CRUISE season has begun in harbours across Cork county.
Cork County Council announced a strong and diverse 2026 cruise season, with eight luxury cruise ship calls scheduled between May and September at the Council‑managed harbours of Kinsale and Youghal along with Bere Island.
The season is expected to welcome over 1,840 passengers and more than 1,170 crew, delivering important economic and social benefits to coastal communities throughout the county.
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The season got underway in a particularly symbolic and celebratory manner in Kinsale on Sunday, 10th May 2026, with the arrival of Le Lyrial.
The opening call coincided with Sea Sunday, adding special significance and reflecting the deep maritime heritage shared by Cork’s coastal communities.
Passengers were warmly welcomed ashore and entertained on arrival by musicians from Ballinspittle Comhaltas and dancers from the Céilí Experience.
Some passengers opted to take in tours of the city and Midleton while others explored Kinsale’s rich history, renowned food offering and picturesque harbour setting.
Cllr Marie O’Sullivan, deputising for the Mayor of the County of Cork, led a delegation on-board for a formal gift exchange to mark the start of the season.
Also on Monday, 11th May, Kinsale Harbour welcomed Le Bellot, further reinforcing the town’s reputation as a sought‑after destination for boutique and expedition‑style cruise itineraries.
The dual calls illustrated the strength of early‑season cruise interest and delivered additional benefits to local tourism and hospitality businesses.
Overall, Kinsale Harbour will host six cruise calls during 2026, welcoming vessels including Le Lyrial, Le Bellot, L’Austral, Le Champlain, Europa and SH Diana.
A major highlight of the season will be the visit of Europa by Hapag‑Lloyd Cruises in August, one of the world’s most prestigious luxury cruise ships, carrying more than 400 passengers.
Elsewhere along the coast, Bere Island will welcome Island Sky, operated by Noble Caledonia, in September 2026, offering passengers an intimate island experience and showcasing the area’s distinctive heritage, dramatic landscapes and strong community spirit.
Five of the eight scheduled cruise calls are operated by Ponant, underlining the strong and ongoing relationship between Cork County Council and leading international cruise operators.
Commenting on the announcement, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, said, 'I am delighted to see the 2026 cruise season kick off so successfully. I am particularly pleased, as a proud Youghal native, to see a cruise call returning to Youghal in 2026, giving visitors the chance to experience its rich history, coastal charm and welcoming atmosphere. Cruise tourism continues to support sustainable economic growth across County Cork.'
The 2026 cruise season will run from May through September, supporting shoulder‑season tourism and reinforcing Cork’s reputation as a high‑quality, welcoming and distinctive cruise destination.
Cork County Council will continue to work closely with local communities, tourism partners and cruise operators to ensure safe, well‑managed and memorable visits for passengers and crew alike.
