A record 113 cruise ships will be calling into Dublin Port this year.

The luxury liner MSC Splendida is among the first, due to arrive next week.

180,000 visitors are expected with the arrivals of the ships.

Among the 113 calls are four turnaround cruises, which will see passengers travel to Dublin to begin their cruise.

Head of Corporate Services at the Dublin Port Company Pat Ward has said 2016 will be an “exciting year” for the Port.

“2016 is shaping up to be an exciting year for cruise at Dublin Port with 113 cruise calls and over 180,000 visitors scheduled for the port and the city,” said Ward.

“We are delighted to welcome the return of MSC Splendida, and one of the highlights this season will be the arrival of Disney Magic on her maiden call in May.

“For the first time this year, Dublin Port will also host the Cruise Europe Conference.”

“All the signs from the cruise lines now point to Dublin’s potential to become one of the next leading turnaround capitals for cruise passengers by 2020, especially for the North American market.”