Wonders of the Celtic shores

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

This programme to the Connemara region will take you to some of Ireland’s most picturesque locations including lakes, fishing villages and vertiginous cliffs, to discover the area’s treasures, ranging from whiskey to Kylemore Abbey and the iconic Cliffs of Moher.

Day 1  - Dublin

Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight.

You will then be taken to the Davenport Hotel 4*. 

Day 2 - Dublin - County Galway (Connemara)

After enjoying breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and make your way to the hotel lobby to meet your knowledgeable local guide for a full day of exploration. 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Dublin's most iconic sights. Traverse the city streets, passing through the elegant Georgian squares of Merrion and Fitzwilliam, catching glimpses of landmarks like the National Gallery of Ireland, Government Buildings, and the serene oasis of St. Stephen’s Green. Continuing our journey, you'll glide past historic landmarks including Dublin Castle, City Hall, and the majestic Christchurch Cathedral on our way to the renowned St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Founded in 1190, this sacred site boasts a fascinating connection to Jonathan Swift, who served as its Dean from 1713 to 1745.

After lunch in a local restaurant in Dublin, you will travel west. 

Your route lead you through picturesque landscapes to the Kilbeggan Distillery. Established in 1757, this venerable distillery holds the distinction of being Ireland's oldest licensed distillery. Despite facing numerous challenges over the centuries, the resilient spirit of Kilbeggan endures, upheld by the unwavering support of the local community. 

Upon arrival, you will embark on an engaging tour of the distillery, gaining insights into its storied past and innovative present. Witness firsthand the harmonious blend of traditional whiskey-making techniques and modern craftsmanship. And of course, no visit would be complete without savoring a sampling of Kilbeggan's celebrated whiskey, a testament to its enduring legacy.

After this visit, you will get back on the road to reach your overnight accommodation, the luxurious Glenlo Abbey Hotel, an elegant establishment nestled within a vast green estate on the shores of Lough Corrib. 

Check into your room at the end of the day. Then, enjoy some free time to explore the estate or take part in a guided whiskey tasting (optional activity at extra cost). Enjoy an exclusive private whiskey tasting in the Oak Cellar Bar. Learn about the history of whiskey in Ireland and about the various types from around this world on this tutored tasting. Guests will compare Black Bush with two of Bushmills newly launched whiskeys from the causeway collection, Bushmills Vermouth and Bushmills Pomerol (or similar).

Dinner included and overnight stay at the hotel. 

Day 3 - Galway County (Connemara)

Following breakfast in your hotel, enjoy a morning at leisure or experience the secrets of falconry at Glenlo Abbey (optional activity at extra cost). This long-standing tradition can be experienced on the lush grounds of Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate. Come up close and personal with a variety of birds of prey within our 138 acre estate, while guided by one of Ireland's best Master Falconers. 

In the late morning, depart your hotel for Clifden, a coastal town located on the Owenglin River.

Enjoy a brief orientation tour of the town. Known as ‘the Capital of Connemara', Clifden has become one of Ireland's most sought-after holiday destinations. Visitors and local people mingle, giving the town a unique and enjoyable cosmopolitan flavour. Lunch will be served in a local establishment before you enjoy some free time to explore this beautiful town.

Then, depart for a scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. The rugged landscape of Connemara offers beautiful and contrasting scenery. Majestic mountains rise steeply from an earth of contrasting rock and boglands with many lakes and rivers. Artists from all around the world come to paint this landscape with its ever-changing light.

Then you will re-board your motor coach. Sit back and relax as you watch the ever changing landscape of this truly wondrous place on your return journey to your hotel.

Day 4 - County Galway (Connemara) / County Limerick

After breakfast in the hotel, you will check out and depart.

Travelling through Galway city enjoy a panoramic tour before stopping for lunch enroute to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural sites, a UNESCO Global Geopark, where the rock rises sheer from the ocean, creating a powerful and spectacular setting. 

A visit will be made to the Atlantic Edge visitors centre. Housed at the centre of the underground building a huge domed cave contains images, exhibits, displays & experiences that will delight young and old alike. A virtual reality cliff face adventure, The Ledge, will be shown in the audiovisual theatre allowing visitors to experience life at the cliff face both above and below sea level, meeting a cast of characters from among the native bird and sea life. 

Following your memorable visit to the cliffs, rejoin your motor coach and guide for your onward journey. You will make a stop in the charming seaside resort of Lahinch, known for its long beach of golden sand and its relaxed atmosphere. A former fishing village that now attracts surfers and golfers, Lahinch charms visitors with its natural setting and gentle pace.

Day 5 - County Limerick/ Dublin     

Embark on an unforgettable journey for the vibrant city of Limerick. As you traverse the picturesque landscapes, your expert guide will provide insightful commentary, offering a glimpse into the rich history and cultural tapestry of the region.

Upon our arrival in Limerick City immerse yourself in a brief yet captivating panoramic overview of this charming urban center. From historic landmarks to bustling streets, soak in the atmosphere and vibrant energy that defines Limerick. The tour continues with the must-see King John’s Castle. Led by passionate guides, you will explore this impressive medieval fortress, its ramparts and its historic rooms, while discovering stories of power struggles, military strategies and political manoeuvres that marked Irish history. 

Close to Galway, the Glenlo Abbey Estate 5* welcomes you in a typical rural setting of western Ireland in the heart of a golf course and bordering a lake. The hotel has two wings that gives the place two atmospheres, one historical Irish mansion style and the other more modern recently built but respecting the history of the establishment. The cosy and well-equipped rooms have all modern comforts. Falconry and Whiskey tasting are optional experiences with extra charge within the estate. The hotel has a bar, beautiful lounges and two restaurants, one of which is housed in old Orient Express cars. 

