2019 Ireland and Iceland Cruise - Cork, Ireland

Destinations/Ports Series: 2019 Ireland and Iceland Cruise

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Cork, Ireland was a last minute addition to our itinerary, and our day was spent journeying inland to the famous Blaney Castle. Our ship docked at the lovely port city of Cobh, but our tour took us inland. We did stop briefly in the city of Cork, but then headed about 15 minutes out of town.

The castle and surrounding gardens are really quite lovely, but quite frankly, the whole lining up to kiss the Blarney Stone was simply not for me. Probably my biggest issue is that I am claustrophobic. I don’t like being in an enclosed space blocked in by other people. The line to get to the Blarney stone started outside the castle, but take visitors through a winding in closed stair case. I knew that was not going to be a good activity for me, so instead I enjoyed walking around the extensive gardens and taking pictures while others in my party waited on line.

I did however enjoy the shopping in the Blarney Woolen Mills gift shop that was opened to take advantage of the flocks of tourist who visit Blarney castle. They had a variety of Irish produced wool and knit wear.

I think I might have just as much enjoyed spending the full day in Cobh, with its cute shops and history as a major 20th century Irish port. Cobh was the last port stop of the Titanic in Ireland before its fateful maiden voyage. They have memorabilia there including the White Star Line ticket office, and some of the local town people still dress up in Titanic era costumes for the tourists.

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Suzanne Klasen

Suzanne Klasen is the Owner / Travel Advisor of CruiseOne Suzanne Klasen. We have combined our love of cruising with computer skills to bring you a very informative and entertaining site that follows my cruising travels and thoughts. I hope that you will let me help plan your next vacation.