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Tours
7-Nights Ireland Forever from $5,590
Tauck
OFFER ID 1553111
Ireland Forever
Irresistibly Irish, discover... Dublin on a scavenger hunt that reveals the city throughout the ages... the story of the Titanic and Irish emigration... race horses, birds of prey and sheep dogs... artistic inspiration during a pottery lesson... and family-inspired fun on a journey designed for the entire family.
Hands-on family fun has everyone's eyes a-smiling... attend a private barbecue dinner during a three-night stay at a resort in Cork... explore Dublin on a treasure hunt that takes you back in time, from the Viking ages to the Middle Ages... uncover the real story of the Titanic... learn all about sheep dogs at a demonstration at a sheep farm and birds of prey at a falconry experience... discover your artistic side at a hands-on demonstration in Irish pottery making... and revel in the real Ireland along the "Wild Atlantic Way"...
7 nights from $5,590 per person
Itinerary Details
Tauck World Discovery: Ireland Forever
Day 1 Dublin, Ireland
Arrive Dublin and explore
Tour begins: 1:00 PM, The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection. A transfer is included from Dublin Airport to one of Ireland's premier hotels, the The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection, centrally located in the heart of the Irish capital on St. Stephen's Green. Your family will have the perfect introduction to the city - and a lot of fun - on a treasure hunt within the fascinating Little Museum. The Little Museum of Dublin is a charming and unique cultural gem nestled in the heart of the Irish capital, also located on St. Stephen's Green just a few doors down from your hotel. Enjoy a captivating journey through the history and culture of Dublin in the 20th century. Despite its modest size, the museum's collection is expansive and eclectic, featuring a diverse array of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that vividly illustrate the city's rich and colorful past. Join us tonight for a welcome dinner at your elegant hotel.
Meals: D
Day 2 Cork, Ireland
Race horses and the Titanic
Horses, racing and Ireland, are a rich part of history and legends. Depart Dublin today for a visit to the Irish National Stud & Gardens in Kildare for the immersive Irish Racehorse Experience. Continue on to Cobh, where the Titanic picked up 123 passengers on April 11, 1912 on its ill-fated maiden voyage across the sea. Learn more at Titanic Experience Cobh, located in the historic White Star Line ticket office, telling the story of the ship and Irish emigration. End the day at a five-star resort hotel set on an island in Cork.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3 Cork, Ireland
A visit to the old fishing town of Kinsale
Visit Kinsale, whose Irish name means "head of the brine"; where freshwater River Bandon meets the saltwater of the sea. A charming fishing village, the town enjoys a reputation for fresh seafood, gourmet cuisine, the arts, and as a summer retreat for Irish families. Return to the resort late afternoon, and join us tonight for a barbecue dinner.
Meals: B, D
Day 4 Cork, Ireland
Resort fun and Fota Wildlife Park, Fota House and Gardens
This morning, your family enjoys a variety of outdoor activities at the resort. After lunch, head out to Fota Wildlife Park; the breathtaking conservation park offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a natural and spacious environment. Spanning over 100 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Fota is home to a diverse range of animals from around the world, including endangered species such as cheetahs, giraffes, and Sumatran tigers. Unlike traditional zoos, Fota operates on a free-roaming concept, allowing many of its inhabitants to roam freely within large enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. This approach not only provides a more enriching experience for visitors but also promotes the well-being and conservation of the animals - it's a memorable and inspiring experience for nature lovers of all ages. Next, a visit to Fota House and Gardens - a stunning example of Georgian architecture and horticultural ingenuity. The grand mansion, dating back to the 18th century, exudes elegance and charm, with its graceful facade, intricate detailing, and beautifully manicured gardens. You'll be transported back in time exploring the opulent interiors; beyond the grandeur of the house, the surrounding gardens offer a tranquil oasis of natural beauty, featuring winding pathways, serene water features, and an impressive collection of rare and exotic plants. Dinner this evening is at your hotel.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5 Killarney, Ireland
Sheep dogs, falconry & a jaunting car
En route to picturesque Killarney, your family will learn all about sheep dogs at a demonstration at a sheep farm. Continue to Killarney, where the magical landscapes and rich stories intertwine on a tour by "jaunting car" (horse & carriage). The day ends with a falconry experience - the "sport of kings" is an ancient art, thought to be 4,000 years old - and is both educational and entertaining. You'll see several varieties of birds of prey including hawks, falcons and owls, with many species of each. Return to your hotel late afternoon and spend the remainder of the day as you please.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 6 Killarney, Ireland
A lake cruise and a day in Killarney
A morning cruise along Lough Leane, the picturesque lower lake of the Lakes of Killarney, reveals panoramic landscapes that are the inspiration behind many Irish arts. The remainder of the day is free to explore Killarney as your family pleases.
