Final harbour call marks end of cruise season

ONE of the most luxurious ships in the world docked at Dun Laoghaire Harbour last week, marking the end of the summer cruise season.

The Wind Surf, the largest ship in the Windstar Cruises fleet, arrived at the port after a hugely successful series of cruise dockings at the harbour this spring and summer.

The Wind Surf, one part sailing yacht and one part upscale cruise ship, has seven triangular, self-furling, computer operated sails, making a stunning ship.

The ship, known for its luxurious amenities and unique ports of call, carries 312 guests and 191 international staff.

The cruise ship’s docking at the harbour coincided with Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company’s recent announcement that 2015 will be the most successful year ever for Dun Laoghaire in terms of attracting cruise passengers to the harbour.

A total of 23 cruise vessels have already been confirmed to visit Dun Laoghaire next year.

The size of these ships mean they will bring a record 66,867 passengers to the seaside town.

Speaking ahead of the docking of the Wind Surf, Gerry Dunne, CEO of Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company, said:

“Since 2012, due to the attractiveness of Dun Laoghaire and its wonderful harbour, the number of cruise bookings has grown exponentially and 2015 will be the most successful year ever for Dun Laoghaire in terms of attracting cruise passengers to the harbour.

“We welcome cruise ships of all shapes and sizes and are delighted that the Wind Surf is docking at Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

He added:

“Cruise passengers provide a valuable source of business for retail outlets and restaurants, which will deliver a huge economic boost for the town and its hinterland.

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