Bantry Bay Port Company will mark the beginning of its 2026 cruise season on April 26 with the arrival of the Le Lapérouse, the first of 12 cruise vessels scheduled to call this year, according to a press release.
Across the season, Bantry Bay will welcome a mix of expedition, luxury and mid-size cruise ships.
“Bantry Bay continues to strengthen its position as a standout destination on Ireland’s cruise map,” said Ann Doherty, chief executive officer at the Port of Cork Company.
“The 2026 schedule reflects growing interest from international operators in West Cork’s unique offering, and complements the wider cruise activity across the Port of Cork.”
Operated by Ponant, the Le Lapérouse is an expedition vessel launched in 2018, carrying up to 184 guests.
The ship will anchor at Bantry Inner during its visit.
“We’re delighted to welcome Le Lapérouse to Bantry Bay and officially open the 2026 cruise season,” said Michael Pat Murphy, assistant harbour master at Bantry Bay Port.
“With 12 ships scheduled to visit this year, we’re expecting another strong season that will support local tourism and the wider West Cork economy.”
Representatives from the Port of Cork Company recently attended Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, where Bantry Bay was showcased as an arrival point for superyachts visiting Ireland for events such as the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in Limerick.
This year’s schedule features calls from the Douglas Mawson, Vasco da Gama, Hanseatic Nature, Deutschland, Spirit of Discovery, Le Champlain, Vista, Europa, Azamara Quest and Insignia, with arrivals from April to August.
