Construction is progressing on a significant £90m deepwater cruise quay at the mouth of Belfast Harbour, a project designed to future-proof the region's maritime infrastructure.

Scheduled to be fully operational by 2028, the new quay and terminal will be capable of accommodating the world's largest cruise vessels, significantly enhancing the port's capacity and the overall visitor experience.

The development comes as Cruise Belfast—the partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast—celebrates 30 years of cruise tourism in the city. The 2026 summer season is set to launch on 1 April with the arrival of the 'Bolette', the first of 141 scheduled calls. This year's programme includes 10 inaugural visits and a notable increase in "turnaround" calls, which have risen to 13 from seven in the previous year.

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Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA commented on the importance of the project: "The cruise industry is a crucial driver of our regional infrastructure and economic prosperity. Seeing Belfast Harbour's growth into the busiest cruise ship port on the island is a fantastic achievement. My department remains committed to supporting the infrastructure that allows our ports to thrive and drive regional growth."

The ongoing capital investment in the deepwater facilities is a central part of Belfast Harbour's long-term strategy. Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, said: "Our ongoing investment in the port including new deepwater quay facilities underscores our commitment to ensuring Belfast remains a top-tier destination for cruise tourism for the next 25 years and beyond."

Since 1996, the industry has evolved from just two ship visits to becoming a vital economic pillar, contributing an estimated £26 million annually to the Northern Ireland economy. The 2026 season will also feature seven overnight stays, providing further opportunities for passenger spend within the region.

Gerry Lennon, CEO of Visit Belfast, added: "The 30th anniversary marks the positive impact cruise tourism has brought to our city. Our strategic partnership with Belfast Harbour has never been stronger and we are ready for a new season."