Port information & tips for Waterford
Waterford is Ireland's oldest city and welcomes travelers with a fascinating blend of Viking heritage and elegant craftsmanship. The charming port city on the River Suir delights with its medieval alleys and the vibrant Viking Triangle, where history becomes immediately tangible thanks to impressive monuments such as Reginald’s Tower and the Medieval Museum. Another highlight is the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal factory, which presents glass artworks of the highest quality. Most cruise ships dock at Belview Port, the Port of Waterford. From this berth about seven kilometers away, guests can reach the city center directly in a short time thanks to organized shuttle connections to explore the rich culture and maritime flair in a relaxed way.
Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, welcomes cruise guests in various harbor areas: smaller ships use piers close to the city, while larger cruise ships call at Belview Port. Very large ships often anchor off the picturesque fishing village of Dunmore East, from where a comfortable transfer to the ship and into the city is organized. The port is easily accessible thanks to good road connections and efficient transfer options.
Car
Waterford is excellently connected to the Irish road network and is easily reachable by car. The M9 motorway connects the port directly with Dublin, while the N25 national road allows for a quick journey from Cork. For guests using Belview Port, secure parking facilities, including e-charging stations and overflow parking lots, are available. In the city center, the Port of Waterford also offers paid parking at the South Quays, such as at Merchants Quay near the bus station or at Clyde Wharf.
Train
The central railway station for Waterford is Plunkett Station, which offers regular train connections from major cities such as Dublin and Cork. A train journey from Dublin's Heuston Station to Waterford usually takes about 2.5 hours. From the station, you can easily reach the various landing stages or the city center, where most sights are located, by taxi or local bus lines.
Airplane
For international guests from the DACH region, Dublin Airport (DUB) and Cork Airport (ORK) are the nearest major airports. Dublin Airport (DUB) is located about 170-179 kilometers away and can be reached by car in around 1 hour 49 minutes. Direct bus connections (e.g., with J.J. Kavanagh & Sons) from Dublin Airport to Waterford bus station run hourly and take about 2 hours 55 minutes. Cork Airport (ORK) is also a good option, at approximately 127-135 kilometers away and a driving time of about 1 hour 37 minutes by car. Bus travel from Cork Airport usually requires a transfer at Cork bus station and takes between 2 hours 14 minutes and 3 hours 6 minutes. Due to the travel distances, an overnight stay in one of the hotels in Waterford or near the airport on the day before embarkation is recommended to start your cruise adventure relaxed.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
