Showing posts with label Bike Tours. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bike Tours. Show all posts

Thursday, February 22, 2018

IRELAND - 2 cabins re-open on Shannon Princess

We are pleased to announce that TWO cabins are now available for 2018 aboard the Irish Hotel Barge SHANNON PRINCESS.

You have another chance for barging in Ireland this season as the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess has a couple of cancellations.

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess - Barge Cruises In Ireland

Shannon Princess currently has:
  • 1 cabin open for May 27-June 2, 2018
  • 1 cabin open for June 24-30, 2018

Price is $10,100/cabin for 2 people ($5050/person, double occupancy).

This price includes: Local transfers between Dublin and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 2hrs or 2hrs 30mins depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the on board Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of 5 crew and use of barge facilities, which include wireless internet access, spa-pool (hot tub) . Bicycles are available upon request at no extra charge.

These cabins will go quickly as Shannon Princess is otherwise completely booked up for 2018.

See our newly updated brochure for Shannon Princess: CLICK HERE


Have QUESTIONS or you'd like to BOOK? Contact Paradise Connections.


Ireland: River Shannon

The River Shannon and its lakes 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 legends and fables of Ireland are found everywhere and are well understood by the hospitable Irish people who will be happy to tell you more about the ancient culture. The history of Ireland has been varied and sometimes difficult, but the locals always find the time to chat and perhaps charm you a tale or two of folklore.

The Shannon Princess

The Shannon Princess has been thoughtfully designed throughout. The barge's inviting interior makes a charming floating living space – a perfect ‘Home away from Home’ for guests to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by Ruairi and Olivia’s love of antiquities, crafts, pottery and art with many works by established and local Irish artists.  On board the barge a friendly & relaxed mood has been created by carefully mixing casual informality with quality service.

The Shannon Princess provides accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as double or twins, each with ensuite facilities. This barge is owner-operated with a total of five professional crew in attendance.You will be charmed with excellent but friendly service, gorgeous food & wines, and share in a slice of local life and knowledge.

Cruise Highlights

During your cruise, there is a program of fascinating excursions that will you give you a true immersion into the heritage and traditions of this part of Ireland, such as a personal tour of a castle by its eccentric owner, a birds of prey display, visits to a whiskey distillery and hand-weaving workshop and, of course, the chance to sample a pint or two of the ‘black stuff’ – Guinness.
  • Tour the legendary 6th century Clonmacnoise ruins
  • Full day excursion to Portumna Castle and Galway
  • Traditional Guinness and oyster lunch
  • Visit the unusual haunted Leap Castle
  • Tour Birr Castle’s Gardens and Science Centre
  • Birds of prey demonstration at Adare Manor
  • Tour of the Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery with a private tasting
  • Visit a traditional Irish hand-weaving workshop
  • Hear traditional Irish music
  • Excellent walking and fishing opportunities


Have QUESTIONS or you'd like to BOOK? Contact Paradise Connections.






Don't miss out again... 
Book your 2018 Shannon Princess cruise NOW



Contact Paradise Connections to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 



Monday, January 29, 2018

Shannon Princess: Update on 2018 cabin bookings

Cabin Bookings available for Barge Shannon Princess in Ireland 
 
Sorry, these 3 cabins were quickly snatched up. Shannon Princess is again completely booked for 2018.

Book early for 2019 cruises.


As you may be aware from our post dated 25 January 2018,  the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess  is sold out for 2018 and has been fully booked for quite a few weeks.

However, they have received a few cabin cancellations and we thus have availability of one cabin each on the following three departure dates for 2018:


  • May 27 Booked
  • June 24 Booked
  • July 15 Booked

You can find more details in our previous post: Click Here




Don't miss out again... 
Book your 2019 Shannon Princess cruise NOW



Contact Paradise Connections to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 


Friday, January 05, 2018

Cabins have become available on Shannon Princess

Now's your chance.  The Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess has been fully booked for the 2018 season for several weeks. BUT... They have had a couple of cancellations that we hope you can take advantage of for your summer vacation.

