Cork , Ireland

Kinsale Cruise, Kinsale ( 50 minutes)

Active

(43 reviews)

50m

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience Kinsale like never before with our one-of-a-kind boat tour! This adventure combines rich culture, fascinating insights, relaxation, and breath-taking views that you won't want to miss. With its remarkable historic sites, Kinsale offers a unique vantage point from the water, allowing you to truly appreciate the beauty and significance of the area. The engaging commentary shares captivating stories and legends, enriching your understanding of how this charming town has evolved through the centuries.

Available options

Kinsale Cruise, Kinsale ( 50 minutes)

What's included

Upper Outdoor Seating

Indoor Heated Lounge

50 minute Kinsale Cruise

Toilet Facilities

Bar / Café Facilities

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

As we set off from the quay, keep an eye out for the lively yacht marina and admire the picturesque former fishing village of Scilly. The boat glides close to the shore, offering fantastic opportunities to spot seals, otters, herons, cormorants, terns, and a host of vibrant flora and fauna.

Stop 2 Pass by

Get ready for awe-inspiring views of Charles Fort, which dates back to the late 1600s and was built to enhance the harbour's defences. Picture the incredible effort involved in constructing this fort, stone by stone, long before modern machinery came into play. Once home to a garrison until 1920, Charles Fort is now an OPW heritage site, complete with daily guided tours. Experiencing its grandeur from the water adds a whole new layer to its rich history!

Stop 3 Pass by

As we journey on, you'll catch panoramic views of The Old Head of Kinsale before we navigate towards the mouth of the harbour

Across from us stands James Fort, built in 1603 following the Battle of Kinsale to safeguard against invasions. The sight of these two forts facing each other serves as a vivid reminder of the town's storied past.

Stop 5 Pass by

We'll also glide by Dock beach before making our way towards the historic Ringrone Castle, which has roots dating back to the 13th century. Once a stronghold of the Anglo-Norman De Courcey family, this castle has a lineage that stretches back centuries. Did you know the present Lord Kingsale is the 36th Baron, residing all the way in New Zealand?

Before we wrap up our tour, we’ll enjoy a peaceful cruise up the Bandon River, passing three marinas: a private marina, a fisherman’s marina, and the yacht marina. Picture the charming scene of diverse boats and yachts gently bobbing in the water, with the stunning town of Kinsale as a backdrop. This journey is truly one of the best values you'll find in Kinsale!

What's not included

Refreshments & Snacks ( can be purchased onboard)

Parking ( Car Park & On-street options available)

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Boarding begins 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Passengers should arrive at least 15 minutes before the departure time to ensure smooth check-in and boarding.

Please be advised due to the limited nature of Viator's pricing schedules and the inability to allow individual pricing and group pricing in one product, we are unable to offer discounted group pricing and student ticket options on this platform.

Meeting point

Our departure point for the Harbour Cruise can be found 300 meters along the quay near Actons Hotel. It's a short walk from Kinsale Tourist Office along the quayside.

Eircode: P17 HN81

About Cork

Cork is a vibrant city in southwestern Ireland known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Nestled between rolling hills and a stunning coastline, it offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

English Market

A historic covered market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It's a great place to sample Cork's culinary delights.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary for purchases

Blarney Castle

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Historical 2-3 hours €20-€25

Cork City Gaol

A former prison that offers a fascinating insight into the lives of inmates and the history of Cork.

Historical 1-2 hours €8-€10

Fitzgerald Park

A beautiful public park with walking paths, a lake, and the Cork Public Museum. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral with intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free entry, donations welcome

Must-Try Local Dishes

Coddle

A hearty dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a flavorful broth.

Dinner Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, often served with breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork and blood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cork Sausage

A spiced sausage made with pork, often served with bread or in a sandwich.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns, served with crusty bread.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free upon request.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gougane Barra Forest Park Cycling around Fota Island Kayaking in Kinsale Harbour Picnicking in Fitzgerald Park Strolling through the English Market Enjoying a spa day at a local resort Visiting Cork City Gaol Exploring St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, longer days, and various festivals. Expect lively streets, outdoor events, and vibrant nightlife.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (IST: GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cork is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and agree on a price beforehand

Getting there

By air

Cork Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Cork Kent Station

By bus

Cork Bus Station (Parnell Place)

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Cork, with frequent services covering the city and suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Shandon The Lough Ballincollig

Day trips

Kinsale

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet restaurants, and historical sites.

Blarney Castle and Gardens

8 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Cobh

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A picturesque seaside town with a rich maritime history, known as the departure point for the Titanic.

Festivals

Cork Jazz Festival • October Cork International Choral Festival • May Cork Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the English Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience
Kiss the Blarney Stone early in the day to avoid long queues and enjoy the castle and gardens with fewer crowds
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Butter Museum and the Shandon Bells, for a unique and authentic experience
Try local specialties like coddle, black pudding, and brown bread ice cream for a taste of Cork's culinary delights
Attend a traditional music session in a local pub to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene and friendly atmosphere