Visiting Belfast on a Cruise? Discover the Giant’s Causeway on a Small-Group Shore Excursion

A day in Belfast offers the chance to experience dramatic coastal scenery, welcoming seaside towns and some of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable sights. But with a cruise ship to return to, making the most of your time ashore takes a little planning.

Our Giant’s Causeway shore excursion from Belfast Cruise Port brings together the Causeway Coast and a Belfast city tour in one carefully planned day. With port pickup, smaller coaches and a schedule arranged around your ship’s arrival and departure, you can settle in and enjoy the journey.

Start Your Day Straight from Belfast Cruise Port

Your adventure begins at Belfast Cruise Port, where our guides and coaches will be waiting.

When you leave the Welcome Tent, turn right and look for our guides wearing blue jackets. There’s no need to arrange transport into Belfast city centre to join the tour.

For ships docking before 8:00am, please leave the ship at 8:00am. If your ship docks after 8:00am, please disembark as soon as it docks. The tour begins approximately 30 minutes after the first passenger leaves the ship, with the day’s schedule adjusted to suit your cruise call.

Walk Among the Stones at the Giant’s Causeway

We travel directly towards the Giant’s Causeway, giving you the opportunity to experience this remarkable stretch of coastline early in the day.

You’ll have approximately one hour and 30 minutes to explore the Causeway and surrounding area. Wander among the distinctive stone columns, take in the coastal views and capture photographs of one of Northern Ireland’s most memorable landscapes.

Comfortable walking shoes and a waterproof layer are sensible additions to your day bag, so you can enjoy exploring whatever the weather brings.

Capture the Views at Dunluce Castle and Portaneevy

The coastal scenery continues with a photo stop at Dunluce Castle. Perched above the sea, its dramatic ruins make a striking backdrop for photographs.

We then continue to Portaneevy viewpoint, where you can look towards Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Rathlin Island.

This stop is an opportunity to enjoy the views and photograph the coastline; the itinerary does not include crossing the rope bridge.

Enjoy Lunch and Local Life in Ballycastle

A day exploring the coast deserves time to pause.

Our stop in Ballycastle gives you approximately one hour for lunch and a look around this seaside town. Choose somewhere to eat, enjoy a stroll or simply take a moment to soak up the atmosphere before the journey continues.

It’s a relaxed chance to experience another side of the Causeway Coast, beyond its famous landmarks.

Take the Scenic Route Back Towards Belfast

On our return journey, we travel through the Glens of Antrim, passing Glenariff Forest Park and enjoying the scenery along the Antrim Coast Road.

From wooded valleys to coastal views, the journey is part of the experience. Sit back, enjoy the extra legroom and watch the landscape change as we make our way towards Belfast.

See Belfast Before Returning to Your Ship

Your day also includes an extended Belfast city tour, offering an introduction to the city’s history and distinctive neighbourhoods.

Along the way, you’ll see areas and landmarks including the Falls Road, Shankill Road, Peace Walls, famous wall murals and Titanic Quarter.

We then return you directly to Belfast Cruise Port, with plenty of time for your ship’s departure.

Why Choose a Small-Group Shore Excursion?

When you have a limited number of hours in port, the size of your tour group can make a difference.

Our coaches seat just 19, 24 or 26 passengers, creating a more personal experience. Smaller groups are easier to manage at each stop, helping reduce waiting time and giving you more opportunity to enjoy the places you’ve come to see.

With extra legroom, experienced drivers and local guides, you can travel comfortably while we take care of the day’s arrangements.

Book with Your Cruise Plans in Mind

We understand that cruise itineraries can change. If your cruise ship does not dock at Belfast Port for any reason, you will receive a full refund.

We also offer a full refund for cancellations made up to seven days before your arrival. For cancellations within seven days, a full refund is available if we are able to resell your seat.

Ready to make the most of your Belfast port call? Join Odyssey Coach Tours for coastal scenery, local discoveries and a comfortable small-group experience.

Check availability and book your Giant’s Causeway Small-Group Shore Excursion