World Explorer
cruise ship visits Foyle
12.05.25
THE North West is set for
a significant surge in cruise tourism this year. A total
of 17 cruise calls are scheduled between May and
September 2025. The first cruise ship of the season
arrived in Derry yesterday after having departed Galway
the previous evening.
Visiting as part of a 10-day “All Ireland Cruise”
itinerary, World Explorer is circumnavigating the
island, having departed from Nantes, France and
concluding her journey in Zeebrugge, Belgium.
Pictured below, the World Explorer cruise ship passed by Greencastle
yesterday morning, 11th May, at 11:30am on its way up
Lough Foyle to Derry. |
 |
Expedition and exploration
are the fastest-growing sectors of cruise tourism, a
trend that is clearly reflected in the calls to Foyle
Port with 65% of visiting cruise ships classed as luxury
expedition vessels.
Expedition ships are typically smaller, more agile
vessels designed to access remote locations. They offer
adventure-rich itineraries, educational programming with
regional experts, and often carry Zodiac landing craft
for off-ship exploration. They combine luxury and
learning, with an increasing focus on sustainability.
World Explorer is one of a
new generation of ice strengthened expedition ships that
combines onboard luxury with active exploration of the
Antarctic waters. She is distinguished by her sleek
design, fast cruising speed of 16 knots, and an
impressive range of facilities. She can accommodate up
to 172 passengers in a wide choice of spacious
comfortable cabins.
The cruise ship features six tiers of deluxe
accommodation, and the personal space is exceptional.
Each cabin is outfitted with all of the essential
amenities, including a private walk-out or Juliet-style
balcony for direct ocean views, an ensuite bathroom,
refrigerator and smart TV. |
 |
With 130 staff and crew
members, you will be made to feel most welcome aboard
the World Explorer. The family-friendly ship
offers its guests plenty of public areas for
relaxation, including the splendid glass-domed
Observation Lounge with its full skyline views and
wildlife watching opportunities.
World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to
unwind in after a day outdoors, including the Explorer
Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more
intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and
discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture
theatre. |
 |
Health and wellness
facilities feature an outdoor track, a small gym and a
sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and
lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include
kayaking, camping and stand-up paddle boarding.
Cruise ships set to anchor off Greencastle in 2025
include Europa on 23rd July, Island Sky on 13th August,
Seven Seas Grandeur on 21st August and Crystal Serenity
on 9th September.
To view the full cruise schedule, visit
www.foyleport.com . |
|
