The 2026 cruise season at Bantry Bay opened on Sunday with the arrival of Le Lapérouse, the first of 12 vessels scheduled to visit West Cork.
The Ponant-operated expedition ship, launched in 2018, carried up to 184 guests and 110 crew. It anchored in Bantry inner harbour, with passengers tendered ashore to explore the local area.
A mix of expedition, luxury and midsize ships was scheduled between April and August. The line-up included Douglas Mawson, Vasco da Gama, Hanseatic Nature, Deutschland, Spirit of Discovery, Le Champlain, Vista, Europa, Azamara Quest and Insignia.
Ann Doherty, CEO of the Port of Cork Company, said Bantry Bay was strengthening its role as a cruise destination.
“The 2026 schedule reflects growing interest from international operators in West Cork’s unique offering, and complements the wider cruise activity across the Port of Cork,” she said.
“Together, these calls delivered real economic and cultural benefits for the region and we were pleased to see Bantry playing an increasingly important role in Ireland’s cruise tourism landscape.”
Assistant harbour master Michael Pat Murphy said the port expected another strong season.
“We were delighted to welcome Le Lapérouse to Bantry Bay and officially open the 2026 cruise season. With 12 ships scheduled to visit this year, we expected another strong season that would support local tourism and the wider West Cork economy,” he said.
Port representatives also attended Seatrade Cruise Global 2026 in Miami to promote Bantry Bay as a maritime destination, including as an entry point for superyachts visiting Ireland for major events such as the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor.
