Cork County Welcomes First Cruise Liner of 2025 Season as Tourism Expands to New Harbours

Cork County Council greeted the first of 24 cruise liners expected this season as Le Bellot arrived at Kinsale Harbour on Thursday, 8th May, carrying 184 passengers and 118 crew members.

The 2025 cruise season is set to be a record-breaking year for Cork County, with more than 4,000 passengers anticipated to visit the region's coastal communities. In addition to established destinations such as Kinsale, Schull and Bere Island, ships will also make inaugural calls to Baltimore, Youghal and Ballycotton.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll, highlighted the region's maritime appeal:

"County Cork is uniquely positioned to attract visitors arriving by sea. We have one of the longest coastlines in Ireland extending to more than 1,100km, with 7 inhabited islands and a garden paradise all within easy access of the shore. West Cork has become increasingly popular for small ship expedition cruises where visitors can immerse themselves in each town and village. It is wonderful to see new locations in both East and West Cork being added this year and we look forward to welcoming the thousands of visitors who will get to experience what we have to offer in County Cork."

Following tradition, a delegation from Cork County Council was present to commemorate Le Bellot's first visit to West Cork. Cllr Alan Coleman, deputising for the Chair of Bandon Kinsale Municipal District, presented a commemorative gift to the ship's captain, Mr Francois-Xavier Avril.

The 430ft Le Bellot, operated by French cruise company Ponant, features 92 staterooms and suites, each equipped with private balconies or terraces. The Kinsale stop marks the mid-point of a 9-day journey titled "Celtic Voyage: the Hebrides and the Irish Sea," taking passengers through the coastal beauty of France, Britain and Ireland.

The timing of Le Bellot's arrival coincided with a visit from the French Navy training vessel, L'Etoile, on Thursday 8th and Friday 9th May. Representatives from the French Maritime Consul attended the official presentations aboard both vessels.

The expansion to new harbours reflects Cork County's growing reputation as a premium destination for expedition cruises, with its diverse coastal communities offering authentic experiences for international visitors.