Meals: B
Day 7 Kildare Ireland
Cliffs of Moher and the "Wild Atlantic Way"
Keep your camera at the ready today as you travel to the County Clare coast to visit one of the world's most photographed natural wonders. Some five miles long, the Cliffs of Moher soar 659 feet over the crashing Atlantic Ocean waves below, providing you with amazing bird's-eye views of the craggy Irish coast... can't wait to see the pictures! Visit the town of Ennis for lunch, then head back east to County Kildare and the fabulous Carton House; join us for a farewell reception and dinner.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 8 Dublin, Ireland
Journey home
Tour ends: Maynooth / Dublin. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included to Dublin Airport from Carton House; allow 3 1/2 hours for flight check-in at the airport. Please note: Airline schedules and arrival departure details may fluctuate; ask at time of booking.
Meals: B
The county town of Kildare, Ireland, is set in the heart of the Curragh, the huge, grassy limestone plain 30 mi/48 km southwest of Dublin where Ireland's famous racehorses are bred. Its main attraction is the Irish National Stud on the outskirts of town, where in 1900 Colonel William Hall-Walker used astrology and other unusual theories to produce a string of winners. He gave the facilities and horses to the state in 1943, and today owners from around the world breed and train their horses there. On the adjacent grounds (accessible with the same ticket) are the lovely Japanese Gardens and St. Fiachra's Garden.
In Kildare town, you can climb the round tower next to St. Brigid's Cathedral.
Excursions
Cork's Fabulous Food Trail - Half Day Tour
Cork's Fabulous Food Trail - Half Day Tour
Meet with your driver and enjoy the short scenic drive along the banks of the River Lee to the Food Capital of Ireland, Cork City where your Fabulous Food Trail begins.
On arrival meet your local food guide and embark on a gentle 2.5 hour culinary walk of the best this city has to offer. During your tour you will enjoy frequent stops and lots of generous tastings of local cheeses, pastries and savoury delights. In this particular corner of Ireland, no self-respecting foodie would begin a culinary trail without first visiting the iconic English Market in the heart of Cork city. This Victorian gem has been faithfully serving food to the people of Cork for more than a century.
A morning at the English Market immerses you in the unique cadence of life in Cork and caters for just about all culinary tastes and eating occasions. Amongst its many appetizing edible delights are chocolates and cakes, cheeses and pastas. There is time to chat with locals and food producers alike as Cork people have a wonderful sense of humour and simply love to chat!.
As you stroll through the city your guide will point out Cork’s more interesting architectural features and recount some of it’s history.
After your walk there is some free time to explore this wonderful city on your own before meeting with your driver for transfer back to your ship.
Inclusions
- Private Driver Guide
Cork - Blarney & Kinsale - Full Day Tour
Cork - Blarney & Kinsale - Full Day Tour
Today you will have the opportunity to visit the world famous Blarney Castle, Charles Fort, as well as Ireland’s Gourmet Restaurants Capital, the town of Kinsale.
After your whistle-stop tour of Cork City, visit Blarney Castle (situated just north of Cork City). This castle was completed in 1446 by Cormac Mc Carthy, and is famous the world over for the Blarney Stone, which upon kissing, bestows the eternal gift of eloquence on those lucky enough to do so.
About Kinsale:
Kinsale in County Cork is one of the most picturesque, popular and fashionable resorts of the south-west coast of Ireland and famous for its beautiful yachting, sea angling, gourmet restaurants and golf. Art galleries in Kinsale can easily claim its place amongst Ireland's most historic locations for this has been a centre of population, commerce, trade and fishing far beyond memory and record.
In its earliest days the estuary of the Bandon River gave Kinsale great importance as the river is tidal and water transport was dominant until the 18th Century. The estuary also provided excellent anchorage for ancient shipping which went in peril of the vagaries of the weather. The Town nestles between the hills and the shoreline, it is a maze of narrow streets and is never far from the water - little has changed in many hundreds of years. Amongst buildings of later periods are those of another age with historical links to the French, Spanish, British and Americans.
Charles Fort, Kinsale
Perhaps the best-known historical attraction in Kinsale, Charles Fort, is on the road just beyond Summercove. It is open all year, and regular guided tours are available. Charles Fort is one of the finest surviving examples of a 17th Century star-shaped fort, and much of the construction begun in 1678 remains. The fort has two enormous bastions overlooking the estuary, and three facing inland. Within its walls were all the barracks and ancillary facilities to support the fort’s garrison. The fort continued in military use until 1922.
Lunch included at Blarney Woollen Mills or Kinsale
Inclusions
- Private Driver Guide
- Entrance to Blarney Castle
- Entrance to Charles Fort Kinsale
- Lunch
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour (4 hours) (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour (4 hours) (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Guided Sightseeing Option: Please see below for details on this option.
