Cork Harbour Boat Cruise

Cork Harbour Boat Cruise

At the indicated time, we’ll meet at Custom House Quay in Cork City, where our boat will be waiting to welcome us aboard. Located at the mouth of the River Lee, Cork Harbour is the second-largest natural harbour in the world, after Sydney Harbour.

Our adventure begins on the Cailín Óir ferry, which offers 360-degree views from the top deck, ensuring we see Cork Harbour and beyond in all its glory. As we set sail, we’ll admire the natural harbour, dotted with iconic islands, colourful houses, and stunning vistas of Cork City.

Throughout the tour, we'll learn all about the rich history of Cork Harbour which has borne witness to some momentous historical events. Did you know that many thousands of Irish emigrants passed through it during the Great Famine? Or that the RMS Titanic dropped anchor here for the last time before sinking four days later?

As we sail up the River Lee and up through the Lough, we'll pass local villages including Passage West, Monkstown, and Ringaskiddy. Among the sights we'll see is Blackrock Castle, originally developed as a coastal defence fortification in the 16th century to protect the harbour from rebel pirates and other invaders. Despite being destroyed by fire twice, it now houses an observatory, visitor centre, and restaurant.

Next, we'll sail past Haulbowline Island, where we'll learn about the island’s long history as a military base since it was fortified in 1602. Initially a base for the British Army, it's now the headquarters for the Irish Naval Service. Fun fact: the island is the birthplace of the world’s first yacht club, the Royal Cork Yacht Club.

Our cruise will then take us past Fota Island, home to Ireland’s only wildlife park as well as the historical Fota House and Gardens, a luxury 5-star hotel, golf, and spa resort.

To top it all off, as we explore this magnificent area, we'll be able to soak in the spectacular scenery while enjoying hot drinks and snacks available for purchase from the boat's tuck shop and coffee dock—what more could you want?

Finally, after 2 hours of exploration, we'll return to Custom House Quay, where our tour will come to an end. Slán!