Located in one of Ireland’s most beautiful villages in Adare in County Limerick, the Dunraven Arms 4* Hotel is a chic country house. Its elegant interiors, beautiful gardens, peaceful atmosphere and attentive service make this establishment a must.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

·        1-night accommodation in Classic room at The Davenport 4*((local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        2-night accommodation in Classic room at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel 5*((local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        1-night accommodation in Luxury room at The Dunraven Arms Hotel 4*  (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        Meals as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).

·        Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.

·        The services of a local English-speaking guide. 

 Your programme does not include:

·        Lunch and Dinner on day 1.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Visa if necessary.

·        Tips for the driver and local guide 

·        Early check-in and late check-out. 

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme. 

·        Optional activities.    

Please note:

·        It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.

·        The weather can be unpredictable in Ireland, you can live 4 seasons in one day. The climate is mild and temperate with alternating rain, blue sky and sun. Provide clothing for all seasons and for visiting days: a good windbreaker and raincoat, comfortable walking shoes, a bag with waterproof protection for your personal belongings. 

·        Landscapes with breathtaking views can sometimes be masked by mist.

·        Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m. 

·        Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.

·        Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.

·        This tour is suitable for wheelchair users. The wheelchair must be foldable and the guest must have a companion travelling with them to assist with wheelchair.

·        Restrooms availble at all venues but no toilet facilities on board coach - emergency stop can be made if required

·        No dedicated shopping only stops but free time allocated during touring days.

·        We recommend flat comfortable shoes, suitable for walking in. Guests should bring layers due to changeable Irish weather

·        Most coaches have air conditioning however it is not guaranteed.

Contact of your hotels :

The Davenport
8-10 Merrion Street Lower,
Dublin, Ireland
Téléphone : +353-1-607-3500.

Glenlo Abbey Golf Club

Bushypark, Galway, H91 XD8K, Irlande

Téléphone : +353 91 519 600

The Dunraven Arms
Main St, Blackabbey, Adare V94 KV2P Irlande

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Day 1 - Dublin

Meet at Dublin Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

You will be transferred to your 4* hotel in the city centre.

Check-in at official hour.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

Optional activity (with extra fees): Diner and Irish Show.

This evening you will depart your hotel and travel out of the bustling city to the calm of the suburbs where you will enjoy a traditional Irish meal along with an unmissable experience of Irish song, music and dance. You will want to stomp your feet along with the rhythm of the dancers and clap your hands to the beat of the music. The enchanting evening includes a delicious four-course dinner followed by an Irish coffee. Then, your other senses will be delighted by a compelling performance of live traditional music, song and Irish dancing. All too soon, you will reboard on your motorcoach for return journey to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 2 - Dublin / Powerscourt Estate / Dublin

After breakfast, at the hotel, you will check out of your room and once luggage has been loaded onto the bus you will depart your hotel for your tour to the “Garden of Ireland”, County Wicklow.

Leaving the city of Dublin you will be traveling into the green and uncrowded Wicklow Mountains with their rounded summits and lush valleys.

The 14,000 acre Powerscourt Estate are nestled in the Wicklow Hills. It is a blend of formal gardens, sweeping terraces, statuary and ornamental lakes, together with secret hollows, rambling walks, walled gardens and over 200 variations of trees and shrubs. Open to the public for over 50 years, a major refurbishment was carried out in 1974, but tragically, a fire broke out in the early hours one night, leaving only the roofless shell of the main house. The walls of the main house dating back to the 16th century stood as a stark reminder of the fire until 1996 when the rebuilding process began and today this fine house now stands proudly against the backdrop of its exquisite gardens. Some free time is provided to explore one of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland, recently voted No.3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens by National Geographic.

You will have time here to explore these magnificent gardens, stop and enjoy some refreshments in the Terrace Café or spend time shopping in the iconic Avoca store located within the ground floor of the Powerscourt House. This shop is truly unique as it is incorporated across the ground floor rooms of the house and its magnificent setting lingers long after the visit.

After your visit here travel a short journey to the location of your lunch.

Following your lunch you will make the onward journey to your awaiting ship for embarkation.

Your hotel:

The Davenport 4* is located in the heart of Georgian Dublin, at a few minutes from Merrion Square and the National Gallery. In this elegant district you will find beautiful buildings, pleasant gardens and shopping streets. With 115 rooms, the hotel offers a cosy and modern cocoon in the city centre. There is a restaurant serving international and local cuisine and a cosy bar.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

·        1-night accommodation in Classic room at The Davenport  Hotel 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        Meals as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).

·        Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.

·        The services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Lunch and dinner on day 1.

·        The optional activity - Dinner and Irish show.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

·        Early check-in.

Please note:

·        It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.

·        The official check-in time at The Davenport Hotel is at 3 p.m.

·        The optionnal activity can be operated according to a minimum of 4 guests.

Contact of your hotel:

The Davenport
8-10 Merrion Street Lower,
Dublin, Ireland
Phone: +353-1-607-3500

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.

Dublin

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.

Departing from the pier and enjoy a short panoramic city tour.

On the road, visit Dublin Castle. The castle played an important role from the Middle Ages up until 1922 as it was the residence of representatives of the British monarchy. It has survived numerous rebellions during its history, such as the 1916 uprising, and is today the theatre of official ceremonies such as the investiture of the President of the Republic. It was here that the 1998 peace agreements with Northern Ireland were signed.

You will have lunch in a local restaurant.

After lunch, you will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.

Your programme includes:

·        Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.

·        Lunch with beverage package (beer or wine or soft drink + mineral water + coffee or tea).

·        Services of an English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

·        The castle may close with little to no notice due to State functions.

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.