Foyle Port Anticipates 21% Growth in Cruise Tourism for 2025

16th April 2025

Afloat.ie Team

Cruise Liner Saga Spirit of Adventure moored in Greencastle in May 2024. Foyle Port is preparing to welcome a busy cruise season, which will boost local economic activity

Saga Spirit of Adventure moored in Greencastle in May 2024. Foyle Port is preparing to welcome a busy cruise season, which will boost local economic activity

The North West region of Ireland is expecting a significant boost in cruise tourism this year. Cruise liner calls are set to increase by 21% compared to 2019.

A total of 17 cruise calls are planned from May to September, including five maiden visits. Major cruise lines like Silversea, Azamara, and Crystal Cruises will return to the area.

Foyle Port estimates that visiting passengers and crew will contribute over £0.5 million to the local economy by 2025.

As members of Cruise Ireland, Foyle Port aims to expand cruise tourism in the region. Recently, the team attended the Seatrade Cruise Global event in Miami to promote Foyle Port.

Captain Bill McCann, Harbour Master at Foyle Port, said, “The consistent return of cruise lines speaks volumes about our destination’s reputation. Feedback from Miami was overwhelmingly positive."

He added, “We look forward to welcoming over 5,000 passengers and 3,700 crew this season."

Bill McCann, Harbour Master and Operations Director with Louise Denvir, Cruise Marketing Executive representing Foyle Port at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, 9th April 2025

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, over 60% of cruise passengers revisit destinations discovered on cruises. Surveys at Foyle Port show 100% of guests would return for extended stays.

Louise Denvir, Cruise Marketing Executive at Foyle Port, commented, “Derry offers a unique experience as Ireland’s only completely intact historic Walled City. Visitors enjoy our rich culture and vibrant festivals."

Beyond the city, Foyle Port is a gateway to stunning natural landscapes. Guests can explore the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal and the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway in Antrim.

The first ship, World Explorer, will dock on 11th May. For the full cruise schedule see here

Published in Foyle Port, Cruise Liners

Published in Foyle Port

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About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.