Belfast

Belfast Port Guide

Belfast, Northern Ireland Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Belfast, a resilient and dynamic capital city rich in maritime history, cultural heritage, and legendary Northern Irish hospitality.

Major cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line frequently dock here during their popular British Isles itineraries.

Passengers are drawn to the city's world-famous Titanic legacy, vibrant traditional music scene, and proximity to dramatic coastal landscapes.


Key Belfast Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

A short drive from the pier brings visitors to Titanic Belfast, a world-class interactive museum located where the famous vessel was built, along with the adjacent historic tender SS Nomadic and the Harland & Wolff Drawing Offices.

In the city center, guests can admire the grand architecture of Belfast City Hall or take a driver guide to explore the historic Belfast Peace Wall and political murals along Belfast Falls Road and Shankill.

History enthusiasts can explore the Victorian-era prison at Crumlin Road Gaol or visit the restored World War I light cruiser HMS Caroline, all easily reachable during a standard port stop.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

A popular day trip along the scenic Antrim Coast Road takes cruise travelers to the cliffside ruins of Dunluce Castle, located about 60 miles north of the port with a driving time of approximately 1.5 hours.

Fans of dramatic scenery and television filming locations can explore the atmospheric beech tree avenue known as the Dark Hedges or the picturesque Ballintoy Harbour, both about an hour's drive from the pier.

Closer to the city, the well-preserved medieval fortress of Carrickfergus Castle sits just 11 miles northeast of the harbor and can be reached in roughly 20 minutes.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Port Location

Cruise ships typically dock at Stormont Wharf or Pollock Dock within Belfast Cruise Port, located approximately 3 miles north of the city center.

Because the dockland area is industrial, walking directly to downtown attractions is not recommended for safety and convenience.

Most cruise lines organize shuttle buses to the central shopping district, and taxis are readily available at the pier exit; a temporary welcome terminal provides maps and tourist assistance upon arrival.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Local Currency

The local currency in Northern Ireland is the British Pound Sterling (GBP).

While US dollars and Euros are generally not accepted by local retailers, credit and debit cards are universally accepted across stores, restaurants, and attractions.

Automated teller machines (ATMs) and currency exchange facilities are readily available throughout the city center, especially near Belfast City Hall.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Safety Considerations

Belfast is considered a very safe destination for cruise travelers, with a welcoming atmosphere and low rates of violent crime against tourists.

Standard travel precautions should be observed, such as keeping personal valuables secure and remaining alert in crowded shopping areas.

Independent exploration on foot, by taxi, or via organized transit is straightforward and safe, making guided tours optional depending on personal preference.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Weather & Climate

During the primary cruise season from May through September, daytime temperatures typically range from comfortable highs of 60°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C).

The climate in Northern Ireland is famously variable, with light rain showers frequently occurring alongside sunny intervals.

Cruise passengers are advised to dress in layers and carry a waterproof jacket or umbrella regardless of the morning weather conditions.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Getting Around

Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal, and popular Black Cab Tours offer custom historical sightseeing drives around the city center.

Public bus and train networks operated by Translink offer reliable connections throughout the city and to regional coastal towns.

Ride-sharing platforms like Uber operate within the city, making trips between the port and hubs like the Belfast Cathedral Quarter quick and affordable.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Shopping

The city offers excellent shopping options, particularly around the glass-domed Victoria Square Shopping Centre and surrounding pedestrian streets.

Popular local souvenirs include authentic Irish linen, local craft whiskeys, hand-knit tweed items, and regional artisanal foods.

Retail prices are fixed across commercial stores, and non-UK residents may be eligible for Value Added Tax (VAT) refund schemes on qualifying high-value items.

Last updated on October 24, 2026

Shore Excursions & Tours

Cab Tours Belfast Famous Black Taxi Tours

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★ 5.0 (4,020)

As the only company in Belfast owned by a Catholic and a Protestant, we provide a non-biased tour on the past Troubles in Northern Ireland. Please note that not all our cabs are London black taxis.

