Access Welcome Guide
At Cork Harbour Cruises, we are proud to welcome every guest aboard and are committed to make your time on the water enjoyable, comfortable, and accessible.
Whether you are joining us for a scenic harbour tour, a sunset cruise, a corporate event, or a family outing, our goal is to support all visitors, especially those with additional access needs, in planning their trip with confidence.
Our crew are trained, approachable, and always happy to offer assistance. If you have specific accessibility requirements or would like help preparing for your visit, please feel free to reach out. We are here to ensure that everyone can fully enjoy Cork’s beautiful maritime landscape.
Contact Information
Email: info@corkharbourcruises.com
Phone: +353 (0)87 954 4140
Address:
Cork Harbour Cruises
Custom House Quay
Cork City
Ireland
Social Media:
Instagram: @corkharbourcruises
Facebook: @corkharbourcruise
1. Who This Guide Is For
This guide is helpful for anyone who may:
- Use a wheelchair, mobility scooter, cane or walking aid
- Have reduced mobility or difficulty with slopes or steps
- Be blind or have low vision
- Be D/deaf or hard of hearing
- Be neurodivergent or have sensory sensitivities
- Travel with an assistance dog
- Travel with older adults or young children
- Prefer reliable and predictable information before their journey
Everyone’s needs are different please contact us with any questions.
2. Getting Here
This section explains how to reach Cork from Cork Airport and Cork City, and how to get to Custom House Quay, our ferry departure point.
Getting to Cork by Air
Cork Airport is just 10 minutes from the city centre and is served by taxis and accessible bus services departing directly outside the arrivals hall.
Getting to Cork by Road
Cork is easily reached via the M8 from Dublin (approx. 2.5 hours). The N20, N22, N27, and N71 also connect Cork to Limerick, Kerry, West Cork, and the wider region.
Regular national and regional bus services operate to and from the city centre.
Getting to Cork by Sea
Ferry services from France and Spain arrive into Ringaskiddy, approximately 15 minutes from Cork City.
Getting to Cork by Train
Kent Station, the city’s main rail hub, is less than a five-minute walk from Custom House Quay. It offers step-free access, accessible toilets, lifts, and direct trains from Dublin plus services to surrounding towns.
Getting to Custom House Quay (Departure Point)
Walking: Step-free, well-paved routes from Kent Station and the city centre.
Parking
No onsite parking.
Several nearby car parks are within 2–6 minutes’ walk. Drop-off is allowed close to the quay.
Public Transport
Bus stops nearby served by low-floor accessible buses.
Taxis
Accessible taxis can drop passengers directly at the quayside.
3. Booking & Pre-Arrival Support
Passengers with reduced mobility are encouraged to contact us at least 48 hours before travelling so we can prepare for tidal conditions and advise on the most suitable sailings.
You can book:
- Online corkharbourcruises.com (Our website follows WCAG 2.2AA accessibility guidelines to ensure it is user-friendly for all.)
- At our Custom House Quay office.
We can help by advising:
- Best sailing times based on tides
- Quieter sailings
- Whether cabin access is likely
- Wheelchair space availability
- Extra time needed during boarding
If you require extra time boarding, or prefer to board first or last, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.
4. Key Accessibility Features
Boarding & Step-Free Routes
Boarding is via a wide, stable gangway. Staff can assist. Wheelchairs and mobility devices can be accommodated, though tide levels may affect ramp angles.
Onboard Facilities
Step-free access to main deck areas, outdoor and indoor seating, space for wheelchair users, and crew assistance available.
Toilets
Some vessels have accessible toilets. If not available, this is communicated at booking.
Audio & Sensory Supports
Live commentary via speakers, quiet areas available, personal sensory supports welcome.
Visual Supports
High-contrast signage, verbal orientation available, large-print safety info on request.
Staff Training & Safety
Crew trained in disability awareness, emergency support plans in place, and service animals welcome.
5. Hidden Disabilities & Crew Support
- Crew trained in disability awareness
- Hidden disability (“lifeboat”) lanyards available
- Crew can assist with boarding, stowing mobility aids, and locating quieter spaces
- Safety information can be provided verbally, in writing, or repeated if required
6. Sensory & Planning Tools
Sensory story available on request, vessel photos, pre-visit familiarisation calls, and guidance on quieter sailings.
7. Emergency Info
Nearby services:
- South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital
- Mercy University Hospital
- Cork University Hospital
- Late-night pharmacies in Cork City
- All crew fully trained and qualified
- Mobility aid suppliers available locally
8. Testimonials – What Our Customers Tell Us
“A fantastic cruise with beautiful views of Cork Harbour. The crew were so helpful and made sure everyone, including my elderly mother, was comfortable and cared for.”
“Brilliant tour! Easy boarding at Custom House Quay and very friendly staff.”
“Knowledgeable guides, great facilities, and really accommodating crew.”
9. Feedback & Continuous Improvement
We are committed to improving accessibility across all our services.
If you have suggestions or feedback, we would love to hear from you.
Email: info@corkharbourcruises.com
Last updated: November 2025
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Parking
- Arrival Early: boarding 15 min before departure. No parking on the piers.
- Port of Cork: City Hall car park on the overflow carpark in the train station.
- Wheelchair and buggy accessible.