BargesInFrance.com is closed. Archived information for 2023 only. Information will not be updated.
Cruise In Ireland On The Shannon River Aboard The Deluxe Hotel-Barge SHANNON
PRINCESS II
BARGE CRUISES: SEVEN DAYS/SIX NIGHTS
Shannon Princess II is SOLD OUT for the 2023
season.
The 10-passenger Shannon Princess II is the largest luxury hotel barge cruising
the Lower Shannon River. Her thoughtfully designed interior includes five equal
but individually designed twin or double cabins. All are riverside cabins with
large opening picture windows, and bright airy bathrooms. Forward of the guest
cabins is a spacious salon area, with its own fore deck sun area. On the top
deck is a large panoramic sun deck. Her experienced owners, Ruairi Gibbons and
Olivia Power, who serve as Captain and Chef, go out of their way to accommodate
your every need. Olivia was trained at the Ballymaloe School and distinguishes
herself at every meal with signature dishes such as parcels of wild salmon,
roast of spring lamb, variations of shellfish stew with fresh herbs and of
course, a grand selection of desserts. We cruised aboard the Shannon Princess
in June 2019 and found that it still offers a wonderful personalized tour of
Ireland and some of the most exceptional cuisine we have ever had!
The River Shannon: Far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern
living, lies the mighty river Shannon. It is the most extensive inland waterway
in Ireland and Britain, with over 300km of navigable flowing waters. The Shannon
is set amidst one of Europe's most environmentally pure and spectacular
landscapes. Its tranquil atmosphere and unhurried pace invites you to completely
unwind and savour the pleasures of floating through Ireland's inland
waterways.
Explore the legends... What better way to explore the very heart of
Ireland than to cruise on the lovely SHANNON PRINCESS II. Come along and explore
this river wrapped in legends, myths and the gentle mists of time. Slip gently
through a countryside that has withstood the test of time, and experience the
ancient monasteries, prehistoric cities, fairy forts and Celtic villages.
Viking towers cast a watchful eye on the SHANNON PRINCESS II as she floats
through Ireland's unspoiled waterways. Set your watch to Shannon time, as
wandering waters pass fishermen, wild deer and grazing horses. Kingfishers and
wild orchids splash color across the day. Gliding birds of prey swoop and dive
for leaping salmon on their way upstream. We pass through locks, bridges, forest
park and ancient mountains as we set our course for any of the Shannon's
charming villages.
For your excursions, you will visit intriguing historical sites, pretty towns
and villages while passing by gentle hills and dappled woods. The sleepy
villages along the way, are transformed by the presence of towering castles,
prehistoric remains, ruined abbeys & churches, ancient town walls and the
lingering tall tales and legends of a lost age.
The Shannon Princess also offers a special golf cruise for those interested in
golf but only those interested in golf need pay the supplement. See the sample
itinerary below.
Features
Size of barge: 110 ft by 20 ft
Number of Passengers: 10
Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 5
Crew: 5
Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes.
Salon: Large salon with two sofas and armchairs, dining
area and panoramic windows
Bar: Open bar
Deck: Full length upper observation deck with sun loungers,
outdoor sofas and chairs and spa pool
Spa Tub: Yes
Cabin Features:
5 twin or queen bed suites, all 125 sq ft each with large opening panoramic
windows and ensuite bathroom with shower.
Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: 12-seater air-conditioned
minibus.
Accessibility: No steps from the salon to the cabins, 11
steps from the saloon to the upper deck
Bicycles: 2 bicycles on board. More can be hired at no
charge.
