The Shannon Princess barge offers a custom or classic River Shannon cruise in Ireland, with gourmet meals, chef-selected wines, onboard bikes & fishing options. Enjoy optional charter themes of cycling, golf, fishing, pony-trekking, antiques, crafts or spa treatments.
Classic Ireland River Cruise
Book your 7-day Ireland barge cruise aboard the 10-guest Shannon Princess. Along the way, enjoy Irish music, falconry, castles, pubs, the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, artisan craft villages and the welcoming people of The Emerald Isle.
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
FROM
$7,390
USD
PER PERSON
/
When it comes to river cruises, Ireland remains one of the most fascinating undiscovered locations in the world. Offering a mixture of folklore, quaint customs, friendly locals and the sort of lush green landscapes which earn the island its nickname of The Emerald Isle, this Classic Ireland River Cruise is sure to satisfy even the most demanding enthusiasts! During this Classic Ireland River Cruise, the nation’s very soul is placed within reach, including experiences of Irish music, crafts such as weaving, and a drop or more of their wonderful whiskey.
The Shannon is perhaps the ultimate location to enjoy the best river cruises. The country’s rolling green pastures, ancient Celtic monasteries and an abundance of wildlife are common place on this Ireland barge cruise’s carefully chosen route. Shannon River cruises in Ireland reveal legends and fables as well as the warm and hospitable Irish people. The people’s extraordinary history has been varied and sometimes difficult but they will always find the time to chat and pass the time of day.
Each departure operates round-trip from Dublin, Ireland, either cruising from Glasson south to Killaloe and returning via overland transfer back to Dublin, or in reverse starting with an overland transfer to Killaloe and cruising north back to Glasson with a return overland transfer back to Dublin. Each departure’s direction is typically confirmed 6-8 weeks in advance.
Cruise aboard the 10-passenger Shannon Princess, a spacious and powerful river cruise vessel specifically adapted for this waterway. She provides Shannon River cruises in Ireland throughout the season. Her experienced captain and crew go out of their way to ensure guests’ every need is accommodated. The onboard Master Chef was trained at the renowned Ballmaloe School and offers distinguished creations and signature dishes.
Securing Shannon Princess for private charter cruises in Ireland offers opportunities for themes including cycling, golf, fishing, pony-trekking, antiques, crafts and even spa treatments, or customize your own itinerary.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Classic Cruise—Ireland Itinerary
Dublin to Glasson, Ireland & EmbarkKillaloe, Ireland, Transfer to Dublin & Depart
The main Classic Ireland River Cruise operates round-trip from Dublin, with an overland transfer to and from the ship. Embark in Glasson and cruise south to Killaloe. Along the way, explore castles, pubs, the world’s oldest licensed whisky distillery and artisan craft villages.
Be met in Dublin and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. The captain and crew welcome with champagne, Black Velvets or Irish coffees. Time perhaps for a gentle stroll before the first dinner on board.
This morning, begin the cruise around the beautiful inner lakes of Lough Ree and then continue north to explore some of the 365 islands on the lake. Circle back to the River Shannon and onto the ship’s mooring in Athlone Town. After lunch, 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.
Today the ship negotiates Athlone Lock and heads south through Europe’s richest example of Callow landscape. Moor at Clonmacnoise ruins, a famed 6th century university and an early monastic settlement. Following a tour, cruise on to the ship’s mooring at Shannonbridge. After lunch visit Leap Castle, reputed to be Ireland’s most haunted house. Enjoy a personal tour by the eccentric owner Sean Ryan who, along with traditional Irish musicians, will explain the fascinating history of the castle and its part in founding the American Constitution. After dinner on board, perhaps join the captain for a pint in Killeen’s pub and an evening with the locals.
This morning, cruise a very pretty stretch of the River Shannon through Meelick lock, pausing as Portumna swing bridge is opened to allow the ship passage onto idyllic Lough Derg, then moor at Terryglass Harbor. This afternoon visit Birr Castle, still resided in by the Earl of Rosse and family, to see the magnificent gardens and the fascinating Science Center, and admire the historic Great Telescope. Dinner on board.
Today, the first tour is to the walled gardens of Portumna Castle, then on to Galway, a lively university city and cultural center for Irish-speaking regions in Western Ireland. Visit the Galway crystal, craft and linen shops and then lunch at a traditional Guinness & Oyster pub. Return to the ship and set sail across beautiful Lough Derg, passing Forrest Park and ancient mountains while enjoying dinner and a sunset cruise to Mountshannon—a lovely lakeside village perched above the Lough.
