An ultra-luxury modern expedition cruise ship, the Seabourn Venture, is to call to Killybegs Harbour, Co. Donegal, tomorrow (3 May) marking the start of this year’s season, writes Jehan Ashmore

On hand to welcome tourists will be the team from Killybegs Information Centre which will also look forward to a further 24 cruise ships. Combined, these cruise ships will have 19,757 passengers visiting Killybegs and tourist attractions of the north-west county.

The deepwater port in west Donegal will welcome these cruise-goers from the operator Seabourn Cruise Line (US owned Carnival Corporation) whose expedition ship is paying tribute to the remote destinations visited by the brand's highly successful expedition and Ventures by Seabourn excursion programs.

On board the 120 crew-serving cruise ship, there is a capacity for 264 guests travelling with Seabourn which self-styles itself as operating intimate ships with a private yacht-like atmosphere. The expedition ships feature 132 all veranda, all ocean-front suites, world-class dining, and a luxurious spa.

Seabourn Venture, launched in 2022 along with its twin, Seabourn Pursuit last year, are richly-appointed base camps where guides are on board as part of an Expedition Team. Among the expedition equipment are Zodiacs, kayaks, six-person submarines that allow guests to experience cultural encounters as well as confront rare creatures in the wild.

The twins are designed and built for diverse environments to meet PC6 Polar Class standards. As alluded they feature modern hardware and technology that will extend the ship's global deployment and capabilities.

The Seabourn Venture is scheduled to arrive at the harbour town at 0800 and remain throughout the day until 1800.