horizons beyond Northern Ireland, check out these alternative regions:

• Scotland – Known for its rugged coastlines and stunning highlands, Scotland offers a wealth of history and breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to explore castles, lochs, and vibrant cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.
• Ireland – Embrace the lush landscapes and rich culture of Ireland, where you can explore the Wild Atlantic Way and visit historical sites that are simply enchanting.
• Canary Islands – If you’re looking for warmer weather, the Canary Islands offer beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a unique blend of cultures that are perfect for any traveller.
• Norwegian Fjords – Uncover stunning natural beauty with dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages that make for unforgettable moments.
• Western Caribbean – Experience vibrant cultures and exquisite beaches, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure that is hard to resist!

Whether you’re ready to embark on a memorable journey through Northern Ireland or considering another spectacular destination, Cruise1st provides great options to satisfy your adventurous spirit. Book your cruise today and get ready for an incredible experience full of scenic beauty and rich culture!