Giants Causeway Tour Cruise Ship Excursion - What to Expect on the Day

Our Picks For The 5 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Belfast

Discover the best cruises and boat tours in Belfast, from land-and-sea adventures at the Giant's Causeway to quick shore excursions—perfect for every schedule.

Belfast offers a surprising variety of cruise and boat tours that showcase Northern Ireland’s rugged coastlines, legendary sights, and historic castle ruins. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship or just want a day trip from the city, the options here deliver everything from immersive land-and-sea adventures to quick, efficient highlights. We particularly like the full-day land-and-boat tour for its combination of storytelling, scenic beauty, and the chance to see the iconic Giant’s Causeway up close — an experience that balances adventure with comfort. Plus, the flexibility of private tours means you can customize your day, a bonus if you’re pressed for time or want to focus on specific sights.

If you’re visiting by cruise, the Belfast: Giants Causeway Cruise Ship Half Day Whizz Tour offers a quick, no-fuss way to see the main attraction without missing your ship’s departure. And for those wanting a fully personalized experience, the Private Shore Excursion From Belfast Cruise Terminal provides a tailored itinerary that includes Dunluce Castle, the Dark Hedges, and even the Old Bushmills Distillery. Whatever your schedule or interest level, Belfast’s tours are ready to turn your visit into a memorable journey.

1. From Belfast: Full-Day Giants Causeway Land and Boat Tour

From Belfast: Full-Day Giants Causeway Land and Boat Tour

At number 1 on our list, this full-day tour combines scenic land exploration with a boat trip that offers a different perspective on Northern Ireland’s coast. The tour lasts about 9 hours, with a typical start time that you can check for availability. It begins with a journey from Belfast to County Antrim, where the highlight is the Giant’s Causeway—the striking basalt columns that look like they belong to another world. Your guide shares legends about the formation and the myth of Finn MacCool, making the geology come alive.

What makes this tour special is the mix of land and sea experiences. You get to walk along the rugged coastline and learn about historic sites like an 800-year-old Norman Castle, then switch to a boat to view the coastline from the water. Tour guide Paddy and driver Kieran are praised for their warmth and knowledge, making the day both fun and informative. The tour also includes stops at scenic locations, with some reviews noting it as a “completely different way to see Northern Ireland.” Perfect for travelers who want an active, engaging day with plenty of storytelling.

Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining scenic beauty, local legends, and a boat ride that reveals the coast like few land-based tours can. It’s especially suited for those who want a full immersion without the crowds.

2. Giant’s Causeway Tour Cruise Ship Excursion

Giants Causeway Tour Cruise Ship Excursion

If you’re arriving on a cruise, time is tight, but you still want to see the Giant’s Causeway—this private cruise ship excursion is designed for a quick yet comprehensive visit. The 7-hour tour offers a private vehicle with your own driver, ensuring maximum flexibility. You can tailor the stops and timings, which is perfect when your ship’s schedule is fixed.

The tour visits the main sights like the Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the scenic North Irish Coastal Route, but it also allows for customization. The guide can adjust the pace based on your interests, giving you more time at favorite spots or skipping others. Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the ability to go where large coaches can’t, giving you a more intimate experience of Northern Ireland’s rugged coast.

Bottom line: This private tour is ideal for cruise passengers who want a flexible, tailored trip that maximizes time and minimizes stress, all while exploring iconic sights comfortably.

3. Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Tour Cruise Ship Excursion

Giants Causeway Tour Cruise Ship Excursion

This tour mirrors the previous cruise-ship option but emphasizes the private guided experience with a flexible schedule. It’s a 7-hour trip that offers the same benefits of personalized attention and the ability to avoid the crowds. The guide and driver work with your schedule to include stops at Dunluce Castle and other scenic points along the North Irish Coast.

The focus here is on providing a smooth, customized day for cruise travelers who want to see the Giant’s Causeway without feeling rushed. Reviewers highlight the benefit of going where larger tour buses cannot, making the experience more relaxed and private. If your cruise schedule allows, this tour ensures you don’t miss out on the main sights while enjoying a tailored experience.

Bottom line: Best suited for cruise travelers seeking a private, flexible day trip that hits the highlights without the rush of group tours.

4. Belfast: Giants Causeway Cruise Ship Half Day Whizz Tour

Belfast: Giants Causeway Cruise Ship Half Day Whizz Tour

If your time in Belfast is limited, this Half Day Whizz Tour is a perfect way to see the Giant’s Causeway in just about an hour. It’s designed for cruise passengers or those with tight schedules, with multiple pickup points—including Belfast port, airports, and the cruise terminal.

The tour involves a 75-minute coach ride to the Causeway, with a brief stop at Ballintoy Harbour. It’s a quick, efficient way to get a taste of this UNESCO World Heritage site without missing your ship or other commitments. The tour also includes options for pickup and drop-off at different locations, making logistics simple. Reviewers find it a convenient, no-fuss option that hits the main highlights in a short time.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want to see the Giant’s Causeway but are pressed for time, offering a straightforward experience with logistical flexibility.

5. Private Shore Excursion From Belfast Cruise Terminal

Private Shore Excursion From Belfast Cruise Terminal

For those who want a completely personalized day, this private shore excursion delivers a tailored tour of Northern Ireland’s top sights. It’s an 8-hour adventure that can include the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges, and even the Old Bushmills Distillery.

The beauty of this option is the ability to customize your itinerary, whether you’re interested in castles, coastal scenery, or Irish culture. The private guide focuses solely on your party, making the experience more relaxed and intimate. Tour reviews emphasize the flexibility, as guides can adapt to your pace and interests, ensuring you get a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

Bottom line: This is the best pick for travelers who want a private, customized experience with the freedom to choose their sights and spend more time on what interests them most.

How to Choose the Right Belfast Boat and Cruise Tour

Choosing among these options depends on your time, budget, and what you want to get out of your visit. If you’re on a cruise and short on time, the Half Day Whizz Tour or the Private Shore Excursion offers quick highlights or complete customization. For those with more time and a desire for an immersive experience, the full-day land and boat tour provides a balanced mix of scenery, stories, and adventure.

If you prefer total flexibility and a private experience, the private guided tour is hard to beat, especially if you want to explore other attractions like Dunluce Castle or Derry’s Dark Hedges. For cruise visitors who want the most efficient route, the cruise ship excursion guarantees a well-organized, personalized trip.

When booking, consider the time of year and your interests—spring and summer are ideal for coastal views and walking, while winter offers fewer crowds but potentially more weather disruptions. Always check availability early, especially for private tours, to secure your preferred dates.

In summary, Belfast’s diverse boat and cruise offerings mean there’s a perfect trip for everyone. The full-day tour is great for those wanting a deep dive with both land and sea, while the half-day whizz tour suits travelers pressed for time. For a tailored, relaxed experience, the private shore excursion hits the mark. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures that showcase Northern Ireland’s stunning coast and legendary landscapes.