Luxury Shore Excursion From Waterford (Dunmore East)

Waterford’s luxury shore excursion promises a captivating 7-hour journey through medieval charm and iconic Irish sites. With roundtrip transportation, expert guides, and exclusive access, it’s an enticing option. However, one can’t help but wonder if the price tag of $140.04 per person is worth it. What exactly will visitors experience, and how does it compare to more budget-friendly alternatives? Digging deeper into the itinerary and inclusions could reveal whether this excursion lives up to its luxurious billing.

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Key Points

A 7-hour luxury shore excursion from Waterford (Dunmore East) to Kilkenny and the Waterford Crystal factory, priced at $140.04 per person.
Explore Kilkenny’s historic landmarks, including Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral, and shop for traditional arts and crafts.
Travel in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle with a maximum of 25 passengers, with pickup and drop-off at the cruise ship terminal.
Enjoy the services of professional, fun guides who provide on-board commentary, and a full refund if the ship is unable to dock.
Tour the Waterford Crystal factory and visit the Reginald’s Tower and Viking Triangle in Waterford.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The luxury shore excursion from Waterford (Dunmore East) offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Ireland’s medieval capital, Kilkenny, as well as a tour of the renowned Waterford Crystal factory.

Priced from $140.04 per person, the 7-hour excursion includes English-speaking guides, roundtrip transportation, and entrance fees to Kilkenny Castle and the Waterford Crystal factory.

Participants can explore Kilkenny’s historic landmarks, shop for traditional arts and crafts, and enjoy lunch at their own expense.

The tour provides a full refund if the ship is unable to dock for operational reasons, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Looking for more options in Kilkenny? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors can expect to see Kilkenny, the medieval capital of Ireland, on this shore excursion.

They’ll explore Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. The tour also includes a stop at the Kilkenny Design Center to browse traditional arts and crafts.

Lunch options are available, though not included in the price.

After Kilkenny, the tour returns to Waterford to see Reginald’s Tower and the Viking Triangle.

It ends with a tour of the Waterford Crystal factory, where guests can see the crystal-making process up close.

The excursion provides a comprehensive look at Ireland’s history and culture.

Transportation Details

This luxury shore excursion is operated by Elegant Irish Tours, a 5-star brand.

Travelers will travel in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle with a maximum of 25 passengers. Pick-up is from the cruise liner terminal in Dunmore East, departing 30 minutes after the first tender arrives dockside.

The tour provides a full refund if the ship can’t dock for operational reasons. This practical transportation ensures a smooth and reliable experience, catering to the needs of cruise passengers seeking a high-quality shore excursion from Waterford.

Inclusions

Professional fun guides lead this tour, providing on-board commentary to enhance the experience.

Professional fun guides enhance the experience with on-board commentary during this tour.

An air-conditioned coach transports guests, with pickup and drop-off at the cruise ship. Optional tips allow flexibility.

This comprehensive package covers Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny Design Center, and a tour of the Waterford Crystal factory.

While lunch isn’t included, the tour provides an opportunity to explore the medieval capital of Ireland and the Viking Triangle in Waterford.

The tour operates under a 5-star brand, ensuring a high-quality experience for a reasonable price.

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Booking Information

To book the Luxury Shore Excursion from Waterford, travelers can check availability to see the starting times.

The booking process involves:

Selecting the desired number of participants and the date of the tour.
Meeting at the designated pickup point, which is the cruise ship terminal.
Obtaining directions to the meeting point using the provided Google Maps link.

The tour operates with a maximum of 25 passengers and includes a full refund if the ship is unable to dock for operational reasons.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

There's plenty more to explore in Kilkenny

Kilkenny: The Medieval Capital

The medieval city of Kilkenny, Ireland’s ancient capital, offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s storied past.

Travelers will explore Kilkenny Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress that dominates the skyline. Inside, they’ll marvel at the exquisite state apartments and picturesque gardens.

Next, they’ll visit St. Canice’s Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century.

At the Kilkenny Design Center, visitors can browse an array of traditional Irish arts and crafts. This well-curated stop allows guests to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this medieval gem.

Exploring Kilkenny Castle

As visitors step through the grand entrance of Kilkenny Castle, they’re immediately struck by the imposing Norman architecture that has stood for over 800 years.

The castle’s three-story keep, constructed with limestone, towers over the surrounding grounds. Inside, visitors can explore the lavishly furnished rooms, including the grand banquet hall and opulent drawing rooms.

Three highlights of Kilkenny Castle include:

The Medieval Castle Rooms, which showcase the castle’s rich history and impressive interiors.
The Parklands, a 50-acre expanse of meticulously landscaped gardens and woodlands.
The Butler Art Gallery, which houses a collection of contemporary Irish art.

Waterford: The Viking Triangle

After exploring the grandeur of Kilkenny Castle, visitors retrace their steps back to the port city of Waterford to discover the Viking Triangle.

They’ll see Reginald’s Tower, a medieval fortification dating back to the 11th century.

Next, they’ll tour the Waterford Crystal factory, learning about the region’s famous glassmaking legacy.

The Viking Triangle encompasses museums, medieval landmarks, and the city’s waterfront, offering a glimpse into Waterford’s rich history.

With included entry fees and a professional guide, this shore excursion provides an efficient, rundown of the area’s top attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?

The tour does not explicitly mention accommodating dietary restrictions or allergies. Travelers should check with the tour operator to inquire about any special needs before booking, as the availability of lunch options is unclear from the provided information.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. The tour involves walking, so dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can the Tour Be Modified or Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to an extent, though options are limited. Guests should inquire about modifications when booking. The itinerary and transportation are generally set, but the provider may accommodate special requests if feasible.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Shore Excursion?

The website doesn’t mention any discounts or packages for this shore excursion. However, it’s possible there could be special offers or bundled deals available when booking directly with the tour operator. It’s best to inquire about any current promotions.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy if the Ship Is Unable to Dock?

If the cruise ship cannot dock for operational reasons, the tour operator offers a full refund. This policy provides flexibility and protection for travelers in case of unforeseen circumstances beyond their control.

The Sum Up

This luxury shore excursion from Waterford (Dunmore East) offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, providing roundtrip transportation, expert guides, and access to iconic attractions. The itinerary covers the medieval charm of Kilkenny and the historic Viking Triangle in Waterford. With a limited group size, it promises a comfortable and exclusive tour. However, travelers should note the full refund policy in case the ship cannot dock, and consider if the $140.04 per person price matches their expectations.