Enjoy a private chauffeur driven luxury sedan for “Guided Sightseeing” touring.
Cork
Meet your expert local driver/guide for the drive to Cork.
Your first stop of the day is a visit to the Cobh Heritage Centre a dramatic exhibition of the origins, history and legacy of Cobh. Known previously as Queenstown this was the main port for Irish emigrants to Canada and the United States. The famine resulted as a consequence of widespread potato crop failure. In 1846, the potato crop failed completely and in the years 1847-1849, escape was seen by many as the only chance for survival - between 1845 and 1851 over 1,500,000 people emigrated from Ireland.
On April 11, 1912, the newly built Titanic called to the port of Queenstown (now known as Cobh) on her maiden voyage. Titanic had set out from Southampton and called to Cherbourg before her final call to Queenstown (Cobh). The story of the Titanic and the White Star line is also told at the Cobh Heritage Centre.
Leaving Cobh behind drive to Midleton. Visit The Jameson Old Midleton Distillery which is a wonderful, worthwhile excursion. Tour the distillery and learn how the world famous Irish whiskey is made. Here you will have the opportunity to taste the sample some of Ireland’s finest whiskies.
Return to the ship.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking driver/guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees for listed sights
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Gratuities to driver/guide*
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Items of personal nature
*Gratuities have been prepaid. Additional gratuities are at guest’s discretion.
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 4 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 4 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Guided Sightseeing Option: Please see below for details on this option.
Meet your expert local guide for the drive to Cork.
Your first stop of the day is a visit to the Cobh Heritage Centre, a dramatic exhibition of the origins, history and legacy of Cobh. Known previously as Queenstown, this was the main port for Irish emigrants to Canada and the United States. In 1846, the potato crop failed completely and in the years 1847-1849, escape was seen by many as the only chance for survival - between 1845 and 1851 over 1,500,000 people emigrated from Ireland.
On the 11th April 1912, the newly built Titanic called to the port of Queenstown (now known as Cobh) on her maiden voyage. Titanic had set out from Southampton and called to Cherbourg before her final call to Queenstown (Cobh). The story of the Titanic and the White Star line is also told at the Cobh Heritage Centre.
Then, leaving Cobh behind, enjoy the drive to Midleton. Here, you will visit The Jameson Old Midleton Distillery. You will tour the distillery and learn how the world famous Irish whiskey is made. You will have the opportunity to sample some of Ireland’s finest whiskies.
Return to your ship.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking driver-guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees for listed sights
- Gratuities to driver-guide*
- Bottled water in the vehicle
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Items of personal nature
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Guided Sightseeing Option: Please see below for details on this option.
Meet your expert local guide for the drive to Cork.
Enjoy the drive through the attractive City of Cork which hosts some fine Georgian architecture, the imposing St Finbarr’s Cathedral, great shopping and many pubs. You will continue your journey into the Irish countryside to the pretty town of Blarney.
In Blarney, you will visit the 15th Century Blarney Castle, famous for its stone, which is traditionally believed to have the power to bestow eloquence on all those who kiss it. The stone itself is set in the wall below the battlements and to kiss it, one has to lean backwards (holding on to an iron railing) from the parapet walk.
Then, enjoy some free time in the Blarney Woollen Mills store that sells Irish gifts including Waterford Crystal, Beleek China, Lladro, Aran Sweaters, Irish Crystal, Irish Linen, Irish Jewelry, and Celtic Gifts.
You will have time for lunch on your own.
Following lunch, you will visit the Cork City Gaol. Here you can step back in time to see what 19th Century life was like in Cork – inside and outside prison walls. Amazingly life-like figures, furnished cells, sound effects, and fascinating exhibitions are to be seen.
Return to your ship.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking driver-guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees for listed sights
- Gratuities to driver-guide*
- Bottled water in the vehicle
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Items of personal nature
Cork’s Culture and Heritage – full day tour
Cork’s Culture and Heritage – full day tour
This morning we visit to the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, one of the most historic buildings in Cork, parts of which date back to the early eighteenth century. The gallery has an interesting frontage of red brick dressed with limestone and was built in 1724 as the Custom House. The permanent collection comprises over 2500 works, ranging from eighteenth century Irish and European painting and sculpture, through to contemporary video installations. At the heart of the collection is a collection of Greek and Roman sculpture casts, brought to Cork in 1818 from the Vatican Museum in Rome. We also visit Cork Museum, which houses very fine collections of Cork silver and glass as well as Youghal Needlepoint Lace.
Continuing on to Glanmire on the outskirts of Cork and visit Riverstown House, which was rebuilt in 1745 and is home to some fine plasterwork by the Francini brothers, of particular interest is the dining room ceiling which is adorned with allegorical figures and the Green Drawing Room which is notable for its exceptionally fine timber carved fireplace.
