The classic traditions of Irish cuisine are a true highlight of your cruise. In addition to the bounty of fresh fish, Ireland offers famous hams and traditionally cured bacon, tender cuts of healthy Irish beef, heather-fed lamb chops, smoked salmon (some say the world’s best), Irish farmhouse cheeses, and wonderful breads.
THE CHEFS
As well as procuring from markets and local suppliers, our chefs may use herbs grown in onboard window-boxes. Sometimes they even bargain with lock-keepers along the way for fruit and vegetables freshly-picked that day. Before every gourmet meal, to whet the appetite your chef will come to the table to describe personally the menu he or she has prepared.
And if you are a real ‘foodie’, the chef will be happy to give you a demonstration and offer some useful tips, perhaps on how to make the silkiest of sauces, or produce the perfect soufflé. Our chefs are also very happy to accommodate requests for vegetarian or other special diets, which should be made at the time of reservation.
THE CHEESES
During your cruise, you will have the opportunity to sample many different cheeses, each with a rich local heritage. Again, your host will take the time to describe every cheese’s individual qualities – such as Cashel Blue Farmhouse. Whether you are a gourmet, wine enthusiast, or cheese lover – or maybe all three! – We are passionate about ensuring the gastronomy on board every hotel barge gives a true insight into the very best a region has to offer.
SHANNON PRINCESS
The River Shannon and its loughs represent Ireland at its finest and your cruise aboard Shannon Princess features a landscape of rolling green fields, ancient Celtic landmarks and an abundance of wildlife. The renowned legends and fables of Ireland are well understood by the hospitable Irish people, who will be happy to tell you more about Ireland’s eclectic history, folklore and ancient traditions. Marvel at their astounding hospitality as you immerse yourself in haunted ancient castles, 6th century ruins, and of course, a pint or two of the ‘black stuff’ – Guinness.
Shannon Princess is the largest hotel barge cruising the River Shannon and its picturesque,
intertwining loughs. Her thoughtfully-designed interior includes a comfortable saloon and dining
area with panoramic windows. The five junior twin/double staterooms, also with picture windows,
are stylishly furnished and each is air-conditioned and accompanied by a modern en-suite shower room.
The large rooftop sundeck is certainly the place to relax and watch the countryside glide by, as well as the inviting dining area with circular table to savour that gourmet al fresco meal on warmer days. Revel in the Irish way of life in an enthralling voyage aboard the Shannon Princess, through the heart of an astounding country.
WHAT IS HOTEL BARGING?
Despite the growing popularity of cruising, especially on large river vessels, hotel barging is still a little known niche concept. Most hotel barges started life as cargo vessels but have since been painstakingly converted to offer luxury boutique accommodation for small groups of up to 20 passengers.
This is cruising, but in a very different style to ships plying the big rivers or oceans. The pace is slow, with a 6 day cruise covering maybe just 50 miles along a rural canal. Passengers can walk or bike the towpaths as their floating hotel glides gently along. Guests enjoy an intimate atmosphere, high levels of personal service and immersion into the culture, history and gastronomy of regions of Europe such as Burgundy, the Midi, or the Italian Veneto.
Every day there is an excursion, perhaps to a chateau, a vineyard for a wine tasting, or some other ‘off the beaten track’ location. About half of European Waterways’ bookings are for whole boat charters, ideal for families. Otherwise, clients book a cabin to join other like-minded people. A ‘slow boat’ European Waterways barge cruise offers the ultimate in experiential travel. A truly unique experience!
European Waterways offer luxury hotel barge cruises on the beautiful canals and rivers of Europe, such as through Burgundy, the Midi, Alsace, the Po Valley, Holland and the Scottish Highlands.
The exclusive collection of hotel barges accommodate up to 20 passengers who may charter a whole barge with family or friends, or join a small group of like-minded travellers on an individual cabin basis.
Each barge is fully crewed with a Captain, chef, hostesses, deck-hand and tour guide. The 6-night cruises include gourmet meals, fine wines, open bar, excursions and the use of facilities such as bicycles and spa pools.