It’s a big boost for the harbour community.

And many a local business will already be making plans for when the first cruise liner of the season, The Ambience, docks in Cobh on Monday, April 10th.

Announcing its Cruise Liner Schedule for 2023, The Port of Cork Company (PoCC) is anticipating a strong year, with bookings returning to pre-pandemic levels and 113 vessels expected in 2023, compared to 100 vessels in 2019.

A sneak peek onboard The Ambience

With capacity for 1,400 guests, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained onboard this luxury liner, one of two owned and run by the British Ambassador Cruise Line.

As well as a gym and Wellness Centre, swimming pool, two hot tubs and a large screen for outdoor movies. other facilities include Kapoor’s, the onboard crafting studio, Brontë’s library, and the shopping galleria.

Cruise passengers can let their hair down at the Observatory and The Palladium before hitting the ship’s numerous bars, including Raffles, Botanical Lounge, SW19 and The Purple Turtle Pub.

Dining options are plentiful at the Buckingham restaurant the Borough Market and the Alfresco Grill as well as Saffron, Sea & Grass and the deluxe Chef’s Table.

Afterwards, guests can try their luck at the Aces & Eights bridge and card room and the Ambassador Casino.

You can even work off all that rich food by getting your steps in at the walking and jogging track on the Sun Deck.

“Last year, we were delighted to welcome over 115,000 passengers on 90 cruise ships to Cork following a two-year pause as a result of the pandemic,” said Conor Mowlds, Chief Commercial Officer at the Port of Cork.

“Now, we look forward to what is expected to be a thriving year in the cruise liner industry, as bookings return to pre-pandemic levels, which will have a really positive impact on the local region’s tourism and trade.”

The Ambience cruise ship is due to dock quayside in Cobh Cruise Terminal at 12pm and is scheduled to depart at 7pm on April 10th, 2023.