Wi-Fi: Yes - limited in some areas
Shannon Princess's Deck Plan
SHANNON PRINCESS II
2021 SEASON PRICES in
US DOLLARS |
TYPE |
VALUE Apr 18 thru May 8 |
REGULAR May 9 thru Sep 25 |
Cabin (per person, double occupancy) |
$4,600 |
$5,350 |
Single Occupancy Supplement |
$1,600 |
$1,800 |
Charter for 6 |
$39,300 |
$43,800 |
Charter for 8 |
$41,600 |
$46,800 |
Charter for 10 |
$43,900 |
$49,500 |
Golf Cruise Charter Supplement |
$950 |
$950 |
SHANNON PRINCESS II
2022 SEASON PRICES in
US DOLLARS |
TYPE |
VALUE Apr 17 thru May 7 |
REGULAR May 8 thru Oct 1 |
Cabin (per person, double occupancy) |
$4,600 |
$5,350 |
Single Occupancy Supplement |
$1,600 |
$1,800 |
Charter for 6 |
$39,300 |
$43,800 |
Charter for 8 |
$41,600 |
$46,800 |
Charter for 10 |
$43,900 |
$49,500 |
What's Included
- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge, all cabins with private bath
- Transfers from Dublin to the barge and return
- All meals beginning with dinner on Sunday through breakfast on Saturday,
including one lunch at a local restaurant
- All wines with lunches and dinners
- Open bar
- All escorted side-excursions (hot air ballooning, golf, etc. at additional
cost)
- Use of bicycles
Golf cruise:
- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge, all cabins with private bath
- Transfers from Dublin to the barge and return
- All meals beginning with dinner on Sunday through breakfast on Saturday
- All wines with lunches and dinners
- Open bar
- All escorted side-excursions (hot air ballooning, spa treatments, etc at
additional cost)
- Use of bicycles
- Transfers to golf courses, green fees and starting times for four rounds of
golf
What's Not Included
- Suggested 5-7% gratuity for the crew, to be paid in equivalent Euros to the
captain
- Alcoholic beverages off the barge
- Overseas air transportation to Dublin and return
- Trip cancellation insurance
Golf cruise:
- Suggested 5-7% gratuity for the crew, to be paid in equivalent Euros to the
captain
- Overseas air transportation to Dublin and return
- Drinks off the barge
- Golf club rental, caddie fees, buggy hire
- Trip cancellation insurance
Shannon Princess II
2021 Season Cruise Schedule* |
Week |
Route (Or Reverse) |
Season |
Apr 18 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Value
|
Apr 25 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Value
|
May 2 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Value
|
May 9 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
May 16 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
May 23 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
May 30 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jun 6 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jun 13 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jun 20 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jun 27 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jul 4 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jul 11 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jul 18 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jul 25 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Aug 1 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Aug 8 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Aug 15 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Aug 22 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Aug 29 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Sep 5 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Sep 12 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Sep 19 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Shannon Princess II
2022 Season Cruise Schedule* |
Week |
Route (Or Reverse) |
Season |
Apr 17 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Value
|
Apr 24 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Value
|
May 1 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Value
|
May 8 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
May 15 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
May 22 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
May 29 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jun 5 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jun 12 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jun 19 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jun 26 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jul 3 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jul 10 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jul 17 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Jul 24 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Jul 31 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Aug 7 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Aug 14 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Aug 21 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Aug 28 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Sep 4 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Sep 11 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
Sep 18 |
Glasson-Killaloe |
Regular
|
Sep 25 |
Killaloe-Glasson |
Regular
|
*Note: Cruise directions and sample itineraries may be
in reverse
and are subject to change and may depend on bookings and local navigation
conditions.
Alternate excursions of equal appeal are substituted when needed.
For charter cruises special itineraries can be arranged.
SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Ireland: Shannon River
Glasson to Killaloe 2023
Sunday - Glasson
Guests are met in Dublin and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to
Shannon Princess. Your Captain and his crew welcome you on board with champagne,
Black Velvets or Irish coffees. Time perhaps for a gentle stroll before your
first dinner on board.
Monday - Glasson to Athlone
This morning we begin our cruise around the beautiful "Inner Lakes" of
Lough Ree and then continue north as we explore some of the 365 islands on the
lake. We then circle back to the River Shannon and onto our mooring in Athlone
Town. After lunch we visit the Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery, dating from 1757
and the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world. On the return journey
there is time for a visit to Ballinahown, an artisan craft village. Dinner on
board.
Tuesday - Athlone to Shannonbridge
Today we negotiate Athlone Lock and head south through Europe's richest example
of "Callow" landscape. We moor at Clonmacnoise ruins, a famed 6th
century university and an early monastic settlement. Following a tour, we cruise
on to our mooring at Shannonbridge. Then, after lunch we visit Leap Castle,
reputed to be Ireland's most haunted house. You will be given a personal tour by
the eccentric owner Sean Ryan, whom with traditional Irish musicians, will
relate to you the fascinating history of the castle and its part in founding the
American Constitution. After dinner on board, join the captain for a pint in
Killeen's pub for some Irish music and an evening with the locals.
Wednesday - Shannonbridge to Terryglass
This morning, we cruise a very pretty stretch of the River Shannon through
Meelick lock, pausing as Portumna swing bridge is opened to allow us passage
onto idyllic Lough Derg and then moor at Terryglass Harbour. This afternoon we
visit Birr Castle, still resided in by the Earl of Rosse and family, to see the
magnificent gardens, the fascinating Science Centre and admire the historic
Great Telescope. Dinner on board.
Thursday - Terryglass to Mountshannon
Today, our tour is first to the walled gardens of Portumna Castle, then on to
Galway, a lively University City and cultural centre for Irish-speaking regions
in Western Ireland. Visit the Galway crystal, craft and linen shops and then
lunch at a traditional Guinness & Oyster pub. We return to Shannon Princess
and set sail across beautiful Lough Derg, passing Forrest Park and ancient
mountains as we enjoy our dinner and sunset cruise to Mountshannon - a lovely
lakeside village perched above the Lough.
Friday - Mountshannon to Killaloe
Today we set sail across south Lough Derg, re-joining the River Shannon to moor
at Killaloe, once home to the court of the greatest High King of Ireland, Brian
Boru. After exploring this elegant little town, we lunch on board, then set off
to Adare Manor, a magnificent estate located on the banks of the River Maigue.
