Belfast & Giant's Causeway: Shore Excursion with City Murals

Summary

Giant’s causeway stones, windswept cliffs & belfast’s painted walls

You’ll step straight from your cruise into wild Irish air for a day trip from Belfast to Giant’s Causeway—climbing ancient stones before crowds arrive, catching sea views along Antrim Coast Road, snapping photos at Dunluce Castle’s ruins, and hearing stories behind Belfast’s famous murals with a local guide. It leaves you with more questions than answers—in a good way.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is stepping off the ship and feeling that kind of brisk air you only get in Northern Ireland — a mix of sea salt and something earthy. Our guide, Sean, waved us over by the port. He had this way of telling stories that made even the drive along the Antrim Coast Road feel alive. The road hugs the sea so close you can spot spray on the windows, and every now and then he’d point out some half-hidden beach or say “that’s Scotland over there — if you squint.” I tried, but honestly all I saw was mist. Still, it felt like we were right at the edge of things.

The Giant’s Causeway was quieter than I expected — maybe because we got there early, before the other buses. You hear about those basalt columns all your life but standing on them is different; they’re cold under your hands, slick from last night’s rain. There was this one couple from Spain trying to climb higher for a photo and laughing when they slipped (not dangerous, just slippery). Sean told us about Finn McCool — I probably butchered his name trying to repeat it — and for a second you almost believe giants could’ve built this place. The wind whistles through gaps in the rocks and you get this weird sense of being very small.

Dunluce Castle sits on its cliff looking both haunted and proud. We stopped for photos but mostly I just watched the waves crash below — there’s a sharp smell of seaweed here, not exactly pleasant but real. Someone asked about lunch and Sean mentioned Harry’s in Cushendall if we had time; we didn’t that day but he said their seafood chowder is worth coming back for. Maybe next time.

Back in Belfast, the city tour was quick but intense — those political murals are huge up close, colors so bright they almost buzz against grey brick. Sean talked about peace lines and history without sugarcoating anything. It wasn’t comfortable exactly, but it felt honest. We made it back to the port just as rain started again — classic timing. I still think about those stones under my feet at the Causeway sometimes when things feel too tidy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Giant's Causeway and Belfast tour

• Meet driver at cruise terminal
• Travel along Antrim Coast Road
• Stop at Dunluce Castle for photos
• Visit Giant's Causeway site
• View Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge (closed)
• Tour Belfast city murals and peace walls
• Stop at Carrickfergus Castle for photos
• Return to cruise ship terminal

Top questions

Is pickup included from Belfast cruise port?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at Belfast Port are included for cruise passengers.

How long do we spend at Giant's Causeway?

The stop allows time to explore the stones, take photos, and enjoy the area before most other groups arrive.

Does this tour include lunch?

No set lunch is included; if time allows there may be a stop at Harry's Restaurant in Cushendall for local seafood (at own expense).

Are entry fees included for attractions?

No separate entry fees are mentioned; photo stops are provided at Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle.

Is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge accessible?

No, currently Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is closed due to restrictions.

Will we see Belfast murals on this tour?

Yes, there is a guided city tour including political wall murals and peace lines in Belfast.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended due to uneven terrain at some stops.

How long does the whole excursion last?

The tour is timed to fit within cruise docking schedules; exact duration depends on your ship's timetable.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off right at Belfast Port, travel by air-conditioned coach with live commentary from a local guide who brings history to life as you go—from Giant’s Causeway to Dunluce Castle photo stops and through Belfast’s mural-lined streets—before returning comfortably in time for your sailing.