Killybegs Ireland Cruise Port, 2024, 2025 and 2026 Cruises to Killybegs Ireland | The Cruise Web
 

Killybegs Ireland Cruise Port

There's something musical in the names of many Irish towns, and the cruise port of Killybegs, Ireland is no exception. Known also as Na Cealla Beaga in Irish Gaelic, Killybegs is the largest fishing port in both County Donegal and the entire island. Coming into its harbor, you'll see a backdrop of mountains adding to the town's charm; making it even more so is the traditional "Blessing of the Boats" it holds every summer. Famous for carpets and tapestries made by Donegal Carpets – some of which have graced the world’s most famous residences – the factory sadly closed in 2003. Because it's a natural deep water harbor, fishing is an important industry for Killybegs' almost 1,300 residents; however, as fishing has taken a hit in recent years, tourism is also helping give the economy a boost. Listed below are a handful of our favorite experiences when cruising to Killybegs, Ireland:
 
  • Although most of the harbor is used for fishing, Killybegs boasts a lovely beach just on the outskirts of town. Fintra Beach is made up of fine, golden sand. Not only is the beach and its views lovely, it's also been noted for being the safest beach in Ireland.
     
  • In a fishing town, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a fishing charter. Anglers can hop aboard a guided boat and go looking for mackerel, turbot, brill, ling, and pollack.
     
  • Birdwatchers will be delighted that the Killybegs harbor has been designated an important site by Birdwatch Ireland. Here you might see herring gulls, yellow-legged gulls, and other sea birds; the small island nearby called Innisduff is a "Special Protection Area" and houses barnacle geese.
     
  • When Donegal Carpets closed, it eventually morphed into the Killybegs International Carpet Making & Fishing Centre. Here you can learn about both the carpet making and fishing industries where you can take the guided tour and try your hand at tying a knot. There's also a modern ship simulator where you can test your navigational skills.
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