Satellite view of Greencastle

Greencastle

Ireland

Explore the dramatic coastal cliffs and medieval Dunluce Castle perched dramatically on basalt rock formations.

💱 Currency Euro (EUR)
🗣 Language English, Irish
🕐 Time Zone IST (UTC+0)
☀️ Best Time to Visit Apr–Sep
🚢 Typical Duration 24-28 nights
💰 Price Range From $2,399 pp
Port Type Port of Call
🚤 Tender Port Yes

Gateway to Northern Ireland's scenic coastline and proximity to the historic Inishowen Peninsula, offering cruisers access to rugged Atlantic landscapes and Irish cultural heritage.

Cruises that visit Greencastle

Build Your Day in Greencastle

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 7:00 PM
Usually about 11 hours ashore
Getting around:
The Point Bar & Restaurant Open fire, perfect Guinness, lovely menu and great service. Pub · ★ 4.6 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Kinbane Castle No tickets required, free attraction. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Rosato’s Bar & Restaurant Top class, food,service, and atmosphere were all top notch Gastropub · ★ 4.8 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM
The Cosy Cottage Great food, great staff , great location. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
The Boathouse Bar/Restaurant The staff and servers were exceptional and the food and drink perfect! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM
Lough Foyle Ferry Easy and convenient way to maximize your time up on the north shore. Ferry service · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Kealy's Seafood Bar Simple ingredients, sourced locally and served within hours of the catch. Seafood · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Temporarily closed
Inishowen Maritime Museum The VR experiences were wonderfully engaging and heightened the experience. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Greencastle Golf Club Challenging course which requires accuracy Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Ferryport Bar Food absolutely delicious and great staff Pub · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12:30 PM
The Corner Bar Loved it.Friendly atmosphere and reasonable priced. Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM
Sean Ti (Cavanagh's) Amazing tacos and really fresh fish. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM
Sultan Castle Absolutely gorgeous food in a beautiful location with wonderful staff. Indian · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM
McLaughlins COFFEE SHOP Very helpful friendly staff, and great selection in the shop Convenience store · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Trawler Man My favourite pub in Moville Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM
Michael John's Pub Pints of Guinness are absolutely fabulous. Pub · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Susies Bar Best pub in Moville and easily the best pint of Guinness. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Sweet Nellie’s Beach Amazing place!! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Rest & Taste Great environment, amazing food, and a very funny waiter 😂 100% recommend Fish and Chips · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Greencastle (Northburgh) Anglo Norman Castle Northburgh (Greencastle) Castle was sited to control Lough Foyle. Historical landmark · ★ 3.9 · 0k
McGettigans Delicious meal & friendly helpful staff. Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM
Greencastle Boat Tours Would book again in a heart beat. Tour operator · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
The Edge Restaurant Enjoyed a great NYE dinner and breakfast during our stay at the hotel. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7:30 AM
Greencastle Cove Perfect for a dip. Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k
The Cairn Visitor Centre Attended a lovely relaxed concert 26th November. Museum · ★ 5 · 0k
The Captain’s Bar Tasty food, good drinks, great atmosphere. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12:30 PM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Greencastle

About Greencastle

Greencastle has emerged as a charming port of call along Northern Europe's cruise routes, with five major cruise lines including Holland America Line, Silversea, and Oceania Cruises calling here regularly. With 30 upcoming cruises and extended itineraries averaging 28 nights, this Irish port serves as a convenient stop on voyages connecting to popular destinations like Southampton, Reykjavík, and the Scottish Highlands. The peak season runs from April through September, offering excellent opportunities to experience this corner of County Donegal.

When your ship arrives in Greencastle, you'll find yourself in a picturesque waterside setting perfect for exploring authentic Irish coastal charm. The port's compact location makes it easy to venture into the surrounding region, where you can discover local culture, historic sites, and the natural beauty of the Inishowen Peninsula. Whether you choose a guided excursion or independent exploration, Greencastle offers a refreshing change of pace from busier cruise destinations.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Greencastle Fort's Coastal History

Explore the impressive 17th-century Greencastle Fort, a star-shaped fortification perched dramatically on the headland overlooking Inishowen Peninsula. This meticulously preserved military stronghold offers stunning views across the waters and provides fascinating insights into Ireland's strategic defensive heritage. The short walk from port makes it an ideal half-day excursion for history enthusiasts.

