A solo cruise visitor in Belfast Harbour this week was the Norwegian Prima, which marked the end of a record season yesterday, writes Jehan Ashmore.
This was the third and final visit of Norwegian Cruise Line's 143,535 gross ton vessel this season, following its last stop just a month ago and its maiden call to the city in May.
The 294m vessel has an impressive capacity for 3,195 double-capacity cruise goers disembarking at Belfast Cruise Terminal. In addition to the 1,506 crew working on board the 2022-built cruise ship.
Among numerous facilities is the Haven, an exclusive enclave with premium and spacious accommodation in a suites complex located on the top decks accessed by private lifts. A personal service of a 24-hour butler and world-class amenities is exclusively reserved for such guests, and each suite has its own private gallery with the highest views on board.
The cruise ship is the first of six vessels of the Prima Class, which was the brand's first new class of ships in nearly a decade. The ship displays several notable naval architecture designs and features, among them an almost complete circular tower overlooking the stern.
Before the 2025 cruise season wraps up, there’s still a chance to catch a glimpse of the final caller next month when Ambassador Cruise Line makes an appearance in the city. This is scheduled to take place on 6 November, when the Ambition which has a 1,904 passenger capacity is also to berth at the dedicated cruise terminal.
Norwegian Prima was due to have called to Cobh, Cork Harbour, today, but did not, and Afloat will have more on the no-show. However, as alluded to, the Ambition is due to visit on Sunday, concluding Cork's cruise season.
