An estimated 520 cruise liners are due to visit Ireland between now and October - as the industry, worth an estimated €70 million - continues to bounce back following the Covid pandemic.
The Celebrity Silhouette, en route from Bermuda with 1,800 passengers - one of 101 cruise liners making a welcome return to Cobh - tied up in the town's deep water berth just before 8am.
Cobh is one of only two ports in the world where large cruise ships can tie up alongside their quays.
Port of Cork Chief Commercial Manager Conor Mowlds said after Covid, which had meant two years of no cruise calls, they were expecting a slow start.
"But we actually got 80 cruise calls in the first year (2022) and this year, over 100 cruise calls. We are delighted."
Mr Mowlds said the cruise liner business is worth an estimated €14 million to the local economy - with each passenger spending on average €85, and crew €30 while in town.
"It also means these passengers get a taste of what Ireland is like and in the longer term they come back and spend their time here on a long holiday."
Irish Rail increased the frequency of its trains to half-hourly to and from Cobh to accommodate passengers wishing to head to Cork city and for those who wished to travel to the town to see the liner for themselves.
Many passengers joined coach tours shoreside, or spent the day locally.
Galvin's Coaches of Dunmanway had 19 coaches standing by to take passengers to Kinsale, Blarney Castle and to other tourist destinations in the county.
John Galvin said it was great to be back after challenging times.
"Pre-Covid was very, very strong, 2019, but then (there was) the fall off with Covid. But I can see looking into the future things are very strong. For example, there is a sister ship of this coming in on Tuesday, Celebrity Apex and already we are at 28 coaches.
"We also cover Dunmore East, Bantry, Foynes and Dingle so there is quite a substantial list for the year coming forward."
John Gately, MD of the Commodore Hotel says they have seen a huge increase in the number of visitors especially from the US in recent weeks and he is optimistic about this year's tourist season.
He said they are fortunate that staffing is not an issue for them in general, but cost of living concerns for visitors means the hotel keeps a close eye on value for money on their menus and for their rooms.
With its population of 16,000, Cobh is a busy commercial town, but given its maritime history and location, tourism now accounts for up to 80% of visitors.
Cobh & Harbour Chamber President, Joanna Murphy said the town is delighted to welcome cruise passengers and their crews back this season.
"As always, the cruise season brings a boost to everyone in Cobh and to the local harbour community, having a positive impact on trade and on the atmosphere in the town."
The Celebrity Silhouette and its 1,800 passengers departed Cobh this afternoon with a further three cruise liners due in this week.
