Shore excursions program for below cruises

This panoramic sightseeing tour will take you to Cork, which is situated on the River Lee and is Ireland's second-largest city. Fondly regarded as the “real capital of Ireland” by the locals, Cork has become the modern-day shopping and commercial centre of the south. The tour includes photo stops at St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the old Courthouse, the City Hall and the renowned Bells of Shandon in the clock tower of St. Anne’s Church. Continuing on foot to the very heart of the city, you will then reach the beautiful indoor English Market, which dates back to 1788 and is famed for its fabulous selection of traditional Cork specialities as well as fresh meat, fruit and vegetables. Don’t miss this opportunity to soak up the historic feel of the market and indulge in a truly unique shopping experience. The tour concludes with some free time to spend in town before you return to the port.

After leaving Cork, the tour takes you north through the towns of Fermoy and Mallow before entering the wonderful county of Tipperary, the largest inland county in Ireland. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery and rich pasturelands, Tipperary boats the best of Irish dairy products. The next stop on the tour is the Rock of Cashel, an impressive pre-Christian settlement which is visible on the skyline long before you reach the town itself. The town of Cashel has long been a place of great significance and was the royal seat of the kings of Munster in the 5^th century A.D.. After a stop for lunch, the afternoon will be spent visiting Cahir Castle, which is located on the River Suir and dates back to the 15^th century. Once the stronghold of the powerful Butler family, the superbly preserved castle retains its impressive keep, tower and much of its original defensive structure. The tour concludes with your return to port and the ship.