#cove – Starting at 13:00hrs off Cobh Promenade on Saturday, Cove Sailing Club stages its annual Cobh to Blackrock Race season highlight in Cork Harbour. The Port of Cork and Union Chandlery have once again agreed to sponsor this year's racing that attracted over 100 boats in 2013.

The course is to continue along its traditional route passing Ringaskiddy, Monkstown, Passage, across Lough Mahon and along to the finish at Blackrock Castle.

All boats are then invited to continue up to the City Quays where complimentary overnight berthing will be provided by the Port of Cork at the Cork City Marina.

This year Cove Sailing Club are also very pleased to be able to invite competitors and their guests to the prize-giving at The Sextant which is just opposite the City Quays marina. A barbecue and home-made pizzas will be available at preferential prices for crews together with the Sextant's huge range of top quality beer and wine. 

#PortofCork – According to The Irish Examiner, two of the biggest developments to come before planners in recent years will get under way when oral hearings will be made on the same day in Cork next month.

Inspectors from An Bord Pleanála will listen to proposals by the Port of Cork for a €100m upgrade of its container terminal at Ringaskiddy, while the GAA's plans for a €67m regeneration of Páirc Uí Chaoimh will also come in for scrutiny.

The port oral hearing will take place at Cork International Airport Hotel and the GAA's will be held at the Imperial Hotel. Both start on September 10 and are expected to take up to three days to complete.

It is the second time the port authority has applied to An Bord Pleanála for a major upgrade at Ringaskiddy. To read more click HERE.

#cruiseliners – Tomorrow the Port of Cork will welcome three cruise liners to Cork Harbour, bringing a combined total of 6,500 passengers and crew to the region.

The largest liner, "MSC Magnifica" will be first to arrive, berthing at Cobh Cruise Terminal at 7.30am with over 3,500 passengers on board. She will be followed by the arrival of "AIDACara" at Ringaskiddy Deepwater Berth at 8.30am. Finally, the sails of the unique "Sea Cloud 11" cruise liner will be seen in the lower harbour at 1.30pm when she drops anchor for the afternoon.

"The ability to accommodate multiple cruise calls in one day is testament to the excellent cruise facilities that Cork has to offer cruise line companies. Along with our world class tourism offerings throughout the region, we really have a unique selling point for cruise lines. The Port is committed to investing in the upgrade of our current facilities in Cobh and assessing the requirement of additional facilities as the cruise sector expands."

By the close of the 2014 in early October, the Port of Cork will have welcomed a total of 52 cruise ships to the port. Despite the number of calls being slightly lower than 2013, the cruise vessels calling in 2014 are larger and have higher passenger volumes such as Princess Cruises newest ship "Royal Princess" which will make her maiden call to Cork on 19th September. At 330 metres in length (over 3 times the length of Thomond Park), this is the size and style of ship that the Port of Cork are endeavouring to attract in the future.

The Port of Cork is currently home to Ireland's only dedicated cruise berth in Cobh and all vessels calling to the port are listed at www.portofcork.ie

#CorkCruiseTrio – This season the Port of Cork will welcome 54 cruise ships throughout Cork Harbour, among them three cruiseships calling simultaneously next Thursday, writes Jehan Ashmore.

So what callers are we to expect in this trio line-up, they are listed below as follows. For further details click the highlighted name of each cruiseship.

Sea Cloud II (2001/3,849grt) Flag: Malta Operator: Sea Cloud Cruises Passengers: 94 Crew: 65 

MSC Magnifica (2010/92,128grt) Flag: Panama Operator: MSC Cruises Passengers: 2,500 Crew: 1,000                                                                     

Aidacara (1996/38,557grt) Flag: German Operator: Aida Cruises

The total number of callers this year has slightly dipped than those visiting in 2013,  though cruise vessels calling this summer are larger including newbuild Royal Princess of 141,000 tonnes.  Overall this trend has resulted in an increase in passenger capacity of between 3,000-4,000.

It is estimated that 108,000 passengers and some 30,000 crew will be calling to the various cruise berths in Cork Harobur and bring an economic windfall of around €15m.

In recent years Cobh has been visited by increasingly larger and efficient vessels. Another trend is the developing demand for turn-around calls and overnight stays.

Due to the above combination of larger cruiseships and capacity demands, the Port of Cork are planning to handle even bigger vessels than the current Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines ships with the arrival of the giant new 'Quantum' class newbuilds of approximately 167,000 tonnes.

These ultra-large ships carry almost 5,000 passengers each and the Port of Cork will be the only port of call on the island of Ireland capable of handling such ships when they enter service.

In order to facilitate larger cruiseships docking in Cobh, it is understood that two ships will be able to berth together.

To meet this goal, the costs involved to upgrade Cobh are significant, though the Port of Cork Company remain committed.

Such an investment to the development of the Irish cruise sector is claimed to be of considerable financial return to the local economy and that of the Munster region.

#Ports&ShippingReview: Over the last fortnight, Jehan Ashmore has reported from the shipping scene, where the Port of Cork's turnover increased by over 6% in 2013.