Here, in the setting of the Walled Garden, we gain a real insight into the
history and tradition of falconry and have the opportunity to "get up close and
personal" with birds of prey such as owls, falcons and eagles -- a magical
experience. We end the afternoon by visiting a traditional Irish hand-weaving
workshop. "Salinte" cocktail reception and Captain's Farewell Dinner on board.
Saturday - Killaloe
After breakfast, guests are transferred by private chauffeured minibus to
Dublin.
Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The cruise runs in
reverse on alternate weeks.
Dining Aboard The Shannon Princess:
SAMPLE MENU
BREAKFAST
Our Continental & hot breakfast offerings include a full Irish breakfast with
eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding and sauteed mushrooms
along with
Continental breakfast food items such as fresh breads and jams, cereals and
porridge, fresh and dried fruits and yogurt, in addition to fresh fruit juices,
coffee and tea selections.
LUNCH
- Cold poached wild salmon on a bed of rocket greens with salsa verde
- Confit of rabbit legs with a bean & green tomato cassoulet
- Mussel & artichoke risotto
- Nanny goat cheese & honeyed onion tartlettes
- A selection of salads such as heritage pea & lettuce hearts, sweet chilli &
roast pepper salad,
braised fennel salad, basil & aubergine salad,
nasturtium & burnette salad
- Irish cheese platter
DINNER
- Duck livers with apple & verbana French toast
- Seafood platter of bass, smoked oysters & scallops with herb & leaf
salad
- Village style crab with herb & heirloom tomato salsa
- Nettle soup
- A roast fillet of beef with porcini & chanterelle tartlet
- A warm turbot, white truffle & prosciutto terrine, mizuna leaves, asparagus,
vine tomato & chervil
scented vinagrette
- Roast garlic spiked rumps of lamb served rare with caramelized beets,
chickpeas and balsamic vinegar
- Serrano wrapped goose liver & porcini pate, rosemary crackling and a confit
of bramble berries
- Seared King scallops and a souffle of saffron & crab with grilled chichory &
gazpacho broth
- Farmers market handmade Irish cheeses served with oatcakes, prune chutney &
vintage port
DESSERTS
- Loganberry sorbet
- Elderberry sorbet
- Rosehip & geranium leaf sorbet
- Lemon verbena sorbet
- Summer puddings
- Elderflower & fig sabayon and almond tuiles
- Vanilla ice cream with salted caramel tuiles
- Liqueur coffee with homemade chocolates and fudge are served after every
dinner
SAMPLE WINE LIST
A wide selection of French & other European wines, complemented by fine Irish
single malt whiskies.
Passenger Comments:
The trip was spectacular. The weather was chilly and a bit of rain from time to
time, but we did not let the weather spoil our fun. The barge was incredibly
well maintained; the food beyond our wildest dreams; and the crew warm,
welcoming and great hosts. Olivia is a spectacular chef. We were astounded by
the meals. Lots of wine. The cabin accommodations were perfect. The bathrooms
had been re-done. Our cabin was next to the galley, but we never heard a thing.
Great soundproofing. The salon was perfect for hanging out. We sat up top from
time to time, weather permitting. The barge route was fun. Peaceful. Bucolic
countryside with swans, cows and sheep. Quaint villages to poke around in.
S&J D. IN USA
The barge trip was great! The captain and crew were fabulous! The high points
were the food, wine and good friends.
R.L. Canada
The barge trip was fabulous! We both loved it immensely. The barge itself
(including our room), the owners Ruairi and Olivia, their staff, the food Olivia
prepared and wine pairings, the excursions--all of it was just terrific. The
cabin was super. Very comfortable. Turn-down service, twice-daily towel service,
and daily room make-up--all very nice and professional, right down to evening
chocolates left on our pillows. Service in the saloon was really fine. After
excursions, we could ask for drinks and they were brought quickly. A cocktail
hour involved staff making our drinks--a jolly time to get to know our
fellow-passengers. And meals were lovely; breakfast was buffet, but other meals
were served beautifully. The meals were fabulous, a main reason we like barge
tours and this was no disappointment. The buffet breakfast had a lovely and
tantalizing variety of things; lunches (on board as opposed to pub lunches on
excursions, where all were of high quality) were very nice and varied; and the
dinners were all superb, as were the wines. The excursions were great fun. We
really liked the first one, to Adare Manor and the falconry exhibition. That was
truly magical. Galway was fun; the bog track was terrific, especially for my
archaeologist wife; Clonmacnoise was fabulous; the tour of the other manor house
was lots of fun and very informative not only about the house but also the
period in Ireland.
J.D. IN, USA
We were totally happy with our trip. Service outstanding, side trips
interesting, and the food exceptional. Overall, the barge and cabin exceeded
our expectations. The crew were always pleasant, the beautiful meals and wines
were outstanding.
E.C., CA, USA
LINKS to Shannon Princess II Information
This page last updated December 25, 2023