Historic First as Luxury Cruise Ship Calls to Baltimore Harbour

Baltimore harbour welcomed its first ever cruise ship yesterday as Noble Caledonia's Island Sky brought 90 passengers to explore West Cork's coastal treasures, marking a significant milestone for the region's growing cruise tourism sector.

The luxury expedition vessel, carrying 90 passengers and 81 crew members, arrived on Thursday, 7 August, as part of its 12-day 'Wild Ireland' tour that traces Ireland's rugged Atlantic coastline from Dublin to Liverpool.

Passengers spent the morning exploring Baltimore before transferring to Sherkin Island, known locally as 'the island of the arts', in the afternoon. Visitors enjoyed walking tours highlighting Baltimore's rich maritime heritage and browsed the creative studios that have made Sherkin a haven for artists and craftspeople.

The Island Sky itself became an attraction throughout the day, nestled in Baltimore's expansive natural harbour, which is sheltered by the scattered islands of Carbery's Hundred Isles. Both passengers and crew took time to sample West Cork's renowned food and drink offerings whilst mingling with locals who turned out to witness the historic arrival.

Cllr Caroline Cronin, Chairperson of the West Cork Municipal District:

"I am delighted to be associated with this inaugural cruise call to Baltimore. Today's passengers visiting Sherkin Island and the ship's onward journey to Bere Island present a welcome boost to our islands."

The councillor, who was welcomed aboard with Cork County Council officials for a formal gift exchange with the ship's captain, noted that approximately 4,000 cruise passengers are expected to visit Cork County Council's harbours in 2025, providing substantial economic benefits to local communities.

Today, the Island Sky continues its journey with a short coastal voyage to Bere Island, where passengers will be tendered directly from the ship to explore the island's military heritage, including the Lonehort Battery, Martello Tower and Heritage Centre. The day's activities will conclude with traditional live music and refreshments at Dessie's Bar, giving visitors a true taste of island hospitality.

The ship's itinerary includes stops at some of Ireland's most spectacular coastal locations, including the Skellig Islands, Galway, the Aran Islands and Killybegs, before passengers disembark in Liverpool.

Cork County Council staff were present throughout the visit, providing maps, brochures and local knowledge to ensure visitors made the most of their time in Baltimore and Sherkin. The warm reception and smooth operation of this inaugural visit bodes well for future cruise tourism in the area.

This successful call forms part of a record-breaking cruise season for Cork County Council's ports, with 25 cruise visits planned for 2025. Inaugural calls to Youghal and Ballycotton are also scheduled, whilst established destinations like Schull, Kinsale and Bere Island continue to receive repeat visits, cementing County Cork's reputation as a distinctive and welcoming cruise destination.

The arrival of international cruise passengers to Baltimore represents not just a boost for local businesses, but also an opportunity to showcase the unique character of West Cork's islands and coastal communities to a global audience. With each successful visit, the region strengthens its position as a must-see destination along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.