Group Travel Tour Operator and DMC for Athlone, Ireland
Galway and The Little Boats of Ireland
-
Viking Cruises, Athlone, Co Westmeath, Ireland
-
Strokestown Park Gardens ©Photo by Colin Shanahan - DigiCol Photography
-
Boats on the River Shannon ©Photographer Chris Hill, Failte Ireland, Tourism Ireland
-
Moon River, Carrick On Shannon, Ireland - The Boat
The River Shannon is Ireland’s longest river and is closely bound up with the country’s social, cultural, military, economic and political history. See Ireland’s history from the water as you cruise on this mighty river and its lakes.
Discover our other Irish tours here
Cruising the Shannon and Irish Lakes map
Dates
2027 dates on request
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Depart the UK
Take the afternoon ferry crossing from Holyhead to Dublin, then a short drive to your hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2
Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement and Cruise
We begin our journey toward Athlone with a stop at Clonmacnoise, an important early Christian site nestled along the banks of the River Shannon. After exploring this historic location, we will board our boat for a scenic cruise that takes us to Athlone. The picturesque ride will provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the tranquil river, setting the perfect tone for our arrival in the charming town of Athlone.
Day 3
Athlone and ‘The king of Lakes’ Cruise (coach drivers’ rest day)
Spend a delightful day in Athlone, where you might want to explore Sean’s Bar, Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to AD 900, or visit the impressive Athlone Castle. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a lively cruise with Captain ‘Viking Mike’ along the Shannon River and into Lough Ree, where you can take in some of the most breathtaking and pristine scenery that Ireland has to offer.
Day 4
Strokestown Park, Famine Museum and Moon River Cruise
In the morning, we’ll visit Strokestown Park along with its stunning Palladian Mansion. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch in Carrick-on-Shannon. Later in the afternoon, we’ll embark on a scenic cruise featuring live music and engaging commentary, allowing us to soak in the magnificent views along the way.
Day 5
Galway ‘The City of Tribes’ and Corrib River Cruise
We’ll make our way to Galway City, a vibrant bohemian hub along the Wild Atlantic Way. Enjoy a walking tour of the medieval and colourful town as you listen to intriguing tales from its rich history. After some free time for lunch, we’ll set off on a delightful cruise along the majestic River Corrib, complete with live commentary to enhance our experience.
Day 6
The Irish Workhouse and the ‘Hidden Heartlands’ Cruise.
Following the mighty Shannon River, we journey south to Portumna for a captivating visit and guided tour of the often-maligned institution known as ‘The Irish Workhouse.’ Afterward, we’ll proceed to Ballina, where you’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a scenic cruise on Loch Derg aboard the ‘Spirit of Killaloe,’ where we’ll learn about the local heritage and history. Our day will conclude as we make our way to our final hotel near Dublin for dinner and overnight accommodations.
Day 7
Return to the UK
After enjoying an early breakfast, we will board the ferry to begin our journey back home.
Suggested Hotels
Shamrock Lodge Hotel , Athlone ***
This charming family-run hotel is set amidst beautiful gardens, conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from the vibrant restaurants, bars, and nightlife of Athlone town center. Guests can savor delightful meals at the hotel bar and restaurant, which is renowned across the Midlands for its exceptional cuisine. The hotel features 40 deluxe and superior bedrooms, all equipped with free Wi-Fi, TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Some rooms even offer picturesque views of the gardens, and there are 8 ground floor rooms available for added convenience.
The Hodson Bay ****
Hodson Bay Hotel has been at the forefront of Irish hospitality. Nestled on the serene shores of Lough Ree, just five minutes from Athlone and in the heart of Ireland’s stunning Lakelands, the hotel boasts 176 elegantly appointed rooms. Guests can indulge in exceptional dining, unwind at the state-of-the-art leisure centre and luxury spa. Room facilities include Wifi, Flat screen TV, Tea & Coffee making facilities, Iron, Hairdryer and free toiletries. Lake view Roos for an additional charge upon request.
4 x nights Athlone- Overnights available on request
| Dates | 7 days / 6 nights |
| 2027 dates available on request | Price available on request |
Prices include return ferry. If you would like a price travelling by air, please do not hesitate to contact us.
