Cruises from Belfast, Such a place is Ireland which is frequently disregarded by UK cruisers despite being nearby. Many British people’s exposure to Ireland is restricted to a long weekend spent in Dublin or possibly a visit to the country’s well-known tourist attractions, including the Ring of Kerry. Many well-known cruise companies travel to Ireland, but they typically only stop in Dublin and Belfast, leaving little time to explore the island’s rich culture, heritage, and scenic beauty. One of the pleasures of small-ship traveling is that it may provide a fresh perspective on well-known locations, bringing you to secret harbors, far-flung islands, and surprising delights that you would not even be aware of were there. Continue scrolling to know more about the cruises from Belfast and Ireland.
Here are some of the best cruises from Belfast:
1. Cruises to Hebridean Islands
With this island-hopping route that unites the southern Hebrides with Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, the eccentric small Hebridean Princess makes a rare venture across the Irish Sea in September 2021. On a round-trip excursion from Oban, you’ll visit the Titanic Museum in Belfast, stroll through the sumptuous gardens at Mount Stewart, and cruise the stunning Strangford Lough.
2. Waterford Cruise Port
Waterford, the oldest city in Ireland, serves as a gateway to the country’s southeast. It is older than other Irish cities like Dublin, and Galway, and cruises from Belfast, and Cork as it was founded by the Vikings in the mid-900s. This city boasts a multitude of cultural districts and is located at the head of Waterford Harbour. It comprises the Viking Triangle, which is the region that was first inhabited by Vikings and protected by defenses in the form of a triangle.
3. Belfast, Northern Ireland
One of the biggest cities in the Irish Isle is Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. The cruises from Belfast, which was once the epicenter of sectarian conflict, have undergone a significant makeover and today feature both symbols of its turbulent past and extremely modern buildings. Tour the city’s historically contentious areas and observe political graffiti along Shankill Road and Fall Road, or visit the Titanic Quarter, the actual site where the Titanic was built. Belfast, a significant port city, features a lively waterfront surrounded by pubs and restaurants that are interesting to explore.
Belfast is very much a British metropolitan city, with a vibe akin to Edinburgh’s or even London’s. In contrast, its Victorian architecture and British pubs reassure you that this is, in fact, a part of the United Kingdom. It does, however, have some of that indisputable Irish charm you’ll find in Dublin or Cork. Belfast’s proximity to picturesque coastline landscapes and historic ruins contributes to its popularity as a port of call on Ireland cruises. Visit breathtaking locations like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Old Bushmills Distillery, and the charming Dunluce Castle on a tour of the magnificent Antrim Coast.
4. Cruises from Belfast Port
One of the busiest and largest ports on the Irish Isle, Belfast Harbour, welcomes cruises from Belfast. It is situated where the Lagan River drains into the Irish Sea near the mouth of the river. Whether you’re on a huge cruise ship or a smaller ship will determine where you land. Stormont Port, Belfast’s longer cruise ship dock, is used by large cruise ships, while Pollock Dock is used by smaller cruise ships. These cruise terminals are situated 2 to 3 miles away from the heart of Belfast. From the Belfast cruise port, shuttle buses run to the Belfast Welcome Center, which is close to the spectacular Belfast City Hall.
5. Saga
Customers at Mundy have been raving about Saga’s new 999-guest Spirit of Discovery, which is an excellent option for single travelers. The all-inclusive tickets on this round-trip sailing from Southampton in June 2021, which includes house pickup and travel insurance, offer exceptional value for money. The itinerary includes calls at Bantry, Killybegs, and Waterford.
6. Moon River Cruises
This voyage has a unique side and begins at Carrick on Shannon. This cruise offers a terrific mood while letting you take in the sights as you travel down Shannon’s shoreline. It has a luxury saloon with a small dance floor and onboard entertainment.
7. Royal Canal Day Cruise
This tour combines a walking tour and a canal boat, which makes it one of the best river cruises in Ireland and a fantastic opportunity to learn about the nation’s capital. Before embarking on your river boat from the 12th lock of the canal to the Deeping Sink and returning, take a walking tour of the inner city. There will be lots of entertainment, beverages, and snacks available.
8. Viking Ireland Tours
This Viking-themed cruise, which departs from Athlone and is great for families and history fans, provides kids the chance to dress up as Vikings for the day while cruising aboard a Viking model boat. Adults may find the history of the Vikings fascinating and may also enjoy exploring Clonmacnoise’s circular tower and monastic hamlet.
Conclusion
Many more options are available on a small ship cruise to Ireland and cruises from Belfast, ranging from itineraries with lots of ports that combine Ireland with the Scottish islands to expedition-style journeys that explore the untamed west coast. Additionally, add an overland trip or a ride on the opulent Belmond Grand Hibernian train to your cruise. You can also follow the Celebzero website for more information on cruises from Belfast 2023.
FAQ’s