A History of Terror - Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

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★ 5.0 (3,248)

During this 2.5-hour city center journey, local expert guides explain how the Troubles started and visit the locations of key historical events. You will learn about the path to peace, the realities of growing up, and the challenges the future may hold.

Private Black Taxi Belfast City Tour

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★ 5.0 (2,414)

As Belfast's longest-established company with over 25 years of experience, we provide educational tours led by locals from both communities who lived through the city's turbulent past. These tours blend Irish humor with stories of the Troubles and a focus on building a better future for everyone.

Belfast's Political Mural Taxi Tour

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★ 5.0 (1,442)

Belfast.tours provides professional, informative, and thought-provoking mural taxi tours led by guides with over 20 years of experience who lived through the recent conflict. These real people use their natural storytelling gifts to share the real stories behind each mural.

Belfast Black Taxi Tour: Private Journey Through History

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★ 5.0 (1,402)

N.i.black taxi tours is Belfast’s leading taxi tour company, offering journeys through history, culture, and conflict that include the world's biggest outdoor art gallery. Their famous tours are led by local guides who lived in the shadow of the peace wall.

Belfast Troubles Tour: Walls and Bridges

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★ 5.0 (1,102)

The Troubles Tour: Walls and Bridges is an astounding mix of walking tour and street theatre that uses original songs and lived experience to explain the daily realities of the Troubles. This immersive experience brings history to life in a non-chronological way to portray the city, its people, and its conflicts.

Famous 1.5 hour Belfast Murals Tour

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★ 5.0 (643)

Led by local guides who lived through the conflict, this immersive tour brings the history of the Troubles in Belfast and beyond to life through personal narratives rather than textbooks. The atmosphere is interactive and engaging, with participants encouraged to ask questions throughout.

Iconic Belfast Black Cab Tour

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★ 5.0 (478)

Maximize your time in Belfast with an experienced and accredited guide on a tour conducted in an iconic Black Taxi. You will see the main sites and gain deep insight into the messages behind the political murals.

Best of Belfast Walking Tour

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★ 5.0 (439)

Starting at City Hall, this essential Best of Belfast walking tour features award-winning local expert guides who were born and bred in the city. They share the history, street art, and architecture of Belfast, including unique stories of its citizens throughout the centuries.

Belfast Bike Tours

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★ 5.0 (381)

This effortless tour uses step-through bikes to cover miles more ground than walking, accessing narrow alleys and car-free river paths that buses cannot reach. All bike hire and an expert local navigator are included, allowing for a stress-free experience without logistical worries.

Giants Causeway & Antrim Coast Private Tour

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★ 5.0 (277)

First Class Chauffeur Services NI offers tours of the North Antrim Coast and the Giant's Causeway, which are Northern Ireland's main scenic attractions. Their driver-guides are experienced, friendly, and humorous professionals who have been delivering these tours for many years.

If Buildings Could Talk Tour

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★ 5.0 (238)

This leisurely walking tour through Belfast City Center is billed as the city's most entertaining, sharing the unusual and interesting stories behind its buildings. Participants hear the tales these structures would tell if they could talk.

Luxury Giants Causeway Tour in Mercedes + FREE Belfast Mural Tour

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★ 5.0 (174)

This award-winning tour is conducted in a luxury Mercedes vehicle by guides with years of experience providing world-class, memory-making tours. The provider has received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for every year they have been in business.

The Real Story of Belfast walking tour with a local guide

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★ 5.0 (152)

This guaranteed small-group guided walk through Belfast’s streets and alleys offers an exclusive 5-star experience rich in history, culture, politics, and industrial heritage. Guests are encouraged to interact and ask questions as they explore buildings and streets that each have a story to tell.

Black Taxi Mural "Tour Like A Local"

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★ 5.0 (127)

Experience Belfast from a local's perspective in an iconic Black Taxi Cab with an accredited guide who explains events from 1969 to the present while visiting the Falls and Shankill Road neighborhoods. Time at each location is flexible and dependent on guest interaction at the main sites.

