Things to Do

Common ports for Ireland cruises include Belfast, Dublin, Waterford and Cobh the port for Cork. Dublin is the capital city and is filled with attractions including city tours, shopping trips and cultural experiences that showcase the city’s artistic side. Trinity College, where visitors can view the elaborately-made book of Kells, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1191, are two popular destinations. Dublin is an urban center with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The history of the region is also very evident and can be seen in the striking Georgian architecture.

Waterford City is in the southeast of the country, slightly inland from the port at Dunmore East. One of the oldest in the country, the heritage of the city on the River Suir can be traced back to the Vikings in the 9th century. Visitors today can visit traditional pubs, stroll among ancient fortifications and do some shopping. Home to the famous Waterford crystal company, few leave this town without some sort of hand-blown glass bauble.

In Northern Ireland, Belfast is a compact city with a picturesque location. Recent history will remember Belfast as a location of political strife, but those tensions have dissipated. The city that has emerged from the conflict is vibrant and pedestrian lanes connect stylish boutiques, friendly pubs and chic restaurants. The Victorian city was the original home of the Titanic, and you can see where the massive ocean liner was built.

Because many cruises to Ireland also stop in cities in Scotland and England, guests can visit some of the other popular British ports. London is a common embarkation port and extra time here is great for tourists that want to take in the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey or Buckingham Palace. Travelers can also walk the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, capital of Scotland.