#CRUISE CALLS – The opening cruiseship caller for this year in Londonderry was marked by the arrival this morning of the 446 passenger Quest for Adventure, writes Jehan Ashmore.

She docked at Lisahally, downriver of the north-west city, having sailed overnight from Dublin Port. The 18,000 tonnes vessel is also operating on her first season for UK based Saga Cruises.

A further seven cruise calls are scheduled this season, noting each visit will be taken by individual ships as there will be no repeat calls. Since 1995 the Foyle have welcomed these vessels.

Asides Lisahally, they can also berth at the city-quays or at anchorage off Greencastle, Co. Donegal.

#CRUISE LINERS-Aside the main ports where most cruise ships visit while touring this island, Londonderry would be a less frequent destination, as such vessels only began visiting the north-west port since 1995, writes Jehan Ashmore.

Some of the leading operators though have called over the years called to the port, they are: Crystal Cruises, Cunard Line, Residensea, Seabourn and Silverseas.

This year's line-up will see eight scheduled calls starting in May with the 446 passenger Quest for Adventure (for more click HERE) built in 1981 and operated by Saga Cruises. A younger near-sister Astor built in 1987 is also due to call in August.

Below is a list of the cruise callers and dates.

Quest for Adventure 9 May

Marco Polo 14 July

Prinsendam 16 July

Astor 11 August

Clipper Odyssey 18 August

Princess Daphne 30 August

Albatross 12 September

Ocean Countess 15 September

The vessels will use various berths dependent upon size within the port which is run by the Londonderry Port and Harbour Commissioners. The facilities are at the city quays, Lisahally or require anchorage off Greencastle in Lough Foyle.