Shannon Princess: A Barge Cruise Fit for Royalty

A Barge Lady favorite for foodies, families, or those looking to explore Europe from a unique perspective, the 10-passenger barge Shannon Princess is the perfect way to discover the beautiful Irish countryside while cruising on the River Shannon,  a waterway abundant with natural beauty, unspoiled landscapes, and vibrant folklore.

Husband-and-wife owners/operators Captain Ruairi Gibbons and Chef Olivia Power pair contemporary luxury with a welcoming atmosphere, rigorously selecting their crew for their “Irish hospitality”.  Culturally-rich excursions, creative “New Irish” cuisine, and premium onboard amenities offer an unforgettable experience for those embarking on their first barge cruise, vacationing with their extended family, or even travelers who have barged in France and are intrigued by another geographic region.

Sights and scenes of the Emerald Isle beckon lucky guests aboard the Shannon Princess! Daily activities and events encompass the ancient history and modern lifestyle of Ireland from an insider’s perspective, as Captain Ruairi serves as the Tour Guide, offering passengers his extensive personal connections and native insights.   Private tours of villages, antiquities, and attractions introduce guests to the authentic personalities of the Irish experience; a tour and tasting at the world’s oldest whiskey distillery provides direct access to the artisan producers of this world-famous boutique spirit; and lively lunches at small pubs encourage interaction with the local characters and culture.

Barge Lady Lori cruised in 2014 on the Shannon Princess, and said upon her return, “The warmth of the Irish people, the marvelous excursions, and the barge’s many comforts were superlative.  It was, however, the ‘New Irish’ cuisine which was perhaps the most delightful aspect to the barge, and as Olivia is considered one of the best Chefs in the industry, this came as no surprise!”

Foodies, epicureans, and gastronomes are in for a treat, as Chef Olivia’s culinary skills are at the forefront of the Shannon Princess lifestyle!  Trained at the prestigious Ballymaloe Cookery School in Cork, Olivia specializes in baking, with her seasonally-driven menus focusing on Ireland’s heritage recipes and iconic ingredients from a fresh approach.

Breakfast buffets start the day with Bailey’s-splashed oatmeal, complemented with fruits and cheese, while lunches present lighter fare such as bountiful salads and flavorful quiches.  Multi-course dinners include such gastronomic treats include delicately prepared organic salmon or freshly baked rosemary-and-sea salt focaccia. Decadent desserts, flavored coffees, and fine spirits deliciously round out the Shannon Princess’s gourmet delights.

With smartly appointed cabins, a large comfortable deck, and a roomy salon, the Shannon Princess is a fantastic choice for multi-generational families, groups of five couples, or those looking to meet other like-minded people.  Walking and cycling opportunities, while limited, include beautiful scenery and intriguing paths, and the backdrop of the gorgeous waterway and green landscapes encourages rest and relaxation.  The Barge Ladies are especially excited about the barge’s hot tub, so be sure to bring your bathing suits!

Check out our blog post featuring an exclusive recipe from Chef Olivia.