MV Shannon Princess

Imagine days spent meandering effortlessly through some of the most wonderful scenery in Ireland , gentle hours passed far from the madding crowds of everyday life, gliding past ancient monasteries, fairyforts and Celtic settlements....

This idyllic dream is realised when you enjoy a journey of seven days and six nights aboard the MV Shannon Princess - the most luxurious of hotel barges cruising the magnificent River Shannon. The heart of Ireland is yours to discover as you embark upon this most memorable of river cruises.

This is the most extensive inland waterway in Ireland and Britain, set amongst a spectacular landscape which is shrouded in legends, myths and the gentle mists of time. Little has changed over the centuries - Norman Keeps and Viking Towers still keep watch as the Shannon Princess sails through the unspoilt waterways of the Shannon.

You have the choice to avail of the wide variety of activities available in the area: scenic trail rides and lakeshore treks, championship golf courses , rich fishing in the Shannon, unequalled bird watching and even the chance to cycle through the lovely County Clare countryside to the next port of call.

After a day out on deck, enjoying the tranquility and unhurried pace of life on the River Shannon, you will look forward to the culinary delights prepared by the Shannon Princess' chef. Trained at the internationally renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School, her cuisine has become something of a gourmet legend on the waterways of the Shannon region. You will soon see why as you savour dishes of the finest and freshest ingredients, gathered from local country markets. Breakfast and lunch are similarly indulgent as your chef showcases her talents at every meal.

Stylish and elegant cabins, similar to those of a private yacht, provide every comfort as you retire for the night. Before then though, the well-stocked bar is the perfect venue where you can relax, unwind and savour this idyllic journey through Ireland.

After your arrival at Dublin airport , you will be met at the Aberdeen Lodge and transferred by private coach to the Shannon Princess which will be moored in Athlone. Once aboard, enjoy a welcoming Irish Coffee or a pint of Murphys in readiness for your special week.

You will visit the renowned Medieval Monastery of Clonmacnois which dates from the sixth century AD and was the burial ground of the High Kings of Ireland. The path of the Shannon will lead you to the prehistoric site "The Living Past" which brings Bronze Age and Celtic Culture alive within the grounds of Craggaunowen Castle.

One evening you will experience legendary Irish hospitality in one of the traditional "singing" pubs of the region before visiting the remarkable Cloghan Castle, home of the Coughlan family who are only too pleased to show their wonderful home to visitors.

One day you will both look back fondly on your day in the colorful, exciting city of Galway. Stroll through the streets and you will understand why the city is seen as the cultural capital of Ireland - artistic, inspiring and free-spirited.

After a fascinating morning visiting the famous Mountshannon Fishing Center, you will continue aboard the Shannon Princess towards your final destination, Killaloe . Here, lunch in this historic town will prepare you for a tour around the thirteenth century St Flannan's Cathedral.

On the seventh day of your luxury cruise along the River Shannon through this wonderful part of Ireland, after a week touring past fishermen, wild deer and grazing cattle, it is time to wave goodbye to the Shannon Princess, vowing to return again one day...

See also the Shannon Princess Walking Itinerary