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess - Barge Cruises In Ireland

Shannon Princess currently has:
  • 2 cabins open for June 10-16, 2018; and
  • 1 cabin open for June 24-30, 2018
Updated (29 January 2018): One cabin open for each week
  • May 27
  • June 24
  • July 15

Price is $10,100/cabin for 2 people ($5050/person, double occupancy).

This price includes: Local transfers between Dublin and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 2hrs or 2hrs 30mins depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the on board Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of 5 crew and use of barge facilities, which include wireless internet access, spa-pool . Bicycles are available upon request.

Ireland: River Shannon

The River Shannon and its lakes 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 legends and fables of Ireland are found everywhere and are well understood by the hospitable Irish people who will be happy to tell you more about the ancient culture. The history of Ireland has been varied and sometimes difficult, but the locals always find the time to chat and perhaps charm you a tale or two of folklore.

The Shannon Princess

The Shannon Princess has been thoughtfully designed throughout. The barge's inviting interior makes a charming floating living space – a perfect ‘Home away from Home’ for guests to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by Ruairi and Olivia’s love of antiquities, crafts, pottery and art with many works by established and local Irish artists.  On board the barge a friendly & relaxed mood has been created by carefully mixing casual informality with quality service.

The Shannon Princess provides accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as double or twins, each with ensuite facilities. This barge is owner-operated with a total of five professional crew in attendance.You will be charmed with excellent but friendly service, gorgeous food & wines, and share in a slice of local life and knowledge.

Cruise Highlights

During your cruise, there is a program of fascinating excursions that will you give you a true immersion into the heritage and traditions of this part of Ireland, such as a personal tour of a castle by its eccentric owner, a birds of prey display, visits to a whiskey distillery and hand-weaving workshop and, of course, the chance to sample a pint or two of the ‘black stuff’ – Guinness.
  • Tour the legendary 6th century Clonmacnoise ruins
  • Full day excursion to Portumna Castle and Galway
  • Traditional Guinness and oyster lunch
  • Visit the unusual haunted Leap Castle
  • Tour Birr Castle’s Gardens and Science Centre
  • Visit the Craggaunowen Re-Creation Project
  • Tour of the Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery with a private tasting
  • Visit a traditional Irish hand-weaving workshop
  • Hear traditional Irish music
  • Excellent walking and fishing opportunities
Contact Paradise Connections for current availability.



Don't miss out... 
Book your 2018 Shannon Princess cruise NOW



Contact Paradise Connections to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 




Friday, December 23, 2016

Irish Barge Shannon Princess: ONLY ONE WEEK OPEN

Attention: the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess only has ONE week open for the 2017 barging season.

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess - Barge Cruises In Ireland


Laethanta Saoire Sona !


Current availability:
  • Aug 20-26, 2017: Cabin cruise week: 
    • 2 cabins booked
    • 2 cabins optioned (but not yet booked)
    • 1 cabin OPEN

THE RIVER SHANNON

The Shannon Princess cruises through a countryside little changed through the centuries. Come aboard and join the Shannon Princess cruising on the River Shannon – an incredible journey through the heart of hidden Ireland. The River Shannon  (named after the Celtic goddess  ‘Sionna’) is a series of lakes, rivers and tiny canals, which at almost 200 miles in length, is Ireland’s longest river. For over ten thousand years, the river was vital to the survival  of the prehistoric people living along its banks. After Christianity, it became the refuge of saints & scholars.Today the River Shannon remains unspoiled and has retained its great natural beauty and enjoys a richness in wild flowers, bird and animal life.

