Kilkenny: Guided City Boat Tour With Kilkenny Castle Views

Step aboard the Kilkenny: Guided City Boat Tour and discover the enchanting heart of Ireland’s medieval capital. This captivating river cruise transports you through time, revealing the city’s storied past and architectural gems. From the majestic Kilkenny Castle to the towering Gothic spires of St. Canice’s Cathedral, you’ll be immersed in a visual feast as knowledgeable guides share the compelling narratives that have shaped this vibrant destination. With stunning riverine vistas and ample opportunities for photography, the journey promises to be a truly memorable experience. But there’s more to uncover about this enchanting excursion, so read on to discover why it’s a must for any visit to Kilkenny.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Guided Tours In Kilkenny.

Key Points

• The 40-45 minute guided boat tour along the River Nore offers panoramic views of Kilkenny’s iconic landmarks, including Kilkenny Castle.
• Passengers can observe diverse river bird species and capture memorable moments with the city’s historic architecture as a backdrop.
• The tour provides historical insights into Kilkenny’s past, covering sites such as St. Canice’s Cathedral, the WW1 Memorial, and various historic bridges.
• Free for children under 1 year, the tour also offers discounted rates for groups larger than 12 with customization options available.
• With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 116 reviews, the boat tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Guided City Boat Tour in Kilkenny provides visitors with a 40-45 minute journey along the River Nore, departing from Canal Square. This activity allows you to explore the historic city from a unique perspective on the water.

Throughout the tour, you’ll see some of Kilkenny’s key landmarks, including Kilkenny Castle, the WW1 Memorial, St. Canice’s Cathedral, and several historic bridges.

The tour costs from €15 per person, and kids under 1 year old can join for free. Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is conducted in English by knowledgeable guides, and life jackets are provided as a safety requirement.

Itinerary Highlights

During the Guided City Boat Tour, visitors can expect to see several of Kilkenny’s most iconic landmarks. These include the impressive Kilkenny Castle, the WW1 Memorial, the magnificent St. Canice’s Cathedral, and the city’s distinctive Round Tower.

The tour also showcases Greens Bridge, Lady Desert Bridge, St. Johns Bridge, and the historic Ormonde Woollen Mill.

Passengers will learn about the local history and wildlife as they take in these unique views.

The guided tour offers an opportunity to capture stunning photographs from the water, providing a fresh perspective on Kilkenny’s architectural and natural beauty.

Meeting Point & Important Information

The meeting location for the Guided City Boat Tour is Canal Square in Kilkenny, where visitors should look for a large feather flag to identify the departure point.

Passengers must wear the life jackets provided, as this is a legal requirement, particularly for infants. Plus, a ticket is necessary for infants and those under 1 year old to participate in the tour.

The tour operator takes safety seriously, and all necessary precautions are in place to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point a few minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for a smooth boarding process.

Group Bookings

In Kilkenny, the Guided City Boat Tour is a popular activity for group travelers. For groups larger than 12, travelers can visit www.boattrips.ie to make arrangements for this tour. The website allows groups to easily coordinate their visit, ensuring a seamless experience.

Some key features for group bookings include:

• Discounted rates for larger parties

• Ability to request customized departure times

• Option to add on private commentary or specialized programming

• Assistance with logistics like meeting point and arrival coordination

With these group-friendly features, the Guided City Boat Tour in Kilkenny is an excellent choice for organizations, schools, or any party looking to explore the city’s historic waterways together.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Guided City Boat Tour in Kilkenny, with the activity earning an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 116 reviews. Travelers highlight the knowledgeable and engaging guides, with a 5/5 guide rating. The transportation experience also earns a stellar 4.9/5, while the overall value for money is rated 4.8/5. As one reviewer noted, "The boat tour provided unique views and fascinating insights into Kilkenny’s history and wildlife." Another gushed, "This was the highlight of our trip – don’t miss it!"

Rating	Score
Overall	4.9/5
Guide	5/5
Transportation	4.9/5
Value for Money	4.8/5
Reviewer Feedback	"Unique views and fascinating insights"

Guided City Boat Tour

A guided city boat tour on the River Nore offers visitors to Kilkenny a unique opportunity to experience the city’s rich history and natural beauty from a different vantage point. Gliding along the tranquil waters, passengers are treated to a panoramic view of Kilkenny’s iconic landmarks, including:

• The towering Kilkenny Castle, a medieval stronghold that dominates the skyline

• The ancient St. Canice’s Cathedral, with its striking Round Tower

• The WW1 Memorial, a poignant tribute to the city’s war heroes

• The picturesque Greens Bridge and Lady Desert Bridge, which span the river

These 40-45 minute tours provide a leisurely and educational way to explore Kilkenny, offering both historical insights and breathtaking scenery along the way.

Unique River Nore Views

Gliding along the River Nore, passengers on the guided boat tour are treated to a unique perspective of Kilkenny’s most iconic landmarks and natural scenery. From the comfort of the boat, visitors can admire Kilkenny Castle‘s striking silhouette and the grand architecture of St. Canice’s Cathedral.

As the tour progresses, they’ll also spot the historic WW1 Memorial, the majestic Kilkenny Round Tower, and the charming Greens Bridge and Lady Desert Bridge.

Along With the man-made attractions, the tour provides an opportunity to observe the river’s diverse wildlife, including various bird species.

This intimate river experience offers a refreshing alternative to traditional land-based sightseeing, allowing travelers to capture breathtaking photos and create lasting memories of their visit to Kilkenny.

Kilkenny’s Historic Sites

The guided city boat tour takes passengers on a journey through Kilkenny’s rich history, spotlighting the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Dominating the skyline is the imposing Kilkenny Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle that has stood guard over the River Nore for centuries.

Along the river, guests catch glimpses of:

• St. Canice’s Cathedral, a grand Gothic cathedral dating back to the 13th century

• Kilkenny’s iconic Round Tower, a well-preserved medieval structure

• The sturdy Greens Bridge and the graceful Lady Desert Bridge

• The historic Ormonde Woollen Mill, a testament to Kilkenny’s industrial past

This captivating tour offers a unique perspective on Kilkenny’s storied past, immersing visitors in the city’s enduring architectural gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Depart?

The tour departs from Canal Square in Kilkenny. According to the knowledge provided, the tour duration is 40-45 minutes, but the specific departure time is not stated.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the boat tour. However, alcohol is not permitted. The tour company encourages participants to enjoy the scenic views and history during the 40-45 minute journey.

Is There a Toilet on the Boat?

The boat tour does not have a toilet on board. However, restrooms are available at the departure point in Canal Square before the tour begins. Passengers are advised to use the facilities there if needed during the 40-45 minute duration of the tour.

Do You Offer Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the boat tour operator offers discounted tickets for students and seniors. Customers can save up to 10% off the regular price by presenting valid ID when purchasing their tickets. The discounted rates help make the tour more accessible to all visitors.

Can We Request a Specific Departure Time?

Yes, customers can request a specific departure time for the boat tour. The tour operator is generally able to accommodate requests, subject to availability. Simply inform them of your preferred departure time when booking to check if it can be arranged.

Recap

The Kilkenny Guided City Boat Tour offers a delightful way to explore the city’s rich history and stunning architecture.

Cruising along the River Nore, visitors can admire the majestic Kilkenny Castle, the gothic St. Canice’s Cathedral, and other iconic landmarks while learning about the city’s heritage from knowledgeable guides.

It’s a perfect blend of education and leisure, providing excellent opportunities for memorable photography.

You can check if your dates are available here: