Private tour of Cobh, Blarney Castle,Jameson distillery.

Explore Ireland in Comfort and Style with a Private 7-Hour Tour

This private tour of Cobh, Blarney Castle, and Jameson Distillery offers a personalized way to experience some of Ireland’s most iconic sights. Priced at $712.39 per group of up to 4 people, this 7-hour adventure combines cultural landmarks, historic castles, and world-famous distilleries. The tour begins at the Queenstown Story @ Cobh Heritage Centre and includes pickup services and an air-conditioned vehicle for maximum comfort.

Designed for those seeking a flexible and engaging day trip, this tour is led by Maurice Kenneally, a guide praised for professionalism and extensive knowledge. While admission to Blarney Castle costs €23 per person, the tour itself does not include entry fees, allowing travelers to choose whether to climb the castle and kiss the famous stone. This tour is ideal for visitors who appreciate a private, relaxed pace combined with insightful commentary.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to 4 people
• Duration of approximately 7 hours with flexible timing
• Visits include Blarney Castle, Midleton Distillery, and Cobh
• Guide Maurice Kenneally is highly knowledgeable and professional
• Admission fees not included, with Blarney Castle costing €23
• Pickup and air-conditioned transportation provided for convenience

Starting Point at Cobh Heritage Centre and Pickup Service

This private tour begins at the Queenstown Story @ Cobh Heritage Centre, located at Deepwater Quay in Cobh. The meeting point is easy to access, with pickup offered from your accommodation or other preferred locations in the area. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride throughout the day, and the private nature of the tour means your group enjoys a tailored experience without the rush of larger groups. Maurice Kenneally, the tour guide, is known for arriving promptly and well-prepared, making the start seamless.

Walking Through the Enchanting Gardens of Blarney Castle

One of the main stops is Blarney Castle & Gardens, where visitors can walk through meticulously maintained gardens. The castle itself is medieval and offers a chance to view the fortress from the outside. For those feeling adventurous, the climb to the top allows you to kiss the Blarney Stone, a tradition believed to grant eloquence.

This stop lasts around 2 hours, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed, although admission tickets are not included. The €23 per person fee applies if you decide to go inside. The fabulous gardens provide plenty of photo opportunities and quiet spots to enjoy Ireland’s natural beauty.

Discover the World-Renowned Midleton Distillery

Next, the tour takes you to the Midleton Distillery, the birthplace of famous Irish whiskeys such as Jameson, Redbreast, Powers, and Midleton Very Rare. Here, visitors can enjoy a guided tour that reveals the production process of Ireland’s iconic spirits.

While the distillery tour lasts approximately 2 hours, entry is not included in the tour price, so you may choose to just enjoy a drink at your own expense if preferred. The distillery’s reputation for world-class whiskey makes this stop a highlight for many, combining history, craftsmanship, and tasting opportunities.

Exploring Cobh and the Titanic Connection

The final stop in the tour is Cobh, a charming seaside town with a rich maritime history. Visitors can view St. Colman’s Cathedral, an impressive structure situated on a hill with panoramic views of the harbor.

Plus, the Titanic Experience offers a guided tour recounting the story of 123 passengers who boarded the ill-fated ship from Cobh. This museum provides insights into Ireland’s emigration history and the Titanic’s final port of call. The time allocated for this stop is around 2 hours, enabling a meaningful visit without feeling hurried.

The admission to the Titanic Experience is free, and the town’s quaint streets and harbor views make it a pleasant place to wind down after a busy day.

Flexibility and Personalization in a Private Vehicle

A significant advantage of this private tour is the flexibility it offers. Being in a private vehicle allows your group to spend more or less time at each stop, depending on interests. The guide Maurice is known for accommodating preferences and making adjustments for a comfortable, personalized experience.

On top of that, the moderate physical fitness level required makes this tour accessible to most guests, though some walking is involved at sites like Blarney Castle and the Titanic Experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations are typically made 137 days in advance, reflecting strong interest and demand. The tour offers a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing reassurance for planning.

Since good weather is needed for the best experience, poor weather may lead to rescheduling or a full refund, ensuring your trip remains flexible and stress-free.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private tour of Cobh, Blarney Castle, and Jameson Distillery appeals to travelers seeking a personalized, in-depth experience of Ireland’s cultural and historical landmarks. The professional guidance from Maurice, combined with flexible scheduling and comfortable transportation, makes it a convenient choice.

While the admission fees are additional, the ability to customize the visit and explore at your own pace makes this tour stand out from standard group excursions. It’s particularly suited for small groups or families wanting a more intimate adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour provides a well-rounded snapshot of Ireland’s heritage, blending historic castles, renowned whiskey distilleries, and seaside charm. The professionalism and enthusiasm of guide Maurice shine through, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

It’s a great option for those who prefer a private, flexible tour with the freedom to choose how deeply they engage at each stop. The price point reflects the personalized service and private vehicle, offering good value for those wanting comfort and exclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for visitors with limited mobility?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level; walking at Blarney Castle and the Titanic Experience may pose challenges for some guests.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. However, the stops offer opportunities for snacks or refreshments at your expense.

Can I skip certain stops?
Yes, being a private tour, Maurice can adjust the schedule to spend more time at preferred locations or skip others if desired.

What is the cost of admission to Blarney Castle?
The entrance fee for Blarney Castle is €23 per person and is not included in the tour price.

How long is each stop?
Each main stop lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to explore without feeling rushed.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free if done at least 24 hours prior to the tour start time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for photos are recommended.

Is transportation provided throughout the day?
Yes, the air-conditioned vehicle transports your group between all stops comfortably.

Can the tour accommodate special requests?
Being private, the tour can adapt to your preferences with prior notice.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Maurice Kenneally day tours, known for professional and personable guidance.

This private tour of Cobh, Blarney Castle, and Jameson Distillery offers a tailored way to experience Ireland’s highlights in comfort, with a knowledgeable guide ensuring a smooth and memorable day.