‘Le Boréal’ given a warm welcome to Warrenpoint
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Warrenpoint Harbour Authority and Warrenpoint, Burren and Rostrevor (WBR) Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the luxury cruise ship ‘Le Boréal’ to the port of Warrenpoint on Tuesday (May 20, as part of its voyage around the British Isles.
This high-profile visit marks a significant milestone in Warrenpoint’s growing reputation as a premier cruise destination. It also showcases the rising popularity of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, which continues to draw increasing numbers of international visitors to the region.
Operated by French luxury cruise line Ponant, Le Boréal brought over 200 passengers to explore the unique natural and cultural treasures of the district, including the majestic Mourne Mountains, the Ring of Gullion, and the scenic shores of Strangford Lough. Visitors enjoyed curated excursions and experiences that highlight the region’s rich heritage, culture and warm local hospitality.
Council Chairperson, Cllr Pete Byrne said, “Newry Mourne and Down District Council was delighted to welcome Le Boréal and its guests to Warrenpoint and our spectacular Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. The rising number of cruise visits to our shores reflects growing global interest in our unique landscapes, rich heritage and warm hospitality. This visit is another step forward in positioning our district as a world-class tourism destination.”
Warrenpoint Harbour Authority Chief Executive, David Holmes said, “It is a great pleasure to welcome Le Boréal to Warrenpoint. We have invested in making our port cruise-ready and are delighted to see those efforts paying off as more luxury vessels include Warrenpoint in their itineraries. Cruise calls like this bring real value to our local economy and help us tell the incredible story of this region to the world.”
WBR Chamber of Commerce President, Colleen Dowdall added, “The arrival of Le Boréal is a proud moment for our local business community. Cruise tourism creates fantastic opportunities to showcase our artisans, shops and cultural experiences. We are committed to working with our partners to ensure Warrenpoint thrives as a vibrant and sustainable tourism hub.”
Warrenpoint Harbour Authority Chairperson, Dr Gerard O’Hare said, ”With collaboration across Council, Commerce and Port Authorities, Warrenpoint continues to be a recognised gateway to Northern Ireland’s most captivating landscapes and is a shining example of sustainable, experience-led tourism; following in the centuries long proud maritime history of the area.”