This year’s first batch of cruise passengers arrived in the North West this week, as the busy tourist season is getting underway in the region.
Visitors landed in the area at the Foyle Port for the first time in 2024 this week, firstly with the arrival of the Seabourn Ovation vessel on Wednesday.
As part of their 21-day journey from Lisbon to Hamburg, visitors also made a stop in Greencastle on Thursday – getting a chance to explore the local area.
Representatives from Foyle Port, Failte Ireland, Go Visit Inishowen and Visit Derry went onboard to greet Captain Kim Tanner and crew and exchange plaques and gifts.
Go Visit Inishowen provided a 1:6 scale replica of the Cross Slab of St Mura, from St Mura’s graveyard in Fahan – crafted by Buncrana sculptor John McCarron.
This week also saw a visit from Spirit of Adventure, which made its maiden call to the North West this week also, and tomorrow sees the eco-friendly World Explorer also docked in the area.
Foyle Port’s Harbour Master and Operations Director Bill McCann said, “It’s a pleasure to welcome Seabourn Ovation to Lough Foyle once again following her maiden visit last May. We are seeing return calls from 92% of the cruise lines this year – we believe this speaks volumes to the positive experience received on previous visits and is a real testament to the destination.”
Captain McCann added, “2023 was a record year for the port as we welcomed over 16,000 guests and crew with an estimated direct spend of over €1 million into the local economy benefiting local restaurants, shops, tourism providers, entertainment and transport companies. We eagerly anticipate further growth allowing for more international tourists to experience first-hand what a beautiful part of the world this is.”
“Cruise guests have the opportunity to explore areas of outstanding natural beauty and a wealth of incredible tourism products across four counties: Derry-Londonderry, Donegal, Antrim and Tyrone. With a focus on sustainable tourism, bespoke excursions transport guests to Glenshane Country Farm, Mussenden Temple and Downhill, the Giant’s Causeway, Seamus Heaney HomePlace, the historic Walls of Derry-Londonderry, Glenveagh National Park and the Inishowen Peninsula.”
Niamh McCarthy, Managing Director of Excursions Ireland said, “We are delighted to work alongside Foyle Port in bringing this unique part of our island to life through our tours. It is always very refreshing to work with a region who actively welcome cruise ships and this port is one of them. The variety of tours we offer from this region is second to none and the year on year feedback is phenomenal. We are looking forward to another busy 2024 season and also look forward to working alongside all at Foyle Port in the future to further promote and showcase this region and all it has to offer.”
