Duration: approx. 4 hours

Leave the port for a panoramic sightseeing tour of Cork, Ireland's second-largest city. The busy city is just as much an industrial centre as it is a major shopping destination. The principal streets are lined with fashion houses and department stores stocking top-quality Irish goods. After taking you to see the city’s principal sights including the University, the Opera House and St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the tour continues with a visit to the lovely village of Blarney and Blarney Castle for a step back in time. Those who wish to be blessed with the “gift of the gab” should not miss this great opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone, which is just one of the castle’s attractions.

Founded in A.D. 914 by the Vikings and later extended by the Anglo-Normans, Waterford is set in a commanding position near the estuary of the River Suir. It became southeast Ireland's main seaport and from the 18th century onwards the city's prosperity was consolidated by local industries, including the former glassworks for which Waterford is famous. This panoramic city tour starts with a visit to the extensive remains of the ancient walls, which clearly define the area originally fortified by the Viking, as well as Reginald's Tower, a visible reminder of Viking power that is said to date back to the 10^th century. Your will have time to explore the old pedestrian quarters on your own, after which the tour will continue on to the famous Waterford Crystal visitors’ centre, which is located out of town. A guided factory tour will take you through every stage of the production process during which heat is used to transform ordinary sand, lead and potash into glittering lead crystal. After stopping for lunch, the tour continues on to Lismore, which was founded by St. Carthage in the 7^th century and today is classed as a heritage town by the Irish Tourist Board. Before returning to the ship, a photo stop will be made at Lismore Castle, which was once home to Sir Walter Raleigh and today is the Irish residence of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.