Belfast Harbour has launched its largest capital investment project to date. Construction of a new £90m deepwater terminal is set to begin.
This facility will cater to large cruise vessels and expand offshore wind energy capacities. With 146 cruise vessels scheduled this year, the port is the busiest on the island of Ireland.
Civil engineering firm GRAHAM Construction has been appointed as the main contractor. Stage one is expected to open for the 2028 cruise season, with further enhancements planned by 2030.
Belfast Harbour CEO Joe O’Neill, Chair Dr Theresa Donaldson, and Leo Martin from MD Civil Engineering at GRAHAM at the site of the new D3 terminal
Dr. Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, stated, "This project delivers on our primary responsibility to maintain and develop the Port for the good of everyone in the region."
Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, noted the goal of attracting more turnaround cruise calls. This means that different sets of passengers will board and disembark on the same day.
Gerry Lennon, Chief Executive of Visit Belfast, highlighted the importance of cruise tourism for regional economic growth. He added, “This investment marks a pivotal milestone in the realisation of this transformative project.”
Overall, the new terminal aims to strengthen both cruise tourism and offshore wind energy capabilities for Belfast.
