Largest Ever Cruise Ship Docks In Belfast

The world's largest privately-owned cruise ship has docked in Belfast.

The MSC Meraviglia visited the region for a nine-hour stop as it sails Northern Europe in a landmark visit for the flourishing cruise tourism industry.

Over 5,300 guests from over 32 countries stepped foot in Belfast today to explore the city and surrounding areas, making it the largest ship by passenger capacity to ever visit the port.

With 12 unique dining venues, 20 bars and lounges and a Mediterraniean style-promenade featuring the longest LED Sky Screen at sea, the vessel brings a touch of glamour and luxury to the city, if only for a day.

Two years into the ship's operation, the maiden visit to Belfast comes amid a 17-night transatlantic cruise from Kiel, Germany to New York. Alongside Belfast on its list of stops are Copenhagen, Reykjavik and Halifax.

Managing Director at MSC Cruises UK and Ireland, Antonio Paradiso said the operator is delighted to bring the ship to Belfast in a landmark visit for the city's cruise tourism industry.

He said: "Belfast Harbour is an institution to shipping and we are proud to continue to support the expansion of the cruise business with one of the largest ships in our fleet calling at the port. We are delighted to be able to share such a beautiful part of the world with our guests."

Gerry Lennon, Chief Executive of Visit Belfast, welcomed the milestone and what it means for the region's reputation among cruise providers.

"Cruise tourism has become an important part of Belfast's tourism mix, bringing visitors from all over the world to the city, many of whom are here for the first time," Mr Lennon said.

"Together with our partners at Belfast Harbour, we're delighted to welcome MSC Meraviglia on its maiden call to Belfast.

"It's a real testament to how Northern Ireland has firmly established itself as a European cruise destination that Belfast has been included on the itinerary of MSC Meraviglia and I am confident that the passengers and crew will have a great time in the city and receive the warmest of Belfast welcomes."

MSC Meraviglia was set to dock in the Port of Belfast from 7am until 4pm.



(JG/MH)