Shore Excursion From Cork: Including Blarney Castle and Kinsale

Cobh , Ireland

Shore Excursion From Cork: Including Blarney Castle and Kinsale

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About this experience

The tour begins with a pick up from the cruise liner terminal in Cobh, Cork Harbour, where your driver will be waiting for you to drive to Blarney Castle. Admission to the Blarney Castle and Gardens is included. Take a panoramic drive through Cork City, where your guide will point out the highlights of the southern capital. In the afternoon visit Kinsale and tour Cobh.

Available options

Shore Tour from Cork

A shore tour of Cork, visiting Blarney Castle, Kinsale and Cobh<br/>Pickup included

What's included

WiFi on board

Driver/guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Port pickup and drop-off

Live commentary on board

Blarney Castle and Gardens Entry Fee included

Back at port 1 hour before last boarding.

Detailed itinerary

We will collect you in style from your Cruise Ship. When you leave the Ship, turn to the right, and your guide will be waiting for you near the pedestrian exit gate. We collect passengers from the cruise ship at 07:30 for departure @ 08:00. Where your ship docks later than 07:30 the tour will begin 30 minutes after disembarkation commences. We like to get ahead of the crowd and avoid the queues in Blarney!

Stop 2

Our first stop of the day is Blarney. Visit the most famous Castle in all of Ireland!! Lie back and kiss the magical Blarney Stone and get the gift of the gab! Your admission is included saving you 15 euro. WE ARE HAPPY TO INCLUDE ADMISSION TO BLARNEY CASTLE: others will make you join a queue and pay at the gate! You will also have time to visit the world famous Blarney Woolen Mills. Famed as the largest Irish Store in the world, many take advantage of its tax free shopping offers on quality Irish products.

Stop 3 Pass by

We depart Blarney and take a panoramic drive through Cork City. We view the highlights of this fine City such as the River Lee, St Finbarre's Cathedral, Shandon Bells, English Market and Grand Parade. Cork was recently considered by the Lonely Planet one of the 10 must see cities in the world. Some of its famous sons include Henry Ford, Michael Collins and of course world famous footballer Roy Keane.

Stop 4

We drive through the beautiful Cork Countryside to the charming town of Kinsale! Enjoy typical views of the rolling fields of West Cork and also a stop overlooking picturesque Kinsale Harbor and its 2 forts - Charles Fort and James Fort. It was just off the Old Head of Kinsale that in 1915 the Lusitania sank with grave loss of life.

Stop 5

Our next stop is the historical town of Kinsale for, a town famed for the battle of Kinsale in 1601. Today it is Ireland's gourmet capital with winding streets, great pubs and fine restaurants. On our standard 8h tours we stop in Kinsale for lunch, however depending on the departure time of the ship this must be at the drivers discretion (NO EXCEPTION). The town is beautifully situated at the mouth of the harbor and is exceptionally colorful with picture post card buildings and many country Irish folk with strange and distinguished accents

Stop 6 Pass by

If time allows, we can explore Cobh Cathedral.

We depart Kinsale and to make sure you are back at least 1 hour before departure. The service ends back at the dockside after approximately 8 hours on tour. If the boat is leaving earlier we will amend the itinerary as necessary.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

334 reviews

5★

217

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.1

136 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Booster/Baby seats required, and available. Please advise if you require at booking.

Collapsible scooters and wheelchairs can be stored under coach. Responsibility for the passenger for the day.

Meeting point

Cobh (Cork) Cruise Ship Terminal - We collect passengers from the cruise ship at 07:30 for departure @ 08:00. If your ship docks later than 07:30, don't worry! The tour will begin 30 minutes after disembarkation commences.

Important notes

This shore excursion is operated by Irish cruise specialist, Paddywagon Tours. Your bus will likely be a green tour coach with "Paddywagon" written on the side in yellow. The tour representative will also have the lead passenger name(s) supplied above on their clipboard, so keep your eyes and ears out. Dockside can be busy during disembarkation. Thank you for your business. We wish you a great experience on shore.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

About Cobh

Cobh, a picturesque seaside town in South West Ireland, is known for its vibrant history, colorful architecture, and stunning views of Cork Harbour. This charming town was the final port of call for the ill-fated Titanic and is rich in maritime heritage, offering a unique blend of historical sites, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty.

Top Attractions

Cobh Heritage Centre

This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Cobh's rich history, including its role in the Irish Famine and as the last port of call for the Titanic. The exhibits are well-curated and offer a deep dive into the town's past.

Historical 1.5-2 hours €10-€12

St. Colman's Cathedral

This stunning cathedral is a prominent landmark in Cobh, known for its impressive Gothic Revival architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. It offers a peaceful retreat and panoramic views of the town and harbor.

Architectural/Religious 30-45 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Cobh Museum

Housed in a former Presbyterian church, this museum focuses on the maritime history of Cobh and its role in emigration. The exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that bring the town's history to life.

Historical 1-1.5 hours Free (donations welcome)

Spike Island

Spike Island, located in Cork Harbour, is a fascinating historical site that has served as a monastery, fortress, and prison. A visit to the island offers a unique glimpse into its tumultuous past through guided tours and interactive exhibits.

Historical/Adventure 2-3 hours €16-€18

Cobh Lifeboat Station

This station is home to the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) and offers a glimpse into the brave work of lifeboat crews. Visitors can learn about the history of the station and the lifesaving missions it has undertaken.

Historical/Cultural 30-45 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Seafood Chowder

A creamy, hearty soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and vegetables. It's a must-try for any visitor to Cobh.

Soup Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free upon request

Cobh Crab

Freshly caught crab, often served with a variety of sauces and sides. It's a local delicacy and a highlight of the town's seafood offerings.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Irish Stew

A traditional Irish dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions. It's a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for cooler weather.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free upon request

Popular Activities

Boat tours Hiking Cycling Beach walks Picnicking Spas and wellness Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town's attractions. The weather is generally pleasant, making it the most popular time to visit.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Irish (Gaeilge)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) in winter, GMT+1 (IST) in summer

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cobh is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing PIN numbers

Getting there

By air

Cork Airport • 20 km from Cobh

By train

Cobh Railway Station

By bus

Cobh Bus Stop (Centre Park Road)

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around Cobh and to nearby towns. The service is reliable and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cobh Town Centre Rushbrooke Cush

Day trips

Cork City

20 km • Half day to full day

Cork City is a vibrant and historic city with a rich cultural scene, offering a variety of attractions, shopping, and dining options.

Kinsale

30 km • Full day

Kinsale is a charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet dining, and rich maritime history.

Blarney Castle

40 km • Full day

Blarney Castle is a historic castle and gardens, famous for the Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Festivals

Cobh International Famine Commemoration • June (specific dates vary) Cobh Maritime Festival • June (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Cobh Heritage Centre early in the day to avoid crowds
Climb the tower of St. Colman's Cathedral for the best panoramic views of the town and harbor
Take a boat tour of Cork Harbour for a unique perspective on the region's maritime history
Explore the town's colorful streets and alleys for hidden gems and local shops
Try local seafood dishes, such as Cobh crab and seafood chowder, for an authentic culinary experience