The Inishowen Peninsula in Co. Donegal is set to cash in on the lucrative cruise ship sector following investment to upgrade facilities at Greencastle Harbour.

Warrenpoint Port is on its way to economic recovery as a rise in trading activity saw the Co. Down port record a doubling of pre-tax profits to around £850,000 in 2013.

The port on Carlingford Lough welcomed Saga Pearl II, the first ever cruise ship last month and in October the port is to host the 2014 British Ports Association Conference.

Arklow Bank the leadship of six 'B' class 'greener' newbuilds of the Arklow Shipping fleet called to Dublin Port this week. She departed last night laden with a cargo from the Boliden Tara Mines terminal and is bound for Odda, Norway.

#portofcork – 2013 proved a good year for the Port of Cork, who today reported an increase in traffic volumes from 9.05 million tonnes in 2012 to 9.12 million tonnes in 2013. Turnover amounted to €23.3 million in 2013, an increase of 6.59% and after deducting costs, the profit on ordinary activities before taxation amounted to €1.74 million, an increase of €0.371 million or 27%.

In 2013, the company maintained its commitment to capital investment by making additions to fixed assets of €5.89 million. This brings investment level by the company, since 1997, to €109 million.

The most notable investment in 2013 was the purchase of a new Liebherr LHM 550 crane for Ringaskiddy to support the increased imports of dry bulk cargos - cereals, animal feedstuffs, fertilisers - and to accommodate the Maersk Container transatlantic deep-sea direct service which commenced in January 2012.

Commenting on the 2013 annual results for the Port of Cork, Chief Executive Brendan Keating said: 'I am pleased to announce our 2013 results today which have returned an increased performance on 2012. For the last couple of years, we have seen steady increases in our traffic volumes and annual performance, highlighting the slow but steady improvement in Ireland's economy.'

He continued: 'The Port of Cork Company and its Board of Directors in response to the needs of the economy and the consequential growth in business have lodged a planning application for port redevelopment at Ringaskiddy. Being able to offer improved port facilities to our customers, is key in the continued success and competitiveness of the region and our business.'

The Port of Cork, a tier 1 port of national significance is central to a brighter future for the Irish economy because of the value it brings in moving goods to market for both customers and businesses alike. Ireland requires reliable accessible ports to deliver prosperity in achieving this economic recovery in Ireland.

As one of the three EU Core Network Ports in the State, the Port of Cork was successful in securing EU TEN-T funding in 2013 to assist and support the statutory consent for the infrastructure development proposal planned for Ringaskiddy. On the 1st May 2014, the Port of Cork Company lodged a Planning Application for new Port Infrastructure in Ringaskiddy with An Bord Pleanala under the terms of the Strategic Infrastructure process.

In May 2013, the Bantry Bay Harbour Commissioners assets and trade transferred to the Port of Cork Company. Bantry Bay Port Company Limited was incorporated on the 19th December 2013 and is 100% owned by the Port of Cork Company. This Company was established to manage Bantry Bay Harbour with effect from 1st January 2014 and will in particular, complement the Port of Cork's existing operations.

A total of 62 cruise ships, carrying in excess of 122,500 passengers and crew to the Port of Cork arrived in 2013, making a very significant contribution to the economy of the region. The Port of Cork Company is committed to further development of the dedicated cruise facilities at the Cobh Cruise Terminal. Brittany Ferries continues to operate their weekly successful service between Cork and Roscoff.

#portofcork – Following on from the huge success of TV3's– 'Cork Mega Port' in April 2014, TV3 have commissioned a second series with another four episodes, due to air in 2015. This fly on the wall style documentary will once again follow the staff at the Port of Cork, but this time through the summer months.

As well as the many scheduled container ships and bulk carriers, series two, will feature tourism within Cork Harbour, in particularly the cruise liners and passenger ferries visiting the Port of Cork and the positive impact these calls have on the region. Series two will also focus on commercial and leisure working together to ensure Cork Harbour is a safe harbour for everyone to enjoy.

Goldhawk Media Ltd, who produced the first series, will also produce the second series which promises to give another exciting insight into the everyday operations of the Port and the people behind it. Some familiar faces seen in 'Cork Mega Port' series one will make a reappearance, while there will also be some new faces.

Series Producer Bernadette Bos said "After the winter storms and tempestuous seas, this new series will be able to focus on the way Cork Mega Port carries on working, whilst thousands of local people and visitors enjoy the harbour, its history and the leisure it provides."

Speaking at the announcement of the second series of 'Cork Mega Port' on TV3, Port of Cork Chief Executive Brendan Keating said: "Series one proved to be far more popular than we ever imagined and we were thrilled with the positive response from viewers.'

'Our port business can sometimes seem a little daunting to people, but I feel Goldhawk Media captured it in a way that made viewers interested and eager to learn about day to day operations at the Port of Cork. I have no doubt that series two will be equally as interesting, and probably more popular.'

'Cork Mega Port' series two will air on TV3 in 2015 and will include four one hour episodes. Don't miss it!

