Foyle Port concluded its 2024 cruise season on September 15, with over 10,000 passengers and crew visiting, predominantly from the United States.
The season, running from May to September, featured ships docking at Lisahally and Greencastle, with the record-setting Norwegian Dawn among the largest vessels to enter Lough Foyle.
Captain Bill McCann projected a 50pc increase in cruise calls for 2025 compared to pre-pandemic levels, emphasizing the port’s appeal as a gateway to Ireland.
Local officials praised the cruise season’s success, highlighting its economic benefits and the positive feedback from international passengers about their experiences in the region.
Visit Derry’s Chief Executive, Odhran Dunne shared: “The feedback from international cruise passengers on their visit to the city and North West region has been fantastic over the course of the cruise season. The range of visitor excursions and experiences on offer ensure the destination continues to grow its reputation within the cruise industry as a must-see destination. We look forward to supporting Foyle Port in servicing this growing sector of our tourism market over the coming years.”
