Dublin Port welcomed its first cruise ship this season which Afloat observed departing Dublin Bay this afternoon when bound for the Outer Hebrides, writes Jehan Ashmore

The Norwegian flagged Spitsbergen at just 100m in length berthed close to the city-centre where the diminutive ship with just 220 passengers disembarked at Sir John Rogersons Quay. 

As for the giant cruiseships, they will in the majority, make instead anchorage calls off neighbouring Dun Laoghaire Harbour. Tenders from cruiseships will shuttle back and forth with the port in south Dublin Bay.

The ship operated by Hurtigruten Expeditions is named after the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago which is off northern Norway and is within the Arctic Circle.

On board are two observation lounge/bar areas, a restaurant, gift shop, sauna and spa, fitness room and hot tubs in addition to a Science Centre. At the prow of the ship is an open observation deck as well amidships above the passenger decks.

All of the passenger cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most of the cabins have double beds, while some are equipped with separate beds where one doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.

The ship has its own Expedition Team which serves as a university at sea where lectures take place inside the ship as well as out on deck adding to the passenger educational experience.

Spitsbergen as Afloat reported was due to make a call to the Isle of Man on Sunday. Next destination to visit is the Isle of Arran tomorrow, 28 March and Barra (as mentioned in the photo caption) is understood to be the next port of call.

The ship is to make a return to Dublin in early April.

For a list of cruiseship schedules up to November and beyond, click here.