Behind the Scenes at Spike Island
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Port
Ringaskiddy (Cork), Ireland
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$99
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
After a short transfer to Cobh, board a ferry and cross the water to enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Spike Island — a site steeped in history as a place of worship, defence, and confinement. Discover stories of former residents and the island's enchanting beauty, culminating in a tasting of Spike Island Rum at the Captain's Bar, a nod to the island's rich past with Caribbean connections.
After a short transfer to Cobh, board a ferry and set off to explore Spike Island, venturing to "behind the scenes" areas that are not open to the general public.
Spike Island is a place of mystery and magic that, over the centuries, has been used as a place of worship, defence, confinement and punishment. You'll learn that Spike has been used as a prison off and on for 400 years, and about the chilling history that haunts this beautiful island.
The island also has a magical, lighter side. For centuries, it was home to Irish citizens living a quiet life away from the mainland. Learn what island life was like for the residents as you pass their former homes.
Taste some Spike Island Rum at the Captain's Bar. Today's rum still originates in the Caribbean and is sent to Ireland to be hand-spiced before it is served to you in the bar.
Notes:
The boat is not exclusive to Holland America Line guests. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, flagstones, inclines, gravel, and many steps. Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Please note: Minimum age is 15 years.