Dreaming of sailing the emerald waters and discovering Ireland’s lush landscapes? Good news: a cruise around the Emerald Isle is one of the most original (and often underrated) ways to explore this fascinating country. Authentic ports, dramatic cliffs, lively cities, and untamed nature… Cruising Ireland is like watching a moving postcard. But before you set sail, it’s essential to be well-prepared: what budget should you plan for? Which ports of call should you choose? Which cruise lines are best? Find all the answers in this comprehensive guide.
Ireland charms with its warm atmosphere, ancient culture, and landscapes where sea meets countryside. But discovering it from a cruise ship offers a unique experience: access to picturesque ports that are hard to reach by land, top-notch comfort onboard, and a new adventure every day.
A cruise also makes it easy to combine several countries in one trip. Most cruises to Ireland are part of a broader itinerary around Northern Europe or the British Isles. This means you can also visit Scotland, England, or even Norway—without having to repack every two days.
Book your Northern Europe cruise here: it’s a fantastic way to discover the Emerald Isle!
Here’s a selection of the most common stops on cruises in Ireland:
The cost of a cruise depends on several factors: trip duration, cruise line, cabin type, season, and included services. Here’s a summary table of average prices:
| Type of Cruise | Duration | Average Price per Person | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7-Day Cruise (Northern Europe with Ireland stops) | 7 nights | €800 to €1,200 | Accommodation, full board, entertainment |
| Premium Cruise (balcony cabin, excursions included) | 10-12 nights | €1,500 to €2,500 | + Excursions, drinks, sometimes return flights |
| All-Inclusive Cruise (high-end lines) | 14 nights | €2,800 and up | Luxury services, personalized service |
Note: Prices also vary depending on departure port (France, Germany, England) and season. July and August are the most expensive months, while May or September usually offer better deals.
Ireland has a mild but wet oceanic climate. The high tourist season runs from June to August, with pleasant temperatures (15°C to 20°C) but larger crowds. For more peace and often lower prices, consider traveling in May, September, or even early October.
Here are a few tips to make sure you don’t forget anything:
Several major cruise lines offer itineraries including Ireland: MSC, Costa, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Ponant, and Hurtigruten for more adventurous expeditions.
For a comprehensive overview of current offers, book your Northern Europe cruise on this site. It features a wide selection of cruises, often with great last-minute deals.
Here’s a tip for curious travelers: some cruises let you extend your adventure with a road trip across the island. For example, after disembarking in Dublin or Cobh, you can rent a car to explore inland Ireland before or after your cruise. It’s a great way to combine the comfort of a ship with the freedom of a road trip. For more info, check out our dedicated article: How to Plan a Road Trip in Ireland.
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