Fáilte Ireland to develop new tourism plan to position Cork Harbour as ‘a must-visit destination’

A new tourism plan which will position Cork Harbour as “a must-visit destination” and which will aim to encourage visitors to increase their stay and spend in the region is set to be developed.

Fáilte Ireland, in partnership with Cork County Council, Cork City Council and Port of Cork today announced their plans to develop a Cork Harbour Tourism Plan.

This plan, described as a “key element” of Fáilte Ireland’s five-year Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) for Cork city, Harbour and East Cork, aims to position Cork Harbour as a world-class tourism destination and support the sustainable development of the area.

The new Cork Harbour Tourism Plan will identify opportunities to enhance Cork’s tourism offering and create a focal point for Cork’s maritime story, seeking to improve accessibility, capacity, interpretation, visitor facilities, visitor flow as well as visitor experiences.

Fáilte Ireland said it will also include a high-level review of visitor orientation in the Cork Harbour area with recommendations to improve transport, look at sustainable transport initiatives and encourage a greater spread of visitors throughout the area.

Speaking at the announcement, head of Ireland’s Ancient East at Fáilte Ireland, Brian O’Flynn, said the plan “aims to unlock Cork Harbour’s huge potential in attracting both domestic and international visitors to the region”.

“The plan will be key in enhancing the unique tourism offering in Cork Harbour to encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more which will bring significant benefits for the local economy and community and the wider region.

“Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Cork City and County Councils, and the Port of Cork, aims to develop and deliver this ambitious plan to position Cork Harbour as a must-visit destination within Ireland’s Ancient East,” he continued.

Speaking on the importance of this new tourism plan, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank O’Flynn, said the Cork Harbour area has “immense untapped tourism potential”.

“The scope of this plan will identify opportunities to ensure that this area becomes a world class visitor destination encouraging visitors to stay a little longer ultimately resulting in increased economic benefits to Cork Harbour and the wider East Cork area,” he added.

Meanwhile, the chief executive of Cork City Council, Ann Doherty, said the plan will support the development of “new opportunities for visitors to experience and engage with the river and Cork Harbour, and harness the potential of the world’s second largest natural harbour to offer a unique world class tourism experience”.

Harbour master and chief operations officer at the Port of Cork Company, Paul O'Regan, added that today marks a “significant milestone” in the journey to unlock the “true potential of Cork Harbour as a world-class tourism destination”.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Fáilte Ireland and our esteemed partners, Cork City and County Councils, to unveil the Cork Harbour Tourism Plan.

“This initiative not only showcases our commitment to sustainable development but also underscores the rich maritime heritage and untapped beauty of Cork Harbour.

“Together, we will enhance visitor experiences, improve accessibility, and create lasting memories for tourists from near and far. 

“We are excited about the opportunities this plan presents to showcase the charm and allure of our region, and I look forward to welcoming visitors to our shores with open arms.”