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The boutique luxury vessel Island Sky arrived in Warrenpoint Harbour on Monday past, 18 August, marking another splendid moment in the town’s growing profile as an exclusive cruise destination. Operated by Noble Caledonia, the ship offers its guests an intimate travel experience, bringing them into the heart of Mourne, Gullion and Strangford to discover its natural beauty, heritage and warm hospitality.
The visit was part of Warrenpoint’s growing cruise schedule for 2025, which will see four vessels visit the port. Each arrival delivers a welcome boost to the local economy and adds cultural vibrancy to the district, with guests enjoying a range of experiences within the district.
To celebrate the vessel’s inaugural call to Warrenpoint, a plaque exchange took place on board between the ship’s captain and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Geraldine Kearns. The ceremony symbolised the strong ties that are being built between the region and the international cruise community.
Deputy Chairperson Councillor Geraldine Kearns said, “The arrival of Island Sky in Warrenpoint brings yet more opportunity to showcase the beauty, history and culture of our district. This visit along with the other cruise calls we've welcomed this year reinforces our position as a flourishing maritime destination and provides a significant boost to our local economy. I was delighted to welcome the captain and crew personally and to present them with a commemorative plaque marking their first visit to Warrenpoint. We look forward to welcoming many more cruise passengers to the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark in the years ahead.”
David Holmes, Chief Executive of Warrenpoint Harbour Authority, added, “It is a pleasure to welcome the Island Sky and its guests to Warrenpoint. Cruise tourism is an exciting and growing part of our harbour’s activity, and each visit is the result of strong partnerships between the Port, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, tourism providers, and our local communities. The feedback from passengers has been fantastic, and we are confident that our unique location, coupled with the warmth of our welcome, will ensure Warrenpoint continues to attract more cruise calls in the years ahead.”
The Council works closely with Excursions Ireland, Warrenpoint Harbour Authority, and local business groups to ensure visitors enjoy a seamless experience while maximising the benefits for local traders. The Island Sky can accommodate up to 112 guests. With its intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a private yacht, its size and design allow it to access more remote and scenic destinations, making it the perfect fit for the immersive tourism experience offered by the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark.
