From crumbling castles to towering sea cliffs, cruising to Ireland offers the perfect opportunity for multigenerational family members to bond at sea and have fun on land, while trying out something new on the Emerald Isle.
Parents who were earlier skeptical about taking their children on a cruise, fearing having a bored youngster on hand, are now preferring to sail with kids as most ship itineraries now give preference to welcoming young cruise passengers.
Moreover, more modern cruise lines are now laying an emphasis on offering newer shore excursions based on special-interest activities that are primarily family-focused and are meant to give the childern a good time.
Here are some fun onshore experiences that have been recently introduced that guarantee something for kids, parents and grandparents, and help create memories that will remain etched in mind, long after the family Irish cruise vacation is over.
No cruise to Ireland can be deemed complete without a visit to the UNESCO Global Geopark, the Cliffs of Moher, a short two hour drive from the city of Cork. Over a million people visit these towering rock faces each year and there is no reason why your family should not be one of them.
On this shore excursion you can witness the top natural attraction of Ireland which rises up to a height of 214 m and stretches for five miles.You will literally need to cling to the cliff sides as the strong Atlantic breeze here can blow you away,
There is no better way to go green and get the young ones up close to nature than at the St Stephen Green, in Dublin.This oasis in the middle of the city center features an ornamental lake and a number of picturesque hiking trails.
Introduce the kids to the largest enclosed recreational area in any European capital at Phoenix Park.The park is also home to the Dublin Zoo, so if you are looking for animal interaction with roaming deer and other exotic caged species during your Ireland cruise vacation, do not miss out on this extremely popular family attraction.
From the traditional bacon and cabbage to the hearty Irish stew, Irish cuisine served with a pint of Guinness is synonymous with comfort and satisfaction.Treat your young ones to cockles, a small saltwater clam which is found in abundance along the Irish coast and have become a local delicacy.
You will find Irish stew made from lamb, potato and onions in most of the pubs, just like the simple but beloved bacon and cabbage dish, often prepared in spicy mustard seeds and fresh parsley to balance the strong flavors.
The eight hours Wicklow Mountaineer Train trip begins from the Dublin Connoly station and offers magnificent views of Dublin city and the surrounding countryside and is regarded as the country’s most scenic rail journey.
Key attractions enroute include Ballykissangel, Upper Lake of Glendalough, Monastic City and continue through Wicklow’s breathtaking terrain before making the journey back to Dublin and to the cruise ship at the Dun Laoghaire cruise terminal.
This extraordinary shore excursion allows the family to gain a first-hand insight on Ireland’s rich history with a tour to Ardgillan Estate and Malahide Castle, two of the oldest and iconic castles of the country.
On this eight hour trip, explore the castles at your own pace and show the children the unique collection of Irish furniture and historical portraits dating back to the late Lord Talbot de Malahide, apart from enjoying the scenic beauty of the walled herb garden in Ardgillan Estate.
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