Ireland Cruises

Explore the Enchantment of Ireland with CruiseAway

Ah, **Ireland**! A land filled with lush green landscapes, striking cliffs, and rich history that comes alive in its charming towns and breathtaking natural scenery. Visiting Ireland on a cruise is a fantastic way to experience all this captivating country has to offer without the hassle of constant travel. Imagine sipping a pint of Guinness in a traditional pub, exploring ancient castles, or taking in the views from the famous Cliffs of Moher—all while enjoying the comforts of your cruise ship. Fun fact: Ireland is home to over 30,000 castles and ruins, a testament to its rich history and storied past! A cruise offers the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Must-Visit Harbours in Ireland

When cruising to **Ireland**, several harbours provide access to incredible experiences. Here are five of the most popular ports worth visiting:

• Dun Laoghaire (Dublin): This charming harbour is just a short distance from Ireland’s vibrant capital, Dublin. As you dock, take the opportunity to explore Dublin’s iconic attractions like **Trinity College** and the **Book of Kells**. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along the **River Liffey** or visit the famous **Guinness Storehouse**. Insider tip: Take the **Dart train** for a scenic ride along the coast to the picture-perfect town of **Howth** for a delightful seafood lunch!
• Cobh: Known for its colourful facades and striking cathedral, Cobh is Ireland’s only full-sized deep-water port. Discover its rich maritime history and visit the **Cobh Heritage Centre**. Don’t forget to walk the **Queenstown Trail**, which offers stunning views of the harbour. Pro tip: If time permits, take a day trip to **Blarney Castle** and kiss the famous Blarney Stone!
• Belfast: A vibrant city steeped in history, Belfast is a great port for exploring Northern Ireland. Visit the **Titanic Belfast** museum to learn about the ship’s tragic journey or take a guided walk through the **Peace Wall** to understand the city’s complex history. Insider tip: Look for the impressive street murals throughout the city—each tells a story and is a must-see!
• Greenock: Located on the west coast, Greenock is your gateway to the breathtaking **Loch Lomond** and the **Trossachs National Park**. Experience stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and exceptional hiking trails. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby historic site of **Mount Stuart** on **Isle of Bute**! Pro tip: The scenic train ride along the west coast offers spectacular views that you won’t want to miss.
• Liverpool: While technically in England, this port is a popular stop on many cruises to Ireland. Nicknamed the home of The Beatles, visitors can explore the vibrant waterfront, the **Royal Albert Dock**, and the **Beatles Story Museum**. Insider tip: Head to the **Cavern Club** for live music and a taste of Liverpool’s music history!

Best Times to Cruise Ireland

The best time to visit **Ireland** generally falls between **May and September**, when temperatures range from **15°C to 20°C**. During these months, you’ll enjoy mild weather perfect for exploring its beautiful landscapes and historic sites. If you’re looking to avoid crowds and take advantage of lower prices, consider cruising in **April** or **October**; during these shoulder months, temperatures can reach up to **15°C**, and you can still enjoy much of the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

The Costs of Cruising in Ireland

When comparing cruise prices, expect a one-week Standard cruise to Ireland to range from **$1,500 to $3,200**, while a two-week adventure may cost between **$3,500 and $6,000**. Luxury cruises typically start around **$5,000** for one week. Keep in mind that the most affordable times to cruise are usually during the shoulder seasons of **October to March**, while the summer months of **June to August** tend to be the most expensive due to demand. Food and drink prices vary widely, with budget meals averaging around **$15 to $30**, while dining at nicer restaurants can range from **$30 to $70** per person.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Ireland Cruises

• Princess Cruises: This cruise line operates **17 ships**, with **five** cruising to Ireland. The **Crown Princess** and **Regal Princess** frequently set sail from **Sydney** or **Southampton**. Known for excellent service and diverse onboard amenities, Princess Cruises features a range of itineraries that allow you to explore Ireland’s beauty while indulging in fine dining and entertainment.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of **11 ships**, **two** of them offer itineraries to Ireland, including **Nieuw Statendam** and **Zuiderdam**. Departing mainly from **Rotterdam** or **Dover**, this cruise line offers enriching experiences that connect you to local culture through culinary and exploratory excursions.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line boasts a fleet size of **20 ships**, with **six** that visit Ireland. The popular **Norwegian Dawn** and **Norwegian Prima** frequently depart from **Southampton** or **Québec City**. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a casual onboard experience with a focus on flexible dining, perfect for cruisers who prefer a relaxed atmosphere.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23**, only **two** of their ships cruise to Ireland: **MSC Virtuosa** and **MSC Preziosa**. They often depart from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. MSC is popular for family-friendly experiences, offering engaging activities and entertainment that cater to cruisers of all ages, making it an ideal choice for family vacations.
• Cunard: With a total fleet size of **four ships**, **two** offer cruises to Ireland: **Queen Anne** and **Queen Mary 2**. Departures primarily occur from **Southampton** or **Kiel Canal**. Cunard is renowned for its lavish onboard atmosphere and elegant dining experiences, delivering a classic cruising experience with a touch of sophistication.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: Sporting a fleet of **eight ships**, **four** sail to Ireland, with ships like **Vista** and **Sirena**. They typically depart from **Southampton** or **Dublin**. Oceania is known for its culinary focus, offering exceptional dining options and unique explorations that let you dive into the local culture of every port.
• Silversea: Featuring **13 ships**, **five** of which travel to Ireland, including **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Wind**. These often depart from **Southampton** or **Copenhagen**. Silversea positions itself as a premium luxury experience, offering all-inclusive itineraries and personalized experiences that allow guests to enjoy immersive cultural excursions.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With **11 ships** in total, **six** sail to Ireland. The **Viking Saturn** and **Viking Sky** frequently set off from **Greenwich** or **Bergen**. Viking stands out for its culturally immersive experience, including enrichment programs and destination-focused itineraries that celebrate local traditions and cuisines.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury line consists of **six ships**, with **five** offering itineraries to Ireland, namely the **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departing often from **Southampton** or **Reykjavik**, Regent provides an all-inclusive luxury experience, ensuring that every detail is taken care of for an unforgettable voyage.
• Seabourn: With **six ships** in its fleet, **two** focus on Ireland: **Seabourn Sojourn** and **Seabourn Venture**. They typically depart from **London** or **Greenock**. Known for their intimate cruising experience, Seabourn offers high-end luxury service, spacious suites, and unforgettable shore excursions that allow guests to explore the beauty of Ireland in style.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you are considering a cruise to **Ireland** but want to explore other exciting destinations, check out these five alternatives:

• United Kingdom: Rich in history, explore castles, cathedrals, and rolling green hills while enjoying a diverse mix of cultures!
• Scotland: With breathtaking landscapes, mysterious lochs, and historic castles, Scotland offers a unique adventure perfect for nature lovers.
• Caribbean: This region features inviting beaches and a warm climate, offering a different kind of relaxation amid beautiful scenery.
• Western Europe: Perfect for cultural enthusiasts, this area combines stunning architecture and rich heritage across multiple countries.
• Norway: Known for its dramatic fjords and stunning coastal landscapes, Norway provides a striking visual journey that is simply unforgettable!

With its scenic beauty, rich culture, and welcoming locals, Ireland offers a unique experience for every cruiser. Embark on your adventure and book your next cruise with **CruiseAway** today!