Location & Transportation
- Belfast serves cruise itineraries using several docks:
- D1 Belfast Cruise Terminal is the main terminal for cruise calls. Opened in 2019, it can accommodate ships with up to 6,000 passengers and crew. There you’ll find a smart cruise visitor information centre, a gift shop, comfortable seating areas, and easy access for shuttle buses and taxis.
- Stormont Dock is used for smaller cruise ships.
- Pollock Dock accommodates turnaround ships starting or ending their cruise here.
- Shuttles run between the harbor and the city center near the Belfast Welcome Centre (Tourist Office) at 9 Donegall Sq North, opposite City Hall. These shuttle services are typically announced the evening before arrival. Note that some shuttle services require a cash payment (around £10).
- Taxis are a convenient option too, with fares typically around £10–£13 one way depending on which dock your ship uses.
Sightseeing
Belfast’s compact city centre is perfect for exploring on foot. If you want to start your day with local insights, the Belfast Welcome Centre (Tourist Office) is your go-to spot for maps, tour bookings, and recommendations. Some highlights include:
- Titanic Belfast Museum
An award-winning museum detailing the city’s maritime heritage and the story of the Titanic. It’s a must-visit—be sure to purchase tickets in advance at Titanic Belfast. - Strolling around the historic city centre lets you admire impressive murals that tell the story of Belfast’s past.
- Other attractions include City Hall and charming streets filled with local shops and cafés.
Tours & Excursions
- Murals Taxi Tour: Book a 90-minute taxi tour at the cruise dock to see Belfast’s famous Catholic and Protestant murals that recount the city’s colorful history. Tours cost about £35 per taxi.
- Open-Top Bus Tours: Consider the open-top Belfast Sightseeing bus tour. For roughly £19 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour journey that covers the city centre and suburbs, including views of historic murals, the shipyards where the Titanic was built, and the prestigious Queens University.
- Giants Causeway Excursion: If you have extra time, a trip to the legendary Giants Causeway is highly recommended. Often hailed as the eighth wonder of the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning natural views on Northern Ireland’s rugged coast.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
- St. George’s Market: Located on May Street near Belfast Central Station, this is Northern Ireland’s largest indoor market. It’s not only a great place to pick up locally made crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs, but it also offers a fascinating glimpse into Belfast’s vibrant community. The market hosts special events on Saturdays, Sundays, and Fridays, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Dining
Belfast has a rich food scene with options ranging from traditional Irish pubs to modern eateries. Some great ways to enjoy local cuisine include:
- Sampling an authentic Irish breakfast or the famous Ulster Fry at a traditional café.
- Enjoying hearty Irish stews and soda bread in a historic pub.
- Exploring the trendy Cathedral Quarter, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of restaurants serving fresh seafood, artisanal burgers, and international dishes.
Culture & Local Events
- Local Insights:
- The local currency is the UK Pound Sterling (GBP).
- While English is the dominant language, you’ll often hear Irish (Gaeilge) spoken around town.
- Hours & Shopping:
- City centre shops generally open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (with some staying open until 9:00 pm on Thursdays) and select larger stores operate on Sundays (usually from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm).
- Many neighbourhood shops operate extended hours, with some even open 24 hours.
- Local Events & Festivals:
- Belfast hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, from music and arts festivals to food and heritage celebrations.
- Keep an eye out for events like the Belfast Festival at Queen’s and the lively celebrations in the Cathedral Quarter, which highlight the city’s creative spirit.
- Safety & Awareness:
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
- In case of an emergency, dial 999 or 112.