Cork towns to welcome cruise ships this summer

Cork County Council’s 2026 cruise season is to include eight cruise ship calls scheduled between May and September at the council-managed harbours of Kinsale and Youghal, along with Bere Island.

The season will welcome over 1,840 passengers and more than 1,170 crew, delivering economic and social benefits to coastal communities across the county.

The 2026 cruise programme features premium and expedition cruise operators, including Ponant, who will operate five of the eight scheduled calls, as well as HapagLloyd Cruises and Swan Hellenic.

Kinsale Harbour will host six cruise calls, welcoming vessels such as Le Lyrial, Le Bellot, L’Austral, Le Champlain, Europa and SH Diana.

The cruise season in Kinsale will begin on Sunday, May 10, with the arrival of Le Lyrial, a visit that coincides with Sea Sunday.

Europa by HapagLloyd Cruises, one of the world’s most prestigious luxury cruise ships, will visit in August, carrying more than 400 passengers.

Bere Island will welcome Island Sky by Noble Caledonia in September 2026, showcasing the area’s heritage, landscapes and local community. Youghal Harbour will host a cruise call in May with Le Lyrial.

Commenting on the schedule, Mayor of the County of Cork, Mary Linehan Foley, said: “The 2026 cruise season reflects the continued strength of Cork’s harbour network and the confidence international cruise operators have in our coastal destinations.

“Each visit brings real benefits for local businesses and communities.

“As a proud Youghal woman, I’m especially delighted to see a cruise call returning to my hometown in 2026, giving visitors the chance to experience Youghal’s exceptional heritage, seaside setting and warm hospitality.

“Cruise tourism plays an important role in supporting sustainable economic activity right across county Cork.”