Cruise the Shannon between Athlone and Killaloe

As barge guests cruising on the River Shannon, aboard the Shannon Princess, you are “up close and personal” with the sights. Each day you will pass crumbling ivy-covered ruins, medieval garrisons and shoreline villages. Moor right at Clonmacnoise, a monastery established in the 6th century which survived for 1000 years. Your route takes you through dappled woodlands and floodplain meadows. The barge also calls at historic towns such as Athlone and Killaloe – today a pretty riverside village, but once home to the court of the last High Kings of Ireland. Observe wildlife – rare white tailed eagles nesting in waterside trees, go fishing, or even swim from the barge.There is always time for early morning strolls through twisting country lanes – or to explore the villages and roads by bicycles. Be as active as you wish!  Everywhere, the friendly Irish people will welcome you as honoured guests.

THE SHANNON PRINCESS

The Shannon Princess has been thoughtfully designed throughout. The barge’s inviting interior makes a charming floating living space – a perfect ‘Home away from Home’ for guests to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by Ruairi and Olivia’s love of antiquities, crafts, pottery and art with many works by established and local Irish artists.  On board the barge a friendly & relaxed mood has been created by carefully mixing casual informality with quality service.

Shannon Princess can be booked on an individual cabin basis or as a whole-boat, private charter. The barge provides accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins with a professional Crew in attendance.You will be charmed with excellent but friendly service, gorgeous food & wines, and share in a slice of local life and knowledge.

MEALS ARE ALSO AN IMPORTANT PART OF BARGING

Shannon Princess is very proud of their reputation for fantastic food and attentive service. With an emphasis on delicious modern cuisine, their foods and menus are prepared by sourcing fresh, free range and organic produces. Each day the menus are designed around the finest and freshest ingredients gathered at farm shops and country markets along the River Shannon and of course from the sea. You will be surprised and seduced by Ireland’s abundant natural ingredients.

On Shannon Princess you will enjoy scrumptious breakfasts, mouth watering lunches and elegant dinners prepared daily on board in the barge’s galley by the professionally trained chef.

Menus also offer a low fat, healthy eating option. Shannon Princess is always happy to attend to any special dietary requirements or preferences you may have; just let us know at the time of booking and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.



Don't miss out... 
Book your 2017 Irish barge cruise NOW



Contact Paradise Connections to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 


Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess almost full...

Attention: the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess is almost completely full for the 2017 barging season.

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess - Barge Cruises In Ireland

Current availability:
  • July 17-22: Only week open for a private charter (all 5 cabins open)
  • July 30-Aug 5: Cabin week: 3 cabins open
  • Aug 20-26: Cabin week: 4 cabins open
  • Sept 24-30: Cabin week: 1 cabin open

THE RIVER SHANNON

The Shannon Princess cruises through a countryside little changed through the centuries. Come aboard and join the Shannon Princess cruising on the River Shannon – an incredible journey through the heart of hidden Ireland. The River Shannon  (named after the Celtic goddess  ‘Sionna’) is a series of lakes, rivers and tiny canals, which at almost 200 miles in length, is Ireland’s longest river. For over ten thousand years, the river was vital to the survival  of the prehistoric people living along its banks. After Christianity, it became the refuge of saints & scholars.Today the River Shannon remains unspoiled and has retained its great natural beauty and enjoys a richness in wild flowers, bird and animal life.

Cruise the Shannon between Athlone and Killaloe

As barge guests cruising on the River Shannon, aboard the Shannon Princess, you are “up close and personal” with the sights. Each day you will pass crumbling ivy-covered ruins, medieval garrisons and shoreline villages. Moor right at Clonmacnoise, a monastery established in the 6th century which survived for 1000 years. Your route takes you through dappled woodlands and floodplain meadows. The barge also calls at historic towns such as Athlone and Killaloe – today a pretty riverside village, but once home to the court of the last High Kings of Ireland. Observe wildlife – rare white tailed eagles nesting in waterside trees, go fishing, or even swim from the barge.There is always time for early morning strolls through twisting country lanes – or to explore the villages and roads by bicycles. Be as active as you wish!  Everywhere, the friendly Irish people will welcome you as honoured guests.