Today 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, enjoy 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, 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. End the afternoon by visiting a traditional Irish hand-weaving workshop. Sláinte cocktail reception and captain’s farewell dinner on board.
After breakfast, disembark the ship and be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to Dublin.
Included
Local transfers between Dublin and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 2 hours or 2.5 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including wireless internet access, spa-pool and bicycles on request.
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The main Classic Ireland River Cruise operates round-trip from Dublin, Ireland (DUB), with an overland transfer to the embarkation point of Glasson. Cruise to Killaloe and end with an overland transfer back to Dublin. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Dublin (DUB) in time for the 3:00pm group transfer from the Brooks Hotel, Dublin to the ship on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart Dublin no earlier than 2:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to your choice of location in Dublin, or the Dublin airport by 12:00pm Noon. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking and biking when weather and time permit.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a supplement of $2,400 (value departures 2026), or $2,700 (regular departures 2026) in addition to the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability.
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Reverse Classic Cruise—Ireland Itinerary
Dublin to Killaloe, Ireland & EmbarkGlasson, Ireland, Transfer to Dublin & Depart
The reverse Classic Ireland River Cruise operates round-trip from Dublin, with an overland transfer to and from the ship. Embark in Killaloe and cruise north to Glasson. Along the way, explore castles, pubs, the world’s oldest licensed whisky distillery and artisan craft villages.
Be met in Dublin and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. The captain and his crew welcome all on board with
champagne, Black Velvets or Irish coffees, then time for a stroll and perhaps a visit to St. Flannan’s Cathedral. Dinner on board.
Begin today’s cruise by moving through from the fjord-like reaches of the River Shannon into lovely Lough Derg and on to the ship’s mooring at Mountshannon. After lunch on board, set off to Adare Manor, a magnificent estate located on the banks of the River Maigue. Here, in the setting of the Walled Garden, 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. End the afternoon by visiting a traditional Irish hand-weaving workshop. Dinner on board.
This morning, during a leisurely cruise across beautiful Lough Derg with its ever-changing backdrop, pass the island of Illamore to moor in the harbor of Terryglass, a picturesque, waterside village. After lunch, visit Leap Castle, reputed to be Ireland’s most haunted house. Enjoy a personal tour by the eccentric owner Sean Ryan who, along with traditional Irish musicians, will explain the fascinating history of the castle and its part in founding the American Constitution. Dinner on board.
Today’s first tour is to the walled gardens of Portumna Castle, then on to Galway, a lively University City and cultural center for Irish-speaking regions in Western Ireland. Visit the Galway crystal, craft and linen shops and then lunch at a traditional Guinness & Oyster pub. Return to the ship and enjoy an afternoon cruise, negotiating the Portumna swing bridge and Meelick lock along the way, while enjoying dinner and a sunset cruise to arrive at Banagher, on the County Offaly shoreline.
Today’s cruise is towards the riverside town of Athlone, mooring en route at Clonmacnoise ruins, a famed 6th century university and early monastic settlement. Following a tour, continue the cruise north through Europe’s richest example of Callow landscape, countryside little changed in over 1,000 years and one of Ireland’s premier wildfowl reserves, to arrive in Athlone. Take time to explore the town before dinner on board.
The final cruise to Glasson is northwards around the beautiful inner lakes of Lough Ree ; explore some of the 365 islands on the lake. After lunch, visit the Kilbeggan whiskey distillery, dating from 1757 and the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in Ireland, for a tour and, of course, a tasting. Sláinte cocktail reception and captain’s farewell dinner on board.
After breakfast, disembark the ship and be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to Dublin.
Included
Local transfers between Dublin and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 2 hours or 2.5 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including wireless internet access, spa-pool and bicycles on request.
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The reverse Classic Ireland River Cruise operates round-trip from Dublin, Ireland (DUB), with an overland transfer to the embarkation point of Killaloe. Cruise to Glasson and end with an overland transfer back to Dublin. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Dublin (DUB) in time for the 3:00pm group transfer from the Brooks Hotel, Dublin to the ship on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart Dublin no earlier than 2:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred to your choice of location in Dublin, or the Dublin airport by 12:00pm Noon. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking and biking when weather and time permit.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a supplement of $2,400 (value departures 2026), or $2,700 (regular departures 2026) in addition to the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability.