Private Luxury Small Group Giant’s Causeway Tour from Belfast

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★ 5.0 (125)

Explore the Causeway Coast's history, legend, and natural beauty in comfort on this journey to hand-picked iconic sights. The tour includes the world-famous Giant’s Causeway and the Old Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery.

Private 1 Hour Belfast Taxi cab Tour

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★ 5.0 (93)

This journey into Ireland’s past is led by guides from both sides of the divide who lived through the most recent conflict. They provide a narrative from both perspectives of a conflict where people lost their lives.

2 Hours Republican & Loyalist Mural Black Taxi Tour from Belfast

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★ 5.0 (55)

This tour is led by original black cab drivers who risked their lives through the bullets and bombs of the Troubles to transport their communities. They provide a unique perspective on Belfast's 30-year conflict and share stories behind the murals that have made the North of Ireland famous.

Belfast: Explore McConnells Rare Premium Belfast Whisky Tasting

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★ 5.0 (54)

This 90-minute immersion led by whiskey specialists offers a private tasting in a high-end environment within the historic A-Wing of a prison. It includes the exclusive opportunity to purchase distillery-only releases with personalized advice from your guide.

1798 A Belfast Rebellion Walking Tour

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★ 5.0 (36)

This 2.5-hour city center walking tour uncovers Georgian Belfast and the story of the United Irishmen from their formation to the 1798 Rebellion and its suppression. Starting and finishing at City Hall, the tour visits important sites and highlights individuals who hoped for a better future.

Local SIM Card

GigSky eSIMs let you get data both on the ship and while in port. Their Cruise + Europe plan and Cruise + World plan both cover Belfast as well as supported cruise ships. Choose the data allowance and duration that suit your trip, with a 7-day Cruise + Europe plan starting at only $19.99 USD for 1 GB.

Visiting Belfast Cruise Deals

PRICE DROP
12 Night London to London cruise
April 7, 2027
Majestic Princess
S M L XL
London → Falmouth, England → Cork → Dublin → Liverpool → Belfast → Glasgow → Invergordon → Edinburgh → Paris → London
$1,993
$166 per day
Outside
12 Night London to London cruise
April 19, 2027
Majestic Princess
S M L XL
London → Falmouth, England → Cork → Dublin → Liverpool → Belfast → Glasgow → Invergordon → Edinburgh → Paris → London
$2,859
$238 per day
Suite
10 Night Hamburg to Hamburg cruise
April 25, 2027
10 Night British Isles Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.94/5)
MSC Preziosa
S M L XL
Hamburg → Edinburgh → Kirkwall → Stornoway → Glasgow → Belfast → Liverpool → Hamburg
$1,823
$182 per day
Balcony
LOWEST PRICE EVER
14 Night Tilbury to Bergen cruise
March 31, 2027
14 Night British Isles Explorer
CruiseScore™ (5.00/5)
Viking Libra
S M L XL
Tilbury → Tilbury → London → Dublin → Holyhead → Liverpool → Belfast → Ullapool → Kirkwall → Edinburgh → Aberdeen → Lerwick → Bergen → Bergen
$10,999
$786 per day
Suite
PRICE DROP
12 Night London to London cruise
May 1, 2027
Majestic Princess
S M L XL
London → Falmouth, England → Cork → Dublin → Liverpool → Belfast → Glasgow → Invergordon → Edinburgh → Paris → London
$3,409
$284 per day
Suite

