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Barge Cruise: Shannon Princess II
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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

    Shannon Princess cruising on the Shannon
River
    Shannon Princess cruising on the Shannon River

    Clonmacnoise
    Clonmacnoise

    Irish Music
    Irish Music

    Birr Castle
    Birr Castle

    Adare Manor
    Adare Manor

    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


    A taste of the gourmet cuisine served aboard
the Shannon Princess. 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
    DINNER
    DESSERTS
    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



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    This page last updated December 25, 2023