2

Fresh Seafood at Harborside

Savor exceptional Irish seafood at waterfront restaurants serving the day's catch—think succulent crab, locally-caught fish, and traditional chowder. Greencastle's fishing heritage means restaurants pride themselves on ultra-fresh preparations. Pair your meal with local craft beers or Irish whiskey while enjoying views of working fishing boats in the harbor.

3

Inishowen Peninsula's Rugged Beauty

Discover dramatic coastal landscapes and rolling green hills on the scenic Inishowen Peninsula, accessible via short drives from the port. Visit Malin Head, Ireland's northernmost point, featuring windswept cliffs and panoramic Atlantic vistas. The peninsula showcases quintessential Irish countryside with charming villages, ancient stone circles, and breathtaking natural scenery.

4

Local Craft Markets & Galleries

Browse authentic Irish crafts, hand-knitted woolens, and artisan goods at Greencastle's local shops and market stalls. Support independent makers selling traditional Aran sweaters, Celtic jewelry, and locally-made pottery. The intimate shopping experience reflects genuine Irish craftsmanship and provides meaningful souvenirs directly from talented local artisans.

5

Ancient Irish Heritage Sites

Visit nearby ancient monuments including early Christian sites and prehistoric standing stones scattered across Inishowen's landscape. These archaeological treasures reveal thousands of years of Irish spiritual and cultural history. Local guides share captivating stories of Celtic traditions, making these sacred sites deeply meaningful experiences beyond typical tourist attractions.

Cruise Lines at Greencastle

Cruises Departing From Greencastle

Cruises Visiting Greencastle

Ship Schedule at Greencastle

Greencastle Location

Other Cruise Ports in Ireland

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Greencastle, Ireland?

Five cruise lines operate from Greencastle: Holland America Line, Explora Journeys, Oceania Cruises, PONANT EXPLORATIONS, and Silversea. With 30 upcoming cruises scheduled, you'll have multiple options across different luxury and premium cruise operators for your Northern European voyage.

When is the best time to cruise from Greencastle?

The peak months for cruising from Greencastle are April, May, June, July, and September. These months offer the best weather for exploring Northern Europe and visiting popular destinations like Reykjavík, Southampton, and the Scottish ports. Booking during these periods is recommended, though availability may be more limited.

How much do cruises from Greencastle cost?

Cruise prices from Greencastle range from $2,399 to $94,500 per person, depending on the cruise line, cabin type, itinerary length, and season. The variation reflects options from premium to ultra-luxury operators, allowing travelers to choose experiences that fit their budget and preferences.

What are the top destinations from Greencastle?

Popular destinations from Greencastle include Southampton, Reykjavík, Greenock, Dover, Stornoway, and the Isle of Lewis. These itineraries showcase the best of Northern Europe, from Iceland's dramatic landscapes to the historic ports of England and Scotland's remote islands.

How do I get from Greencastle port to the town and local attractions?

Greencastle is a small port village in County Donegal, with limited public transportation. Taxis are available at the port for transfers to nearby towns like Inishowen or Derry/Londonderry. Many cruise passengers arrange car rentals or book organized shore excursions to explore the scenic Inishowen Peninsula and its historic sites.

What can I see and do during a day in Greencastle?

Greencastle offers access to the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula, featuring Malin Head, historic Dunree Fort, and scenic coastal drives. You can explore charming villages, visit local pubs and restaurants, or take guided tours of the region's archaeological sites and natural landscapes. The area is ideal for those seeking authentic Irish culture and coastal scenery.

Is Greencastle a tender port or do ships dock directly?

Greencastle is primarily a port of call where ships typically anchor offshore and use tenders to transport passengers to shore. This is common for smaller ports in Northern Europe. Tender operations depend on weather conditions, so passengers should be prepared for potential delays during rough seas.