The expedition cruise liner L’Austral on its visit to Kinsale in April. Photos: John Allen

Cork is cruising towards another busy season

Published:
Last updated:

There was music and dancing recently as the first cruise ship of the season was welcomed to Cork.

The luxury French owned expedition ship L’Austral arrived at Kinsale with 185 passengers on board who enjoyed unobstructed views of the iconic Charles Fort from their anchorage.

Arriving ashore on tender boats, delighted passengers enjoyed traditional music by young musicians from Ballinspittle Comhaltas accompanied by Irish dancers on the pier.

Mayor of Cork Cllr Danny Collins said: “We have so much to offer cruise visitors in Cork county, from stunning landscapes and fascinating history to vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.

“I look forward to welcoming many more cruise visitors to our shores in the coming months."

The ship, which arrived in Kinsale on 26 April, was on an 8 day, one way itinerary from Bordeaux to Dublin that sailed along the French Atlantic coast and continued to Cornwall before coming to Kinsale, its last stopover before heading for the capital.

Passengers were welcomed ashore by local Cllr Marie O’Sullivan, Chair of Cork County Council’s Bandon-Kinsale Municipal District.

She said: “Cork is Ireland’s maritime haven, and few places have the facilities, environment, people, and culture that we have to offer to cruise visitors.”

Visitors chose from various organised tours, including a culinary walking tour, a visit to Charles Fort and the Old Head of Kinsale, and a visit to the Jameson Distillery. Some of the guests also spent time discovering the town independently. As guests departed, local businesses Kinsale Mead and KoKo Kinsale provided them with a taste of their produce to take away.

There are 6 cruise calls scheduled for Cork County Council’s harbours this season. In addition,

Bantry’s season begins on 22 May with the first of 13 scheduled calls. Castletownbere, a town usually associated with fishing, will also welcome a cruise ship on 20 May.

The next cruise ship at Kinsale is the 185 capacity Dumont d’Urville, which returns having first visited in 2019.

Michael Olney
    Published:
    Last updated: