An Emerald Isle Odyssey: Part 1

Kicking Off the Craic and Conquering the Coasts!

Oh, the salty air, the open sea, and the promise of Pub-fueled adventures! There’s nothing quite like setting sail for a grand tour of Ireland, and our 10-night NCL Dawn cruise that departed in July 2025, was truly a dream come true. We wanted to explore Ireland and after looking at land packages and Cruises, we found the perfect cruise itinerary that completely circled the emerald isle. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to swap your land legs for sea legs and dive headfirst into Irish charm, then settle in, because I’m about to spill all the emerald-tinted tea on our journey’s incredible start!

Day 1: RDU to London – The Grand Prelude!

Our adventure began before we ever stepped aboard the NCL Dawn! It all started with a flight from RDU to London—a thrilling way to kick off any European journey. Most transatlantic flights from the U.S. are overnight, which can mean a restful trip if you’re lucky enough to sleep on planes—or a very long night if you’re like me and just can’t. After touching down, we traveled to Southampton, our home base for the night and the perfect place to gear up for the cruise ahead. Arriving a day early is something I always recommend; it takes the pressure off travel day and gives you time to unwind before the real fun begins. We spent the evening taking it easy, exploring shopping, pubs and food while already imagining the lush, green landscapes waiting for us.

Day 2: Southampton, England – All Aboard the NCL Dawn!

The big day had finally arrived! We boarded the stunning NCL Dawn in Southampton. There is always something magical about that first step onto a cruise ship—the promise of new adventures, delicious cuisine, and non-stop entertainment fills the air. With a celebratory drink in hand, we waved goodbye to the English coast, soaking in the view as the ship gently pulled away.

The Dawn, a smaller gem in the Norwegian fleet, carries around 2,300 guests and a dedicated crew of 1,000. We’d actually sailed on her once before, back in 2013, and stepping aboard again felt a bit like coming home. We quickly found our rhythm, diving into the ship’s amenities and getting ready to set sail on our unforgettable Irish odyssey!

Day 3: Waterford, Ireland – Crystal Clear Charm and Viking Lore!

Our first taste of Ireland came in the historic city of Waterford, a tender port that greeted us with its unique charm. Known globally for its exquisite crystal, a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal was an absolute must-do! Watching the master craftsmen blow, cut, and engrave the shimmering pieces was truly mesmerizing. It’s not just a factory tour; it’s an art exhibition in motion! We even picked up a little souvenir (or two!) to remember our visit, each piece a sparkling reminder of this beautiful city.

Beyond the sparkle, Waterford itself is a city steeped in Viking history. We took a leisurely stroll through the Viking Triangle, soaking in the medieval atmosphere and imagining life in ancient times. The city is wonderfully walkable, and we stumbled upon some charming local cafes for a coffee and a scone – the perfect Irish welcome!

Day 4: Cobh, Ireland – From Titanic Tears to Cork City Cheers!

Next up, we docked in Cobh (pronounced “Cove”), the truly picturesque and historically poignant port for Cork. This place has a story to tell, and it whispers tales of both hope and sorrow. Cobh was the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic, and while we didn’t do the Titanic Experience this time, the town’s connection to that fateful voyage is palpable.

Instead, we decided to dive deeper into local life! We started by exploring Cobh itself, a charming town with colorful houses cascading down to the harbor. Then, we hopped on a train to Cork, and what an experience that was! The journey offered lovely views, and once in Cork, we embraced the local culture with open arms. We made it our mission to visit several local pubs along the way, soaking in the friendly atmosphere, enjoying some excellent conversation, and of course even a pint or two of the local brew. It was a fantastic way to experience the genuine warmth of Irish hospitality!

Day 5: Dingle Island & Peninsula – Wild Beauty, Ancient Wonders, and Pub Perfection!

Oh, Dingle! This charming town, accessed by tender, and the surrounding Dingle Peninsula, was an absolute highlight for its sheer natural beauty and vibrant character. We embarked on a scenic tour of the Dingle Peninsula, and let me tell you, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Every turn offered another postcard-perfect vista, from dramatic cliffs to rolling green hills dotted with sheep.

Our journey took us along the famous Slea Head Drive, a winding coastal road that offers unparalleled views of the Atlantic. We stopped to explore the ancient clocháns (beehive huts) and soak in the beauty. A highlight was definitely the views of the Blasket Islands from the mainland – rugged, remote, and steeped in history. We even made a stop in Tralee, enjoying the local atmosphere. Throughout our scenic drive, we kept our eyes peeled for more opportunities to pop into local pubs, experiencing the true “craic” of rural Ireland. After our incredible day exploring the peninsula, we returned to Cobh for some more leisurely walking around and soaking in its charming atmosphere.

Day 6: Limerick & Adare – Castles, Cathedrals, and Quaint Villages!

Our next stop brought us to Foynes which is the tender port for Limerick, where we embarked on a quick tour of the city of Limerick on our way to the enchanting village of Adare. Limerick is a city with a rich medieval past but we did not have a chance to explore much.

A major highlight was King John’s Castle, a magnificent 13th-century fortress standing proudly on King’s Island, overlooking the River Shannon. We also admired the stunning St. Mary’s Cathedral, a beautiful example of medieval architecture with a peaceful, serene atmosphere.

After soaking up the history in Limerick, our tour took us to Adare, often called “Ireland’s Prettiest Village.” And let me tell you, it lives up to its name! With its charming thatched cottages, beautiful gardens, and quaint shops, Adare felt like stepping into a storybook. We enjoyed a delightful stroll, taking in the picturesque scenery before heading back to the ship, our heads filled with tales of kings, castles, and thatched roofs and my thirst for pints quenched.