We conclude our Cork City tour with a visit to nearby Lakemount Gardens, a privately owned garden on acid soil overlooking Cork Harbour. It has many flourishing ericaceous plants, including the more tender rhododendrons. Retaining walls and raised beds built from local stone provide a home for rock plants, choice dwarf shrubs and a collection of primulas. Hydrangeas are particularly good in late summer, whilst the many Japanese acers throughout the garden produce brilliant autumn colour. Unusual climbers can be seen on the walls of the conservatory, which shelters exotic varieties.
Your driver with then transfer you back to your ship.
Excursions
Dublin: Highlights of Dublin City - 8 hours
Dublin: Highlights of Dublin City - 8 hours
Ireland, known affectionately as the “the Emerald Isle” is renowned for its excellent hospitality and you can be assured of a warm welcome by your guide and driver, who will meet you at the port. Discover the history, literary heritage and culture that lies behind Dublin’s elegant Georgian architecture and famous landmarks, during your full-day tour.
Founded in the 16th-century, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and holds the Book of Kells, a greatly treasured example of early Irish manuscript illumination. History lovers may opt to visit the nearby Treasury of the National Museum or EPIC - the interactive museum commemorating the emigration of 10 million Irish. For those interested in art, the National Gallery houses a superb collection.
Afterwards make a lunchtime pit stop at the Guinness Storehouse, where you learn how a pint of the world-famous Guinness is created. The heart of the building is modelled on a giant pint glass, which would hold approximately 14 million pints of Guinness beer if filled! Enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which boast 360-degree views of the capital.
Complete your touring this afternoon, with a visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels. Here, take a guided tour of the impressive staterooms which are a longtime symbol of British rule in Ireland, before being transferred back to your ship.
Highlights:
- Admire the grandeur of St Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels
- Pour yourself a pint of Ireland’s finest at the Guinness Storehouse to discover the country’s most famous export
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by Mercedes E-class or similar for 1 and 2 passengers, VW Caravelle (7 passenger seats) or similar for 3 and 4 passengers and 12-seater or similar for 5 and 6 passengers.
- Expert local guide for 8 hours of sightseeing in Dublin
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
- Supplement for public holidays
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the "inclusions" list above
Dublin: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours
Dublin: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours
Disembark for a city adventure this morning accompanied by your expert guide and driver. Your tour of Dublin begins with the impressive Trinity College; Ireland's oldest university. Explore the Old Library, which houses 200,000 antiquarian texts and the oldest surviving harp in Ireland. Here you will see the world-famous Book of Kells; a fabulous example of early Irish manuscript illumination. Hand-crafted by monks, it contains the four gospels and has been resident at Trinity College since the 17th century. Continue to St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland, where you have the opportunity to see a memorial to Jonathan Swift, the author of 'Gulliver's Travels', who became Dean of St. Patrick's in 1713. Afterwards you are transferred back to port.
Highlights:
- See the world-famous Book of Kells, a fabulous example of early Irish manuscript illumination
- Continue to St Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and home of a memorial to the writer Jonathan Swift
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local driver-guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Dublin - Dublin City & Powerscourt - Full Day Tour
Dublin - Dublin City & Powerscourt - Full Day Tour
Upon arrival in Dublin Port, you will meet with your private driver/guide and transfer directly to Powerscourt House & Gardens in Co. Wicklow
This stunning 18th Century Stately home comprises 
extensive gardens, which are open to the public; as is the Main House. There is a lovely restaurant in the house, overlooking the gardens and Wicklow Mountains, which offers the finest in Irish artisan, home cooked cuisine. The 34,000 acres of this estate extend along both shores of the River Dargle . Powerscourt is one of the finest properties in Europe, designed and laid out by Daniel Robertson between 1745 and 1767. This property is filled with splendid Greek and Italian-inspired statuary, decorative ironwork, a petrified-moss grotto, lovely herbaceous borders, a Japanese garden, a circular pond and fountain with statues of winged horses, and an occasional herd of deer. Opportunity for shopping at Avoca Handweavers now located in Powerscourt House. Enjoy lunch here at Powerscourt or at a traditional Irish pub in the city centre.
Upon your return from Powerscourt Estate, your private driver guide will take you on your tour of Dublin City.
Whilst Dublin is a vibrant and bustling city, by European standards it is a small city with a population of just over 1 million people. Much of Dublin’s streetscapes are adorned with beautiful 18th century townhouses and a
number of city parks, such as St. Stephen’s Green and indeed Merrion Square. The highlights of any tour in Dublin may include a visit to Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse… and –if time permits –St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Following the city tour, your driver will return you to your ship.
Inclusions
- Private Driver Guide
- Entrance to Powerscourt House & Gardens
- Lunch
Vacation Details
* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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