Belfast Harbour will launch its 2026 summer cruise season on 1 April. The event marks 30 years since the first cruise vessel arrived there in 1996.

The 2026 season schedules 141 cruise calls. Fred Olsen Cruise Line's Bolette will arrive first. Ten ships will visit Belfast for the first time.

Turnaround cruises will increase to 13 from seven in 2025. Passengers start and end journeys at Belfast on these calls.

The industry adds £26 million yearly to the Northern Ireland economy.

A £90 million deepwater cruise quay is under construction at the port entrance. Completion is set for 2028 to handle larger ships.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA stated the cruise sector supports regional infrastructure and economic growth. She called Belfast Harbour's position as the island's busiest cruise port an achievement.

Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, noted growth from two visits in 1996 to a major industry that creates jobs and adds activity to the waterfront. She mentioned port investments including the new quay to maintain Belfast's status.

Gerry Lennon, CEO of Visit Belfast, said the anniversary shows cruise tourism's benefits to the city and its partnership with the harbour.