THE SHANNON PRINCESS

The Shannon Princess has been thoughtfully designed throughout. The barge’s inviting interior makes a charming floating living space – a perfect ‘Home away from Home’ for guests to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by Ruairi and Olivia’s love of antiquities, crafts, pottery and art with many works by established and local Irish artists.  On board the barge a friendly & relaxed mood has been created by carefully mixing casual informality with quality service.

Shannon Princess can be booked on an individual cabin basis or as a whole-boat, private charter. The barge provides accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins with a professional Crew in attendance.You will be charmed with excellent but friendly service, gorgeous food & wines, and share in a slice of local life and knowledge.

MEALS ARE ALSO AN IMPORTANT PART OF BARGING

Shannon Princess is very proud of their reputation for fantastic food and attentive service. With an emphasis on delicious modern cuisine, their foods and menus are prepared by sourcing fresh, free range and organic produces. Each day the menus are designed around the finest and freshest ingredients gathered at farm shops and country markets along the River Shannon and of course from the sea. You will be surprised and seduced by Ireland’s abundant natural ingredients.

On Shannon Princess you will enjoy scrumptious breakfasts, mouth watering lunches and elegant dinners prepared daily on board in the barge’s galley by the professionally trained chef.

Menus also offer a low fat, healthy eating option. Shannon Princess is always happy to attend to any special dietary requirements or preferences you may have; just let us know at the time of booking and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.



There are only a few spots left... 
Book your 2017 Irish barge cruise NOW



Contact Paradise Connections to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 


Sunday, January 11, 2015

Enjoy cycling on your barge cruise with "Biking Plus"

Many of our barge enthusiasts enjoy taking some exercise in the form of cycling during their hotel barge cruise, so each vessel carries bicycles for everyone on board to use. On most cruises the crew can offload the bikes almost anytime for you to take a gentle pedal along the canal's towpath, or perhaps to the next village or lock.


Barging and Biking... a Perfect Combination


The "Biking Plus" Option

The more adventurous of you might be interested in "Biking Plus" which is offered by most of our barges at no extra charge.

While other members of your group are relaxing on deck or enjoying a stroll, most days you can take a bike and follow an interesting, but not too challenging route that has been carefully researched.


You will be given clearly marked maps for each round trip route and a backpack with everything you might need so you can explore the surrounding countryside and villages for an hour or two along the lanes, towpaths and byways. You can rejoin the barge where you left her or maybe catch up a little further along the canal. If you get lost or have a problem there's no need to worry as they will send a crew member to come and fetch you.

Your hotel barge's itinerary is arranged so that you won't miss any of the organized excursions or much of the cruising, but you will have seen a little more of the people and places around you. This is also a wonderful way to work off some of the calories from your fabulous meals :)

Fancy a tandem bike? Inquire and we'll see if one can be reserved.



Go Barging & Get Biking!


Contact Paradise Connections to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com
 



Saturday, February 15, 2014

Barging and Biking Video - Cycling along the European Waterways

All of our of barges have bicycles aboard for their guests to use. You can ride alongside the canal on the tow path or venture into towns along the way for a visit and meet up with the barge farther down the canal. The crew can also advise routes suited for your interests and ability.


Some barges also offer cycling-themed cruises where you will have an upgrade in bicycles and a professional guide. This is only offered for private charters and have a supplement to cover additional expenses.

Looking forward to your inquiries



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging vacation
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com
 

Monday, January 27, 2014

French Hotel Barge Nymphea: Loire Barging Cruises

We are pleased to announce that the French Hotel Barge Nymphea will be resuming barging cruises on the River Cher in the Loire Valley France for 2014.

French Hotel Barge Nymphea - Cruising the Loire Valley - Barging in France

Last year Nymphea had to suspend operations due to the need for emergency repairs to be carried out on lock weirs/barrages on the River Cher... but she's BACK!

