July/August 2026
www.nitravelnews.com Inside the Newest Hotel in Belfast's Titanic Quarter
THE LOCAL TOURIST | 83
Titanic Belfast Announce Expansion of School
Transport Bursary Programme
ALOFT by Marriott Belfast Titanic Quater has officially opened, marking its first location in Northern Ireland. The new hotel is located on the site of the historic shipyard, where the Titanic was built and will bring Marriott’s signature design, music-led ethos and social energy to Belfast’s Waterfront. The property opens as a dual hotel development, sharing the shipyard site with the newly opened Residence Inn by Marriott Belfast Titanic Quarter. Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President – Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International, said: “Aloft by Marriott Belfast Titanic Quarter is a significant step for the brand’s UK presence as it enters Northern Ireland for the first time. Belfast’s powerful identity and the rich history paired with the exciting development of the Titanic Quarter make this a perfect location for Aloft by Marriott’s different-by-design experience, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to this dynamic new opening.” Sonia Kajani, Director, JMK Group, said: “The opening of Aloft by Marriott Belfast Titanic Quarter marks a significant
milestone for us as owners and reflects our confidence in Belfast as one of the UK and Ireland’s most dynamic and fast- growing destinations for both business and leisure travel. We are proud to partner with Marriott International to bring the Aloft brand to the iconic Titanic Quarter, as part of a dual-hotel development, sharing its site with the newly opened Residence Inn by Marriott Belfast Titanic Quarter.”
TITANIC Belfast has announced plans to expand its School Transport Bursary for the 2026/27 academic year, giving more children than ever the opportunity to travel for free to the visitor attraction. Applications are now open until Monday 22nd June, with the number of participating schools increasing to 20, adding five schools to the total that will be selected within a 30-mile radius of Belfast. Funded through Titanic Belfast’s Community Impact Fund and delivered in partnership with McComb’s Coach Travel, the bursary helps remove financial barriers that prevent schools from accessing educational visits and cultural learning experiences. Now entering its fourth year, the scheme has supported more than 1,800 pupils since launching in 2023, giving children the opportunity to take part in Titanic Belfast’s educational programme. Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast said: “Expanding the bursary from 15 to 20 schools means
even more young people will have the
opportunity to experience Titanic Belfast and engage with learning outside the classroom. We know that school budgets continue to face significant pressure, particularly around transport costs, so this initiative is about ensuring access to educational experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity and connection to our shared history. We’re proud to continue investing in programmes that support schools and benefit local communities.” Caroline McComb, Director of McComb’s Coach Travel added: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Titanic Belfast on such an important initiative. Educational
visits like these can leave a lasting
impression on young people and it’s fantastic to help make those opportunities more accessible for schools
and pupils who may otherwise miss out.”
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