Dublin Pre-Voyage Extension

Extraordinary experiences in a beautiful land with rich history 

Trace Irish history from the medieval era to modern times in Dublin, encountering ancient sites like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle, and tapping into the city’s vibrant literary and culinary traditions. Then venture to County Wicklow to take in classic Irish scenes of rolling, sheep-dotted countryside, and visit the well-preserved 6th-century monastic ruins of Glendalough and the beautiful Palladian mansion, Russborough House.

Day 1 - Dublin, Ireland

Arrive in Dublin and transfer to the Westbury Hotel (or similar). Today our introduction to Dublin begins with a visit the city’s Henrietta Street Tenement Museum, which exhibits aspects of life in Dublin over the past 300 years, as told through the stories of the people who lived in the Georgian-era building. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening. (D)

Day 2 - Dublin

After breakfast, join a local guide to explore Dublin’s most popular attractions, beginning with Kilmainham Gaol, a prison that played a key role in Ireland’s struggle for independence. Detainees in this historic gaol included leaders of several rebellions, as well as members of the Irish republican movement during the War of Independence and Civil War. Return to the city center to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where Gulliver’s Travels author Jonathan Swift served as dean from 1713 to 1745. After lunch, sip whiskey during a tour of a 12th-century church that has been converted into a distillery. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening. (B,L)

Day 3 - County Wicklow / Embark

Set out on a full-day tour of County Wicklow, a landscape of rounded mountains and lush valleys. At the 6th-century monastic site of Glendalough, see well-preserved ruins, including early churches, a roofless cathedral, and a round tower dating back to the 10th century. Then enjoy a special audio-visual presentation highlighting the history of monasticism in Ireland. This afternoon we’ll discover Russborough House, widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most beautiful houses. Explore the lavish interiors, furnished with fine tapestries, porcelain, silver, and much of the Beit collection of paintings. Then amble through the walled gardens and incredible hedge maze. This afternoon we embark our ship. (B,L)

Costs & What's Included

Occupancy

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy

Cost Includes:

Accommodations as shown in the itinerary, or similar; meals as shown in the itinerary; local guides on all excursions; tips to local guides, to porters, and to waiters for included meals.