Bantry Bay had a 'first' of two cruise ships at the same time as its ‘cruise ship visitor season came to an end.’
"The sight of two cruise vessels was both unusual and welcoming, demonstrating the Bay’s capacity to accommodate multiple cruise calls and its potential to serve as a key gateway for cruise visitors to Bantry and the wider West Cork region," said Capt. Michael Murphy, Assistant Harbour Master at Bantry Bay Port where two ships were docked at the same time yesterday (Tuesday August 11)
Today (Weds August 12) the West Cork Port ended its cruise season when the Insignia was its final cruise ship to call for this year.
Season Finale: Oceania Cruises’ Insignia calls at Bantry Bay on Wednesday, August 12, bringing the curtain down on a 2026 cruise season that welcomed nine liners to West Cork. Photo: Damien Allen
"A vibrant season that saw 9 cruise liners call to Bantry Bay from April to August, bringing more than 6,000 passengers and crew from around the world to Bantry and West Cork, providing a valuable boost to local tourism, hospitality, and businesses. The 2026 season has once again showcased Bantry Bay as a stand-out cruise destination along the Wild Atlantic Way," he added.
Operated by Oceania Cruises, the Insignia carries over 1,000 passengers and crew, with a length of 593.7 feet and 340 suites and rooms.
It was a busy end to the cruise season this week after yesterday, with the arrival of two vessels carrying over 1,000 guests and crew each. The Azamara Quest was docked at Bantry Outer, while the Europa was at Bantry Inner.
Double Berth: Europa at Bantry Bay during Tuesday’s unusual two-ship visit, when it called alongside Azamara Quest in a first for the West Cork port. Photo: Damien Allen
This year’s season opened in April with the arrival of Le Lapérouse, a modern expedition ship operated by Ponant, which set the tone for a diverse and exciting schedule of cruise calls to Bantry Bay.
Ann Doherty, CEO at the Port of Cork Company, said: “I’d like to thank local businesses, and especially the people of Bantry for their incredible support and hospitality throughout the season. As we look forward to 2027, we remain committed to ensuring Bantry Bay is a must-visit destination for cruise visitors from around the world.”
The Port of Cork will close its season of over 90 cruise ship calls on October 16 when the MSC Virtuosa arrives.
Bantry Bay Port Company is a subsidiary of the Port of Cork Company.
