Thank you to everyone who joined us at our conference last week — what an incredible day it was! We were delighted to welcome over 140 delegates from across Northern Ireland’s tourism industry for a day filled with insights, inspiration, and collaboration. The atmosphere was buzzing with ideas, optimism, and shared ambition for the future of tourism in Northern Ireland.
A Strong Start from the First and deputy First Ministers
We were honoured to be joined by First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Pengelly, who officially opened the conference. Both leaders offered a powerful endorsement of the tourism industry’s vital role in shaping Northern Ireland’s future. Their shared message of collaboration and partnership truly resonated — values that sit at the very heart of our sector.
A Warm Welcome from Our New Chair
Our newly appointed Chair, Joe O’Neill, extended a warm welcome to all delegates and took a moment to thank Judith Owens MBE for her exceptional leadership and contribution to NITA over the past seven years. Joe’s remarks reflected a renewed sense of purpose and optimism for the industry as we look ahead.
Belfast Harbour – Driving Tourism and Transformation
Belfast Harbour’s contribution to tourism continues to make waves. As the second-largest cruise port in the UK and Ireland, the Harbour has invested £90 million in infrastructure and visitor facilities, welcoming over 150 cruise ships this year alone — generating more than £25 million for the local economy.
Beyond the cruise industry, Belfast Harbour is spearheading a bold vision for a world-class waterfront destination, blending tourism, sustainability, and innovation. Current developments include new public spaces, offices, residential areas, and a vibrant leisure and cultural quarter — all designed to enhance the visitor experience and strengthen Belfast’s global reputation as a dynamic maritime city. These transformative investments are reshaping the city’s skyline while creating long-term growth, connectivity, and opportunity for communities and businesses across Northern Ireland.
Industry Insights and Shared Ambitions
Delegates also heard from Helen McGorman (Tourism Ireland) and Naomi Waite (Tourism NI), who shared valuable insights on emerging consumer trends and unveiled exciting autumn marketing plans. They highlighted the positive impact of the Shared Island funding, which is fostering stronger collaboration and connections across the island of Ireland.
Creativity and Regeneration in Focus
After a well-earned coffee break, Wayne Hemingway took to the stage with his trademark passion and energy, delivering an inspiring presentation on regenerating waterfronts and coastal towns. His work on the Bangor redevelopment project demonstrated how thoughtful design can seamlessly connect the waterfront with the heart of the city — setting the perfect tone for our afternoon discussions.
Panel Discussion: Harnessing Maritime Heritage and Blue-Green Spaces
Our engaging panel brought together an outstanding line-up of experts:
- Kerrie Sweeney, Maritime Belfast
- Heather McLachlan, National Trust
- Aiedin McCarter, Derry City & Strabane District Council
- Gráinne O’Connor, Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark
Together, they explored how maritime heritage, waterfront regeneration, and blue-green spaces can fuel tourism growth, support communities, and drive sustainable economic development across the region.
Looking Ahead
It was a day full of ideas, inspiration, and shared purpose, reflecting the energy and collaboration that define our tourism industry. We’re proud to be part of such a passionate community — and grateful to everyone who contributed to making this year’s conference such a success.
The presentations from the conference are available at Latest NI Tourism Reports | NITA under Member Reports and some photos are included below – can you spot yourself?
Finally, we would like to thanks our partners for the conference, without whom it wouldn’t have been such a success:-
- Titanic Belfast
- Larchfield Estate
- ICC Belfast
- Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council
- Tourism NI
- Tourism Ireland