#maritimeforum –  Together the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Port of Cork Company announced today that the first ever Irish Maritime Forum will be held in Cork City Hall on Friday September 26th 2014. The forum themed 'Developing the Dynamic Future for Ireland's Maritime Sector' will focus on exploring the future of the maritime sector within Ireland and will look closely at the challenges and opportunities faced by many within the sector. The forum which will attract delegates from across the entire Irish maritime sector will be hosted by the Port of Cork.

A unique platform of both national and international speakers is expected at the forum such as Mr Joachim Coens, President of Port of Zebrugee, Mr Alan Gray, Managing Director of the Indecon International Consulting Group, Mr Liam Lacey, Director of IMDO, Captain Fredrik Van Wijnen, General Secretary of the Confederation of European Shipmasters' Associations (CESMA), Isabelle Ryckbost, Secretary General of the European Sea Ports Organisation and Christophe Mathieu, Deputy Managing Director of Brittany Ferries. With more speakers due to be announced, each speaker will bring his/her own expert knowledge and experience to the forum.

Speaking at the announcement today, Mr John Mullins, Chairman of the Port of Cork, said: "The Irish Maritime Forum is a unique event in that it will be the first time a forum attracting the entire maritime industry in Ireland will come together to jointly share and learn from each other's experience. The theme 'Developing the Dynamic future of Ireland's Maritime Industry' is aimed at everyone within the maritime sector, from ports, ship owners and operators, shipping lines, stevedore, plus maritime associations such as the Irish Institute of Master Mariners and the Chamber of Irish Shipping to name a few.'

He continued: 'The Port of Cork is honoured to be hosting this forum which will be held in Cork City Hall on Friday 26th September 2014. We hope that delegates will benefit from attending the forum and also enjoy Cork City and its many attractions.'
Delegates interested in attending the Irish Maritime Forum 2014 are asked to register now by visiting www.irishmaritimeforum.ie The Irish Maritime Forum will feature a host of events including a welcome address by an Irish Government Minister, lunch, gala dinner and a partner's programme.

#tallships – An American tall ship is open for public tours Sunday, June 29, 2:00pm until 5:00pm at Custom House Quay in Cork.

As Afloat reported earlier, the Sea Education Association's tall ship, the SSV Corwith Cramer, will be docked at Port of Cork City Marina, Custom House Quay following a transatlantic sail from the United States to Cork, Ireland.

SEA Semester/Sea Education Association invites the public to attend an open ship, Sunday, June 29 from 2:00pm until 5:00pm onboard the SSV Corwith Cramer at Custom House Quay in Cork. Public tours will be given. The 134-foot brigantine tall ship is the most sophisticated research vessel under sail in the United States and serves as home and classroom for undergraduate students participating in SEA Semester® study abroad programs focusing on the exploration, understanding and stewardship of the oceans.

The ship's arrival in Cork marks the completion of the SEA Semester Transatlantic Crossing summer study abroad programme that began June 1 in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. This is the first time in over twenty years that SEA Semester and the SSV Corwith Cramer have made the transatlantic journey, and represents an inaugural program ushering in a new suite of voyages featuring cruise tracks along the western coast of Europe, the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands (www.sea.edu/Europe).

#portofcork – This June Bank Holiday weekend the Port of Cork will welcome four cruise liners bringing a staggering 9,000 passengers and crew to the Cork region. As well as cruise liners, Cork Harbour will be a hive of activity with participants of Ocean to City taking part in the annual rowing race and the arrival of the ISAF Women's Match Racing World Championship.

The smallest of the four liners, MV Amadea and MV Minerva will arrive on Sunday 1st June, while on Monday 2nd June MV Queen Victoria will be in Cobh and MV Ruby Princess will berth in Ringaskiddy.

As part of the MV Queen Victoria's visit to Cobh, the Port of Cork and Cunard will jointly hold a Lusitania Memorial Service in the centre of the town on Monday morning. This is an event which Cunard do for all their visits to Cobh and this year, the Port of Cork will be using the opportunity to discuss the 100th anniversary of the Lusitania in 2015 with Cunard. On the 7th May 2015, Cunard will bring the MV Queen Victoria back to Cobh, on their 'Lusitania Remembered' themed cruise.

Commenting on the busy weekend ahead, Port of Cork Commercial Manager, Captain Michael McCarthy said: 'This is a busy weekend for the port, not just with commercial and cruise traffic but also with leisure activities around the harbour. Ocean to City takes place this weekend and that takes careful coordination between our port operations and the participants of the rowing race, to ensure both work together on the water, in a safe and sensible manner. If the weather remains dry and warm for the weekend we can expect to see lots of leisure boats enjoying the harbour also.'

Following the weekend, the ISAF Women's Match Racing World Championships will arrive in Cork Harbour and will compete throughout the week. This match racing event, sponsored by the Port of Cork and Cork County Council will provide some exciting sailing for spectators to view. During the week Camden Fort Meagher in Crosshaven will be the best vantage point to watch the racing, while on Friday 6th June the women will race in the heart of Cork City at the City Quays. As well as the racing there will be live entertainment, food and drink, plus the Irish Navy's new vessel LE Samuel Beckett will be in the City and open to the public.