Cruise ship drops anchor for first time in Baltimore
Baltimore said ahoy there to a cruise ship for the first time when it recently called to the harbour.
Noble Caledonia’s Island Sky, a luxurious small expedition cruise ship, provided a point of interest for visitors and locals throughout the day, as it nestled in Baltimore’s large natural harbour, which is formed partly by the islands of the archipelago known as Carbery’s Hundred Isles.
Many of the ship’s 90 passengers transferred to Baltimore in the morning, and then to Sherkin Island in the afternoon. They remained in the local area, and availed of activities including walking tours focused on Baltimore’s maritime heritage, and visits to the wonderful studios on Sherkin, ‘the island of the arts’.
The cruise passengers and members of the ship’s 81-strong crew also had time to explore Baltimore and Sherkin for themselves, browsing crafts and enjoying West Cork’s food and drink, as well as meeting the locals.
On leaving Baltimore, the ship made the short journey along the West Cork coast to Bere Island. Passengers were tendered directly from the ship to Bere Island where they were treated to tours taking in the Lonehort Battery, the Martello Tower and Bere Island Heritage Centre, while others were given an opportunity to learn about the island’s history. They finished off the day with some live music and a drink in Dessie’s Bar.
The ship’s 12-day Wild Ireland tour, which began in Dublin on 5 August, is tracing the rugged coastline of Ireland, visiting the Skelligs, Galway, the Aran Islands, and Killybegs among other ports before passengers disembark in Liverpool.
Cllr Caroline Cronin, Chairperson of the West Cork Municipal District, and officials from Cork County Council, were welcomed onboard by the ship’s captain for a formal gift exchange to mark the ship’s inaugural visit to Baltimore Harbour.
Cllr Cronin said: “I am delighted to be associated with this inaugural cruise call to Baltimore. Today’s passengers visiting Sherkin Island and the ship’s onward journey to Bere Island present a welcome boost to our islands. Approximately 4,000 cruise passengers are expected to visit Cork County Council’s harbours in 2025, contributing to the local economy and supporting our tourism industry, while showcasing what makes County Cork so special to a growing number of international visitors.”