The cruise ship Norwegian Sky has cancelled its scheduled call to Dunmore East Harbour today, with passengers instead arriving into Cobh before travelling by coach to Waterford for a full day of excursions.

Waterford City and County Council initially confirmed that the vessel would not be calling to Dunmore East.

However, in a later update, the local authority said Norwegian Sky had successfully docked in Cobh, with Excursions Ireland arranging coach transfers.

Their itinerary includes a visit to Curraghmore House, the Epic Tour of Waterford, traditional Irish coffees at the Tower Hotel, a guided factory tour at the House of Waterford, and free time to explore the city’s shops, attractions, cafés and pubs.

It is not yet known how many passengers will make the journey from Cobh to Waterford.

The diversion has renewed calls for permanent cruise ship berthing infrastructure in the county.

Waterford TD Conor McGuinness has written to the Minister for Transport seeking engagement on the development of a dedicated cruise berth, saying the latest disruption demonstrates the need for long-term investment.

His comments come after Seven Seas Grandeur, a separate cruise ship due to visit Dunmore East on July 1, was unable to call because of adverse weather and sea conditions, resulting in the loss of around 700 expected visitors.

Deputy McGuinness said many businesses across the county had prepared for that visit by bringing in extra staff, only for it to be cancelled at the last minute.

He said the recent disruptions highlight the economic impact of the lack of permanent berthing infrastructure and the need for investment to reduce the risk of future cancellations.

WLR has contacted Hamilton Shipping, the local agent for Norwegian Sky, seeking comment on the decision for the vessel to berth in Cobh rather than Dunmore East, and is awaiting a response.