Upcoming Cruises to Belfast Cruise Deals

PRICE DROP
12 Night London to London cruise
April 7, 2027
Majestic Princess
S M L XL
London → Falmouth, England → Cork → Dublin → Liverpool → Belfast → Glasgow → Invergordon → Edinburgh → Paris → London
$1,993
$166 per day
Outside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
14 Night Tilbury to Bergen cruise
March 31, 2027
14 Night British Isles Explorer
CruiseScore™ (5.00/5)
Viking Libra
S M L XL
Tilbury → Tilbury → London → Dublin → Holyhead → Liverpool → Belfast → Ullapool → Kirkwall → Edinburgh → Aberdeen → Lerwick → Bergen → Bergen
$10,999
$786 per day
Suite
LOWEST PRICE EVER
14 Night Tilbury to Bergen cruise
April 2, 2027
14 Night British Isles Explorer
CruiseScore™ (5.00/5)
Viking Vela
S M L XL
Tilbury → Tilbury → London → Dublin → Holyhead → Liverpool → Belfast → Ullapool → Kirkwall → Edinburgh → Aberdeen → Lerwick → Bergen → Bergen
$11,499
$821 per day
Suite
LOWEST PRICE EVER
7 Night London to London cruise
March 31, 2027
7 Night Ireland & England Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.62/5)
Majestic Princess
S M L XL
London → Falmouth, England → Cork → Dublin → Belfast → Liverpool → London
$2,079
$297 per day
Suite
37 Night Miami to London cruise
April 9, 2027
Oceania Insignia
S M L XL
Miami → King's Wharf → La Palma → Lanzarote → Tenerife → Funchal → Lisbon → Porto → A Coruna → Bilbao → Biarritz → Bordeaux → St. Malo → St. Peter Port → London → Newcastle upon Tyne → Edinburgh → Invergordon → Glasgow → Belfast → Dublin → Holyhead → Waterford → Fowey → London
$14,449
$391 per day
Inside

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of Belfast port area
Belfast port location
Costa ship
MSC ship In port
Cunard ship
© OpenStreetMap · © ESA WorldCover 2021

Showing 3 ships in the area

No ships scheduled in port today.

Other Cruise Ports in Northern Ireland

Frequently Asked Questions about Belfast

Last updated on June 13, 2025

❓ 1. What is the best way to get from the cruise terminal to the main attractions?

Most cruise lines provide complimentary shuttle buses from the cruise terminal to Belfast city centre; taxis are also readily available at the terminal.

❓ 2. What are the must-see attractions and landmarks within walking distance or a short ride from the port?

Must-see attractions include Titanic Belfast, located near the port, Belfast City Hall, and the historic Crumlin Road Gaol; political murals are best seen on a guided tour.

❓ 3. What local foods or restaurants should I try near the port?

Sample a traditional Ulster Fry, enjoy fish and chips, or try some local stew in a pub; the Cathedral Quarter has many dining options.

❓ What is the local currency and what is the exchange rate?

The local currency is Pound Sterling (1 USD = 0.74 GBP). Pound Sterling (GBP) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in the city centre for cash withdrawals, and most establishments accept credit cards.

❓ 5. What is the typical weather when cruises visit, and what should I pack?

Belfast experiences mild, often wet, weather year-round, so pack layers including a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes.

❓ 6. Are there good beaches nearby, and how do I get to them?

While Belfast isn't known for beaches directly at the port, scenic coastal spots like Helen's Bay are accessible by a short train ride from the city centre.

❓ 7. What are the best shore excursion options - through the cruise line or independent?

Popular shore excursions visit the Giant's Causeway and the Antrim Coast; booking through the cruise line offers convenience, while independent tours can provide more flexibility.

❓ 8. What shopping opportunities are available, and what are good local souvenirs?

Victoria Square and Donegall Place offer diverse shopping; look for local souvenirs like Irish linen, Belleek pottery, whiskey, or Celtic-themed gifts.

❓ 9. What other interesting places or towns are within a reasonable distance to visit?

Consider excursions to the scenic Antrim Coast including the Giant's Causeway, or visit historic sites like Carrickfergus Castle, a short journey from Belfast.

❓ 10. What's a surprising or interesting fact about Belfast, Northern Ireland?

Belfast is home to CS Lewis Square, dedicated to the 'Chronicles of Narnia' author, featuring bronze sculptures from 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'.

Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Belfast

On average cruises that visit Belfast are moderately expensive compared to other itineraries. Cruises visiting Belfast during the peak seasons of winter, spring, and summer are considerably more expensive than the the low season of fall. Take a look at the chart below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$499
Feb
Mar
$491
Apr
$508
May
$506
Jun
$544
Jul
$493
Aug
$424
Sep
$444
Oct
$165
Nov
Dec
$471

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