Kinsale to welcome at least six cruise ships next year 

Four cruise liners brought almost 1,800 passengers and crew to the Co Cork town in 2026, providing a valuable boost to tourism. At least two more will visit in 2027

Tourists getting a guided tour of Kinsale. Cork County Council municipal district officer for Bandon-Kinsale Brian Dunne outlined the welcome extended to visitors including a showcase of Irish traditional music song and dance on the pier. File picture: Dan Linehan

One of Cork's premier tourist towns is set to benefit from even more cruise ship visits next year, with at least six now confirmed.

Kinsale saw four ships with a combined 1,100 passengers visit the historic harbour town during the recent summer season, but at least two more will further boost the town's economy in 2027.

Local municipal district officer Brian Dunne outlined the position at a meeting of the Bandon/Kinsale Municipal District Council last summer’s visits.

This year, the town hosted Le Lyrial, carrying 245 passengers and 145 crew; Le Bellot with 184 passengers and 118 crew; and L'Austral with 264 passengers and 145 crew. All three belong to the French cruise liner company Ponant.

“We also welcomed the Europa (Hapag-Lloyd Cruises), carrying 408 passengers and 285 crew. As part of Ireland's EU presidency celebrations, passengers and visitors arriving aboard Europa were treated to a lively cultural welcome on the pier. 

"The Cork Cultural Show showcased traditional Irish music, song, and dance, creating a vibrant atmosphere and providing guests with a memorable introduction to Irish culture and hospitality,” Mr Dunne said.

He said a special gift exchange was also held on the pier to commemorate Europa's visit to Kinsale.

“The exchange highlighted the strong relationship between the cruise industry and the local community and served as a fitting recognition of the vessel's call to the harbour. 

"Independent councillor Alan Coleman, chairman of the Bandon-Kinsale Municipal District, attended the occasion alongside representatives from Cork County Council,” Mr Dunne said.

The 2026 cruise season brought almost 1,800 passengers and crew to Kinsale, providing a valuable contribution to local tourism, hospitality, and visitor spending within the town and surrounding area, while also showcasing Kinsale as an attractive destination for the international cruise market, he said.

“Looking ahead, six cruise ship calls are currently scheduled for Kinsale in 2027,” Mr Dunne added.

On a continuing nautical note, he said that the famous Galleon Mast on the main pier had been removed for €120,000 conservation work, which is nearing completion.

“The works represent a significant investment in preserving and maintaining this important landmark for the community and visitors alike,” Mr Dunne said.

Le Bellot was one of the cruise liners returning to Kinsale Co Cork last year. Cork County Council municipal district officer for Bandon-Kinsale Brian Dunne said the town would welcome at least six in 2027. File picture: John Allen

The project has been funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

In another move to make the town more attractive to visitors, the county council has run a successful programme to train up more volunteers to help run the Kinsale museum, which has undergone significant upgrades in recent times.

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