First cruise ship of the summer season to arrive at West Cork port on Sunday   

The 2026 cruise season for Bantry Bay Port Company will begin on Sunday with the arrival of Le Lapérouse, the first of 12 ships scheduled to call to West Cork over the coming months.

Bantry Bay will welcome a range of expedition, luxury, and midsize cruise ships bringing visitors from around the world to West Cork.

Operated by Ponant, Le Lapérouse is an expedition vessel launched in 2018, and carrying up to 184 guests.

The ship will anchor on Bantry inner, with guests disembarking to experience the scenery, culture, and hospitality of the local area.

The Bantry cruise schedule from April to August includes Douglas Mawson, Vasco da Gama, Hanseatic Nature, Deutschland, Spirit of Discovery, Le Champlain, Vista, Europa, Azamara Quest, and Insignia.

Strengthening

Ann Doherty, CEO of the Port of Cork company, said that Bantry Bay is strengthening its position as a cruise destination.

“The 2026 schedule reflects growing interest from international operators in West Cork’s unique offering, and complements the wider cruise activity across the Port of Cork,” said Ms Doherty.

“Together, these calls deliver real economic and cultural benefits for the region and we’re pleased to see Bantry playing an increasingly important role in Ireland’s cruise tourism landscape.”

Michael Pat Murphy, assistant harbour master at Bantry Bay port, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Le Lapérouse to Bantry Bay and officially open the 2026 cruise season. With 12 ships scheduled to visit this year, we’re expecting another strong season that will support local tourism and the wider West Cork economy.”

Meanwhile, to further promote Bantry Bay as a leading maritime destination, representatives from the Port of Cork company recently attended Seatrade Cruise Global 2026 in Miami, the largest international gathering in the cruise industry.

At the event, Bantry Bay was showcased as an ideal arrival point for superyachts visiting Ireland for high-profile events, including the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in Limerick.