Belfast: Giants Causeway Tour Cruise Ship Excursion

If you’re cruising into Belfast and eager to explore the legendary Giant’s Causeway, this private tour promises a personalized experience along the iconic North Irish Coastal Route. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed descriptions and glowing reviews suggest it’s a smart choice for travelers who want flexibility, insider access, and a taste of authentic Irish scenery.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the private driver who makes the journey intimate and flexible, and the chance to go places the big coaches can’t—like hidden viewpoints and quaint harbors. The one caveat? Since it’s a tailored experience, be prepared for a full 7-hour day—something to consider if your cruise schedule is tight.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace, cultural stops, and amazing scenery, all while having the comfort and exclusivity of a private vehicle. Whether you’re a history buff, a landscape lover, or a Game of Thrones fan, it’s designed to fit a broad range of interests.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience with your own driver and itinerary adjustments
• Access to places coaches can’t reach, allowing for more intimate sightseeing
• Stunning coastal views, including Carnlough, Loughareema, and Rathlin Island
• Visit iconic sites such as Dunluce Castle and Bushmills Distillery
• Free walking at the Giants Causeway stones—easy access and no entry fee for the stones themselves
• Customized timing and stops to suit your cruise schedule and interests

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Giants Causeway Tour

Starting Point and Duration

This excursion typically lasts around 7 hours, meaning it’s a full day dedicated to exploring some of the most beautiful and interesting parts of Northern Ireland’s coast. You’ll start from Belfast City Centre with a pre-arranged pickup, and the tour includes a luxurious private vehicle that comfortably seats up to seven passengers. The vehicle’s leather interior and air-conditioning promise a comfortable ride through some of the world’s most scenic landscapes.

The Private Advantage

What sets this tour apart from the typical bus trip is the privacy and customization. Your driver isn’t just a guide; they’re your personal concierge, ready to tailor the experience to your needs—whether that’s adjusting pickup times or focusing more on certain sites. This means less rushing, more relaxed exploration, and the freedom to linger at spots that catch your eye.

Scenic Route Highlights

The North Antrim Coastal Route, often voted one of the world’s best tourist drives, is the backbone of this trip. As we understand from reviews, travelers love the way this route combines natural beauty, history, and local charm all in one. Expect to pass through Carnlough, a lovely little harbor town where colorful boats and seaside cafes create a charming atmosphere.

A visit to the Vanishing Lake of Loughareema is included—an intriguing, slow-moving body of water that seems to disappear and reappear, adding a touch of mystery. You’ll also stop at Portaneevy viewpoint, where on clear days you can see Rathlin Island and, if the weather cooperates, Scotland just across the channel.

Another highlight is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge—if you’re feeling brave, crossing the swaying bridge offers not just a thrill but spectacular views. For fans of Game of Thrones, Ballintoy Harbour offers the chance to stand where some of the show’s iconic scenes were filmed.

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The Main Attraction – The Giants Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway itself is a natural wonder—thousands of interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. The story of Finn McCool and the legend surrounding the stones add a layer of mythic charm, but the real attraction is the breathtaking landscape. The visitor center offers paid entry, but the stones are free to explore—so you can walk among them at your own pace without extra costs.

Many travelers mention the stunning views and the sense of wonder walking amidst these natural formations. One review notes, “The guide’s knowledge made the legend come alive,” emphasizing how storytelling adds to the experience.

Historic and Cultural Stops

The tour includes a visit to Dunluce Castle, a dramatic ruin perched on the coastline. Its history as an ancient stronghold and its seemingly precarious location make for great photo opportunities. While entry fees aren’t included, the castle’s atmosphere alone is worth a stop.

Later, a visit to Bushmills Distillery allows you to sample Ireland’s famous whiskey and browse the gift shop—perfect for those interested in local craftsmanship. The distillery’s history dates back to 1608, making it the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world.

Snacks, Flexibility, and Value

Included in the tour are light snacks—potato chips, chocolate bars, and chilled water—making sure you stay refreshed without the need for a sit-down meal (which you’ll need to organize separately). The tour’s flexibility means you can adjust the timing or even shorten the day if your cruise schedule demands it.

While lunch isn’t included, many travelers find that the stops at local cafes or the picnic-style options along the coast are enjoyable and authentic.

What Reviews Say About This Tour

Travelers generally praise the knowledgeable guides who bring the sites alive with stories and local lore. One reviewer notes, “Our guide was fantastic—full of interesting stories and insights,” which adds a lot to the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The stunning views along the coast and at viewpoints like Portaneevy are repeatedly highlighted as unforgettable, with visitors remarking on how these moments stay with them long after the trip.

Some mention the benefit of going beyond the usual bus tours—the ability to stop where and when they wanted is a significant advantage, especially for those with specific interests or limited time.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers impressive value, it’s important to consider the costs for optional extras like entry fees to Dunluce Castle or Bushmills Distillery, which are not included. However, visiting the stones at the Causeway is free, and many travelers find that is the main highlight of the day.

The 7-hour duration is designed for a relaxed pace, but if your cruise has tight timing, it’s worth confirming the starting times and possibly adjusting the schedule. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private excursion is perfect for small groups seeking a personalized and relaxed experience. If you enjoy stunning landscapes, stories about legends, and the comfort of private transport, you’ll find this tour a great fit. It’s also ideal for history enthusiasts or Game of Thrones fans wishing to see filming locations firsthand.

Travelers looking for flexibility and customization will appreciate how the tour can adapt to their interests and schedule. However, those on a rigid timeline or with a limited budget might want to consider the additional costs of entry fees or look at other options.

The Sum Up

This private guided tour to the Giant’s Causeway offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery, historical sites, and personalized attention. The private vehicle and flexible itinerary mean you can explore at your own pace, with fewer crowds and more intimate encounters with Ireland’s coastal treasures.

It’s an especially good choice for travelers who value comfort, local insights, and the ability to customize their day. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views, this tour makes an excellent addition to any Belfast cruise itinerary.

While not the cheapest option, the value in personalized service, the range of stops, and the memorable scenery make it worth considering, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of large coach tours and enjoy a truly authentic and relaxed Irish experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as a private tour, it can accommodate a variety of ages and mobility levels, especially since it’s wheelchair accessible.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a private luxury vehicle, up to 7 passengers, with full leather interior and air conditioning, light snacks, and pickup and drop-off in Belfast City Centre.

Are entry fees to sites included?
No, entry fees for Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, and other sites are not included. The stones at the Giant’s Causeway are free to visit.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. You can specify pickup times and locations, and the driver can adjust stops based on your interests or schedule constraints.

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the 7-hour duration makes it perfect for those with a cruise schedule, and the flexibility allows you to tailor the day around your dock time.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can change quickly along the coast. The tour’s flexibility means you can adapt your plans—perhaps focusing more on indoor sites or scenic viewpoints with covered areas.

This private Giants Causeway tour offers a balanced, authentic, and flexible way to experience one of Ireland’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re entranced by legends, natural beauty, or local stories, it’s a memorable way to make the most of your Belfast visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: