Cruise Ship Visit Ushers in New Wave of Marine Tourism to West Cork

The first cruise ship to visit Bantry Bay in 30 years arrived this week carrying over 800 passengers eager to explore the brand new destination on the cruise ship circuit.


Holland America Lines, MS Prinsendam made her maiden call to Bantry Bay Harbour this week and it’s hoped the arrival heralds a new wave of marine tourism for west cork.




Bantry Bay is looking to increase marine tourism in the area with a new €9.5 million inner harbour development opening in August set to enhance future cruise ship visits.


Speaking about the arrival of MS Prinsendam to Bantry, Bantry Bay Port Company Harbour Master Captain Paul O’Regan said, “We are very encouraged by Holland American Lines commitment to call to Bantry. This is an exciting time for the whole of West Cork as we aim to grow this cruise business considerably over the next few years.”

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Daniel Farrell
Interested in all things on the Irish coast and sharing the best of it. // Email: Daniel@coastmonkey.ie // Follow on Twitter: @DanielsSeaViews