Foyle Port Celebrates Record 2025 Cruise Season Growth

20th October 2025

Afloat.ie Team

The inaugural call of Silver Endeavour operated by Silversea in Lisahally on 19th May 2025 at Foyle Port during the successful 2025 season, highlighting the area's growing appeal to international visitors

Foyle Port has announced a successful 2025 cruise season, welcoming 19 cruise ship calls—an impressive 46% increase compared to last year. This growth showcased a diverse array of international visitors to the North West region.

The season featured ships from 11 cruise lines, including luxury operators such as Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. It also marked the inaugural calls of five vessels, including a first-time visit from Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend.

In total, 6,930 passengers and crew visited the region, with 48% of passengers from the United States, followed by Germany (20%) and the UK (13%). Depending on conditions, ships docked at either Greencastle's tender port or Lisahally's commercial port.

The inaugural call to Foyle Port of Seven Seas Grandeur, operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises in Greencastle on 21st August 2025

Bill McCann, Harbour Master at Foyle Port, remarked on the success: “The increase in calls highlights Foyle Port’s growing reputation as a key gateway for cruise tourism in the North West.” He expressed eagerness to build on this success and promote the area's appeal.

Foyle Port's efforts to boost tourism include engaging with the global cruise market at trade shows in Miami and Hamburg. The Port is a member of Cruise Ireland, dedicated to promoting the island globally. Notably, Cruise Ireland and Cruise Britain won “Destination of the Year” at the Seatrade Cruise Awards.

In September, the Port hosted a familiarisation trip for 12 cruise line representatives from the US and Europe. The trip included tours of Lisahally and Greencastle, designed to showcase local tourism products.

Niamh McCarthy, Managing Director of Excursions Ireland, noted the success of the showcase, stating that visiting executives were impressed with Derry and the surrounding areas. “Several have committed to increasing cruise calls in upcoming seasons,” she added, highlighting a shift in perceptions about the region.

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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.