Waterford: City, County & Crystal

Departing from the cathedral town of Cobh, you will drive through East Cork to the neighbouring County of Waterford. 

In the city of the same name, you'll visit the newly constructed House of Waterford Crystal. Completed in 2010, the Waterford Crystal Center is the heart of all things Waterford. An audio-visual presentation recounts the history of Waterford Crystal from its founding in 1783 to the present. Take a tour that traces Waterford crystal production from mould making and glass blowing to final cutting and etching by master craftsmen. View parts of the process close-up; questions and photographs are welcomed. Your tour concludes at the showroom, where there is ample free time to browse among the world's largest display of Waterford crystal, giftware, craft and jewelry collections.

A drive along the city's quay will introduce you to Waterford's Viking roots. The city was settled by a Celtic tribe called the Deisi, and is still widely referred to as 'the Decies'. Recent archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of a Viking settlement here as early as the 10th century -- not quite obliterated by the Anglo-Normans who followed. In fact, the city's English name comes from the Norse word, Vadrefjord. 

Following lunch at a local hotel, you will drive to Lismore. A brief stop allows you to photograph the spectacular Lismore Castle, Irish home to the Duke of Devonshire and former home of Sir Walter Raleigh. Traveling through tranquil and picturesque countryside, you will enjoy the leisurely drive back to Cobh and your waiting ship.