The Belfast Harbour recorded its final cruise ship call of 2025 as Ambassador Ambition departed the port.
This year, the city hosted 147 cruise ship visits — more than any previous season.
The milestone visit was made by the Regal Princess, which marked the 1,500th cruise call since the first line docked in Belfast in 1996.
According to the Cruise Belfast partnership, 57 ships from 31 different lines brought about 300,000 passengers and crew.
The local economy is estimated to have gained between £20 m and £25 m from the cruise season.
Ten ships berthed overnight, allowing passengers to explore Belfast’s food and culture scene.
This year also saw ten ships making their inaugural visits, including the 330‑metre‑long P&O Britannia with over 4,000 guests aboard.
Belfast facilitated seven cruise turnarounds — meaning local passengers boarded and disembarked in the city.
Port Director Michael Robinson said, “We continue to see an increase in the economic benefits that the industry brings to the city.”
He noted construction has begun on a new £90 million deep‑water cruise terminal, the port’s largest single investment to date.
Gerry Lennon, Chief Executive of Visit Belfast, added: “Cruise visitors bring vibrancy, international reach and meaningful economic benefit… not just to Belfast but to towns and attractions right across the city region.”
Nick Hughes, Chief Operating Officer of Ambassador Cruise Line, thanked local partners and confirmed plans to return to Belfast next year with seven sailings from the port.
