Welcome to Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess
Visit the Emerald Isle of Ireland on a barge cruise aboard the 10-passenger, luxury hotel barge Shannon Princess II. Come and explore the lovely Irish countryside... not only the rich wildlife and spectacular scenery, but their myths and legends as well. Pass by ancient monasteries, prehistoric cities, forts and Celtic vilages, while floating along the tranquil Shannon river.
Owned and operated by Irish husband and wife team Ruairi Gibbons and Olivia Power, they have brought their shared knowledge, experience and passion onboard the Shannon Princess to create a very personalized and bespoke cruise experience. Ruairi as barge skipper/tour guide and Olivia as master chef, lead a handpicked professional crew, and you will be charmed with excellent but friendly service, gorgeous food & wines, and share in a slice of local life and knowledge.
Shannon Princess, accommodating 10 guests in comfort, is the largest hotel barge to be cruising the River Shannon and its picturesque, intertwining loughs. Her thoughtfully-designed interior includes a comfortable salon and dining area with panoramic windows. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by local craft and art. The five twin/double staterooms, also with picture windows, are stylishly furnished and each is air conditioned, centrally heated, and accompanied by a modern, ensuite shower room.
The large rooftop sundeck is certainly the place to relax, perhaps on one of the comfortable loungers, to watch the countryside glide slowly by, or in the headed spa pool. There is also an inviting al fresco dining area with circular table to savour that gourmet meal on warmer days.
The River Shannon, Ireland
The River Shannon represents Ireland at its finest. Rolling green fields, lakes and rivers, ancient Celtic monasteries and an abundance of wildlife. The legends and fables of Ireland are found everywhere and are well understood by the warm and hospitable Irish people. Their extraordinary history has been varied and sometimes difficult but they somehow always find the time to chat and discuss the time of day. The Shannon barge cruise brings you in touch with the very soul of Ireland. The 10-passenger Shannon Princess II is a spacious, powerful river cruise vessel specifically adapted for the Shannon.
The Shannon Princess follows the river's gentle curves, floating by dappled woodlands and floodplain meadows.
Enjoy an early morning stroll through twisting country lanes or a moonlight riverside rambling.
Be as active as you wish. The Shannon Princess can offer Bird Watching, Fishing, Walking, Cycling, Golf, and Horse Riding. There's ample opportunity to swim from the barge... take a dip in some of Europe's purest waters.
Barge Cruise highlights:
- Tour the legendary 6th-century Clonmacnoise ruins
- Full day excursion to Portumna Castle and Galway
- Traditional Guinness and oyster lunch
- Visit the unusual haunted Leap Castle
- Tour Birr Castle's Gardens and Science Centre
- Birds of prey demonstration at Adare Manor
- Tour of the Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery with a private tasting
- Visit a traditional Irish hand-weaving workshop
- Hear traditional Irish music
- Excellent walking and fishing opportunities
If you wish, for your charter, we can add many activities on an "a la carte basis", to our Classic Cruise itinerary - including golf, fishing and horse riding along the River Shannon.
Set your watch to Shannon time...
Relax... in tranquil comfort. Onboard accommodation is provided for up to 10 guests in 5 en-suite cabins with twin or king sized beds. Cabins are light filled, crisp & airy, with large riverside opening picture windows. Each guest cabin has its own modern, immaculate bathroom. Fully stocked with Heaven Scent organic bath produce.
Unwind... as the Shannon Princess slips through countryside little changed through the centuries, passing crumbling ivy covered ruins, medieval garrisons and sleepy market villages.
Enjoy... stunning views & evening cocktails on the private terrace style deck or in the charming open plan saloon. As the last rays of light wash over MV Shannon Princess and the River Shannon, soak up the Shannon's tranquil ambience and watch the world float by.
Learn more about Ireland
- Read about Towns, Villages, and Places to Visit Along the River Shannon
- Blog post: Barging in Ireland
- Tour the Ancient Clonmacnoise Ruins
- Enjoy a luxury barge cruise
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