Following the news that it's been named the second best cruise destination in Western Europe, plans have been put forth to construct a new €15 million cruise terminal at Cobh in County Cork.
According to the Irish Examiner, when built, the new terminal will capatilise upon the increasing number of cruise liners visiting the town as well as allow for the development of a cross-harbour ferry that will provide visitors with more straightforward access to the various tourist attractions the area has to offer.
Port of Cork commercial manager Captain Michael McCarthy, commented: "It is anticipated that the primary focus of the development at Cobh is to provide a sea bus terminal for maritime tourism in Cork harbour to ensure the visitor experience is first and foremost delivered by providing the right type of quality. We envisage it will be a multi-functional marine sports activity and tourism hub where kayaking, sailing, and marine tourism can all operate from."
He added: "Access to the harbour would greatly enhance the area also. Using modern efficient ferries will also improve the experience for the visitor. This berth would also have the capacity to accommodate any overflow of cruise vessels from the existing dedicated cruise berth at Cobh’s deepwater quay, which will remain the primary cruise berth for Cork harbour. This will assist the marine tourism element by potentially increasing the number of international visitors by an additional 50,000 per year."
