Foyle Port anticipates 21% growth in cruise tourism for 2025
A total of 17 cruise calls are scheduled between May and September, including maiden visits from five vessels
The North West region is set for a significant surge in cruise tourism this year, with cruise calls increasing by 21% compared to 2019, reinforcing its growing appeal as a key destination for international visitors.
A total of 17 cruise calls are scheduled between May and September, including maiden visits from five vessels.
Renowned cruise lines returning to the region include Silversea, Azamara, Mystic Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Noble Caledonia, AE Expeditions, and German-based operators Phoenix Reisen and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
Foyle Port estimates combined visiting passenger and crew spend will generate over £0.5 million for the local economy in 2025.
As members of Cruise Ireland, a strategic network of Irish port authorities and stakeholders, the Port is committed to growing cruise tourism to the region.
The cruise team recently returned from the world’s largest cruise trade show, Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, Florida.
Since 1996, representatives from the Port have attended this annual event, continuously promoting Foyle Port as the gateway to Derry and the wider North West region for cruise tourism.
Bill McCann, Harbour Master & Operations Director & Louise Denvir, Cruise Marketing Executive representing Foyle Port at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami.
“The feedback we received from cruise lines in Miami was overwhelmingly positive, with particular interest in the port’s strategic location, allowing visitors to experience both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in one day.”
He added: “We look forward to working with our strategic partners to collectively welcome over 5,000 passengers and 3,700 crew from all over the world this season.”
According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), over 60% of cruise passengers revisit a destination they first discovered via a cruise. At Foyle Port, visitor surveys reinforce this trend, with 100% of guests indicating they would return to the region for a longer stay.
The first cruise ship, World Explorer, is set to dock on May 11. To view the full cruise schedule, visit: www.foyleport.com/cruise-and-leisure