Port information & tips for Greencastle (Londonderry)
Greencastle is the charming gateway to County Donegal and the historic city of Londonderry in the north of Ireland. The picturesque village on Lough Foyle captivates with its authentic coastal atmosphere while offering an expansive view over the deep blue sea. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the Inishowen Maritime Museum with its planetarium, as well as the impressive ruins of Northburgh Castle from the 14th century. Thanks to excellent connections, the famous city walls of Derry and the Peace Bridge are also quickly accessible. Cruise ships use the sheltered anchorage in the Foyle, from where guests transfer by tender boat to Greencastle Pier and can comfortably reach the center of Londonderry, about 30 kilometers away, via shuttle bus.
The port of Greencastle (Londonderry) is a port of call for cruise ships in Northern Ireland, with embarkation usually taking place in Derry/Londonderry itself, often at Queen's Quay in the city center or at Lisahally.
Car
Derry/Londonderry is accessible via the well-developed A6 from the direction of Belfast and the A2 along the coast. From the west, the A5 (from Omagh) and the A32 (from the direction of Enniskillen) lead into the city. For cruise passengers arriving by car, there are various public multi-story car parks and parking spaces in Derry/Londonderry city center offering short and long-term parking options. It is recommended to obtain information in advance about specific Park & Cruise offers or the nearest parking facilities to the respective pier.
Train
Londonderry railway station is the terminus of the train line from Belfast. Regular train connections from Belfast Great Victoria Street (with a change at Belfast Lanyon Place) make the journey comfortable. From Londonderry railway station at Waterside, you can easily reach Queen's Quay or other embarkation areas in the city by taxi or a short bus transfer. The travel time by taxi to the center is only a few minutes.
Airplane
The nearest airport is City of Derry Airport (LDY), located about 13 kilometers northeast of the city. This airport primarily offers domestic connections within the United Kingdom. For international arrivals from the DACH region, Belfast International Airport (BFS) is the most relevant option, located about 90-100 kilometers southeast of Derry/Londonderry. The journey from BFS to Derry/Londonderry takes about 1.5 hours by car or bus. Alternatively, George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD), also located in Belfast, offers another option with a similar transfer time. Regular bus connections (e.g., Translink Goldline) and taxi services operate from both airports to Derry/Londonderry. Due to the travel time, a pre-cruise overnight stay in Derry/Londonderry or the surrounding area is recommended for international flights.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory 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 area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the cruise: 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 berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
