The Majestic Princess from Princess Cruises made its first visit to Belfast Harbour, signalling the start of the 2026 cruise season. The 330-metre vessel, weighing 143,700 tonnes with 19 decks, brought nearly 5,000 passengers and crew for a full-day stop.

Belfast Harbour expects 141 cruise ship calls this season, including 10 first-time visits. Cruise tourism will contribute an estimated £26m to the Northern Ireland economy. The port anticipates 13 turnaround operations where passengers embark and disembark, plus seven overnight stays by ships.

This year marks 30 years since cruise ships first arrived in Belfast in 1996. Belfast Harbour's port director Michael Robinson stated that the port invests in facilities to maintain its status as a key cruise destination for decades ahead. He noted the sector supports jobs and bolsters regional tourism.

Visit Belfast CEO Gerry Lennon said the Majestic Princess arrival highlights Belfast's attractions after three decades of cruise visits. He pointed out that the industry sustains thousands of jobs across multiple sectors.

A £90m deepwater cruise quay under construction at Belfast Harbour will open in 2028. The new facility will handle the largest cruise ships and improve visitor access.