The largest cruise ship ever to visit Lough Foyle has made a landmark call to the North West, bringing a record number of visitors to the region.
Record Breaker: The 300-metre Nieuw Statendam, carrying almost 3,700 passengers and crew, became the largest cruise ship ever to visit Lough Foyle during its call as part of Holland America Line's Arctic Circle & British Isles voyage
Holland America Line's Nieuw Statendam arrived in Lough Foyle this week, becoming the biggest vessel ever to visit the waterway. Measuring 300 metres in length and just under 100,000 gross tonnes, the ship carried close to 3,700 passengers and crew. The visit marks a significant milestone for Foyle Port and highlights the growing appeal of the North West as a cruise destination.
Capable of accommodating up to 2,666 guests and 1,053 crew, Nieuw Statendam called as part of Holland America Line's 28-day Arctic Circle & British Isles Collectors' Voyage.
The visit was the cruise line's first return to Lough Foyle since Prinsendam visited in 2018. Holland America Line has already confirmed further calls in 2027, 2028 and 2029. A traditional plaque exchange took place on board to mark the inaugural visit, involving the ship's captain and representatives from Foyle Port.
Foyle Port Harbour Master and Operations Director Captain Bill McCann described the occasion as "a landmark moment" for both the port and the wider region. "Bringing close to 3,700 passengers and crew to the region in a single visit is a record for us," he said. "The fact that Holland America Line has already committed to returning for the next three years tells its own story about the confidence that leading cruise lines now have in our port facilities and local tourism offering."
Marking the Moment: Nieuw Statendam Captain Noel O'Driscoll and Foyle Port Harbour Master and Operations Director Captain Bill McCann exchange plaques to commemorate the vessel's inaugural call to Lough Foyle
Karen Farndell, Associate Vice President for Sales and Marketing at Holland America Line, said the call gave guests an opportunity to experience Northern Ireland's history, culture and landscapes.
The ship's arrival also provided a boost for local tourism operators, with passengers offered a range of shore excursions throughout the North West. Among the attractions featured this season is Celtic Grá, a live production celebrating Celtic music and dance.
Niamh McCarthy, Managing Director of Excursions Ireland, said the Foyle region continues to grow as a cruise destination thanks to its combination of scenery, heritage and visitor experiences.
Foyle Port is expecting a busy cruise season in 2026 as larger vessels continue to add the North West to their itineraries.
