Tuesday, January 21, 2025 Belfast Harbour has unveiled an ambitious £313 million five-year strategy designed to transform the port into a hub capable of welcoming the world’s largest cruise ships while simultaneously advancing offshore wind energy capabilities. Titled “Advance Regional Prosperity 2025-2029,” the plan represents a major step forward for both Northern Ireland’s tourism and renewable energy sectors. Under the strategy, £208 million has been allocated for port upgrades and developments, with an additional £105 million dedicated to regenerating and enhancing the Harbour Estate and waterfront.
Among the planned initiatives is a groundbreaking £90 million deepwater quay, the largest capital project ever undertaken by Belfast Harbour. This facility will serve dual purposes, accommodating massive cruise ships and supporting offshore wind turbine assembly and installation. Currently, Belfast Harbour serves as the only port in Ireland with offshore wind capabilities.
It has already invested £53 million in its D1 terminal to establish a bespoke offshore wind facility. The new quay at the D3 terminal will expand the port’s offshore wind operations by 2027/28, aiming to meet the needs of next-generation floating turbines by 2030. The deepwater berth at the D3 terminal will also become a dedicated docking location for cruise ships by 2030, relocating them from their current position at the D1 terminal.
This move ensures that the port’s cruise tourism operat.