It is possible to book Nymphea by the cabin and share the barge with other like-minded passengers or you may choose to have a private charter for up to 6 people. For private charters you have the option of the standard Loire cruise or several themed itineraries: cycling/bike tour, golf, family, romantic getaway for two/honeymoon cruise.

French Hotel Barge Nymphea River Cher Loire Valley barging cruises
The Valley of the Kings is as rich in history and legend as it is in beauty, and over the centuries little has changed. The River Loire and its main tributary the River Cher have transported passengers and cargo for more than 2000 years.

The proximity of such a wealth of gorgeous Renaissance architecture makes a cruise along this waterway a unique travel experience.

There is much to discover in the Loire Valley, from the fabulous châteaux to the centuries-old villages dotted along the river. Wind your way through the narrow streets perhaps discovering hidden shops with hand-painted pottery or stumble across an open market. Visit a winemaker and taste their range of Touraine wines or meet a cheese producer and learn why his goat cheese is the most famous in France.

 Barging in France - Cruising the River Cher in the Loire Valley aboard the Barge Nymphea

Nymphea has three comfortable cabins, two twin staterooms and one twin or double stateroom, all with air conditioning and en-suite facilities. Six bikes are always available for you to enjoy rides along towpaths and trails. Her crew of Captain and Chef/Housekeeper are most knowledgeable about the history in this beautiful area and are excellent hosts for your luxury cruise

Looking forward to your inquries


Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book NYMPHEA 
View Nymphea's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 



Go Barging in France

Thursday, January 10, 2013

VIDEO for Hotel Barge Scottish Highlander

We have a new video for the Scottish Hotel Barge SCOTTISH HIGHLANDER.

 
Hotel Barge Scottish Highlander - Barging in Scotland - Caledonian Canal, Loch Ness, Highlands

When most people think about barging it is about a barge cruise along the French canals. France is fantastic, of course, but we want to let you know that you can also experience barging in SCOTLAND all year round!

Click image to enlarge
The highlands of Scotland hold the very essence of this awe inspiring country. Cruise along the Great Glen from Inverness towards Fort William, through lochs, along rivers and the scenic and absorbing Caledonian Canal.

Ancient castles leading to the water's edge, heather-clad hillsides and arguably the finest inland cruising scenery in the world.

Anchor below castles and explore the Glens, Munroes and Bens of this spectacular land.

The legends of the past, the taste of single malt and the mythical inhabitant of Loch Ness all contribute to a special magic only experienced in Scotland's dramatic Highlands.



The hotel barge Scottish Highlander has the atmosphere of a Scottish country house with subtle use of tartan furnishings and landscape paintings. At 117 feet, Scottish Highlander is spacious and has every comfort for year-round cruising. Scottish Highlander accommodates up to eight guests in staterooms that can either be configured for doubles or singles, each with ensuite bathrooms.

Hotel Barge Scottish Highlander Moored Below Urquhart Castle

The experienced crew of four, led by your captain, ensure attention to your every need. Cuisine is traditional Scottish fare, salmon, game, venison and seafood, prepared by your own master chef.

Some of the Single Malt Whiskies served aboard:

  • Ben Nevis 10-year old
  • Lagavulin
  • Glenfiddich 12-year old
  • Dalwhinnie
  • Glenmorangie
  • Glen Moray
  • Bowmore18-year old
  • Isle of Jura 18-year old
  • Auchentoshan 12-year old

Besides the Standard Classic Cruise itinerary, Scottish Highlander also offers themed cruises:
Scottish Highlander will also tailor your charter towards your specific interests such as hiking, or a whisky distillery cruise...

A cruise aboard Scottish Highlander along the Great Glen as you admire some of Scotland's finest scenery will be unforgettable.


Say "Hello" to Nessie for us :)



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SCOTTISH HIGHLANDER 
View Scottish Highlander's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com