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The charming 10-guest Shannon Princess barge features thoughtful, inviting spaces for ultimate relaxation while taking in the sights and sounds of the Irish countryside. Cruise the River Shannon and its picturesque intertwining lakes in comfort and style aboard a modern-made hotel barge that's ready to reveal rolling green fields, ancient Celtic landmarks and an abundance of wildlife.
Shannon Princess Barge Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Shannon Princess review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Shannon Princess barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Shannon Princess canal boat in Ireland with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Shannon Princess barge for a hospitable Irish atmosphere paired with cuisine evocative of the landscapes through which she drifts. Immerse in Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and traditions, with daily options to explore by bike and on foot, as well as excellent fishing opportunities. This canal boat in Ireland is also an excellent option for private charter cruises, with themes including cycling, golf, fishing, pony-trekking, antiques, crafts and even spa treatments, or customize your own itinerary.
Common Areas Aboard Shannon Princess
Shannon Princess barge's light and airy saloon and dining area is wrapped in large picture windows that usher in the Irish countryside as the hotel barge rambles along. The well-stocked bar offers a wide range of wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks. The contemporary interior provides a feeling of respite among large sofas, armchairs and coffee tables. A door out to the lower sun deck invites indoor and outdoor lounging. The upper sun deck features a large outdoor patio that welcomes guests to observe Ireland's rolling hills from the hot tub, chaise loungers, sofas, wicker chairs and dining table for al fresco meals.
Dining Aboard Shannon Princess
This canal boat in Ireland invites her 10 guests to dine alongside each other at a communal table, with open seating. A relaxed ambiance is livened by gourmet fare and wine pairings delivered daily by the Master Chef. Signature dishes feature both classic Irish provisions and international favorites prepared by a Ballmaloe School-trained culinarian. Most allergies, preferences and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
The daily continental-style breakfast offers options such as onboard-baked fresh breads and pastries, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee; or opt for a full cooked Irish breakfast. Lunch typically features colorful salads, pates and fish dishes, and the occasional outdoor picnic on the upper sun deck, all paired with chef-selected wines. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, complemented by fine wines and followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea and milk are included, as is a 24-hour bar with wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
Activities Aboard Shannon Princess
When docked, this Irish hotel barge meets its 12-guest minibus for transfers and excursions that aren't within walking distance. Internet access is available at libraries and cyber cafes within the towns and villages visited during the cruise. The ship welcomes guests to remain on board during excursions as desired, or guests may choose to walk, ride a bike or fish both during excursions or while the Ireland barge cruises. Two bicycles are carried on board, and additional bikes can be provisioned with advanced notice. While the Princess Shannon barge does not carry fishing rods, a Gillie can be hired who will provide rods, the boat and all necessary equipment to take advantage of the outstanding fishing opportunities along the way.
On board, passengers may enjoy complimentary WiFi on their personal devices, subject to availability in remote locations. Passenger iPods may be connected to the stereo system, or CDs are available to enjoy. The upper sun deck's 5-person hot tub provides moments of relaxation while the Ireland barge meanders along. Entertainment options also include a small library of books and maps to peruse, a collection of board games to play and binoculars for spotting birds. The open bridge encourages guests to chat with the captain and perhaps learn more about the vessel and Irish countryside through which she roams.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Shannon Princess
The Shannon Princess barge's five temperature-controlled cabins each offers a choice of two single beds or one double bed. Large opening panoramic windows enable unrestricted views from each above-waterline suite. Each suite includes a fully tiled ensuite bathroom with shower, sink, toilet, 110-volt shaving socket, extractor fan, body wash, hand soap, shampoo, shower cap, towels, bathrobes and hair dryer. Each suite also offers a safe to secure valuables, as well as a closet with ample storage space, bottled water and chocolates. The Shannon Princess barge is wired for 220 volts, with sockets which correspond to the standard UK three-pin plug.
Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect
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Expert Review: What It’s Like on a European Barge Cruise
Bagpipes, whiskey, falcons, towpaths and lochs greeted AdventureSmith’s Lisa as she explored Scotland via a 12-guest barge. Learn all about the European barge cruise experience in this detailed review.
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