Sailing on a Shannon slow boat…
Go Barging launches new luxury hotel-barge in Ireland

WINDSOR - ENGLAND, March 24, 2003 – Go Barging, the leading British luxury hotel-barge owner and operator announces the launch of a new
10 passenger vessel on the Shannon River in Ireland

Shannon Princess II, newly commissioned in 2003 and custom built for river cruising, will be launched on June 29, 2003, commencing her inaugural cruise from the historic cathedral city of Killaloe. The only luxury hotel-barge on the Shannon, she will travel northwards at a gentle six knots on a seven day/six night itinerary.

Shannon Princess II measures 107’ and having a width of 20’, offers unusually spacious accommodations comprising five twin/double suites and an upscale saloon/dining room and sundeck. All suites incorporate private bathrooms and are appointed to the highest standard, fitted with individual climate control and large picture windows affording panoramic views of the ever changing vista. The suites are finished with Irish bed linen, bathrobes, hair dryer and complimentary toiletries as well as Ballygowan (locally bottled) water and chocolates for the indulgent!

The saloon is furnished with a sumptuous décor and incorporates a fully stocked bar - available 24/7. On board entertainment includes a state-of-the-art sound system and ship’s library. Also available are bicycles for excursions to areas of interest - for attractions further away the crew will ferry passengers in an air conditioned vehicle. Go Barging will always accommodate passenger’s requests for specific activities such as hot air ballooning, horse riding or golf.

With nearly 30 years experience Go Barging delivers absorbing itineraries, deluxe vessels and gourmet cuisine - the Shannon Princess II experience is no exception. She is skippered by a Captain with 10 years river-cruising experience supported by a skilled crew, including a Tour Guide and Hostesses. Guests will also enjoy the services of a Master Chef who will be serving regional specialties using local ingredients and a selection of fine wines fit for a gourmand. The friendly team, facilitated by a ratio of one crewmember to every two passengers, aims to deliver exclusive, efficient and personal service to every passenger.

The Shannon River is a waterway of nearly 250 miles spanning eleven counties from county Fermanagh in the north to county Kerry in the southwest, an area which is home to some of the best golfing in Ireland. “The best feature of the Shannon River is the intrinsic Irish-ness embracing all that is best about Ireland, especially the warmth of the people.” says Derek Banks, CEO of Go Barging. “It is the most tranquil and relaxing place on earth. Cruising at a leisurely pace along the Shannon allows people to enjoy a slower speed of life and to gain a unique perspective on Ireland.”

Shannon Princess II will travel the southern reaches of the Shannon, cruising close to attractions such as the Bronze Age settlement of Crannog, which was built on stilts over water by the first inhabitants who arrived in 8000 BC from Scotland.

There will be an excursion to Galway City where the busy port area once accommodated large sailing ships bound for the Americas. Today, Galway is the fastest growing city in Europe and has both cultural attractions, such as Kylemore Abbey and Athenry Castle as well as excellent shopping for local specialties including Waterford Crystal.

Continuing up-river the journey takes in Shannonbridge - named after the bridge built in 1757. The peat bogs that surround Shannonbridge are home to an abundance of flora and fauna and are preserved as a natural habitat to endangered birds such as the Corncrake. The voyage ends in Athlone, one of the biggest towns on the Shannon, which retains an old world charm within its’ narrow streets. Due to its location in the centre of Ireland, Athlone has historically been of great strategic importance and always housed a garrison, the current one is known as Custume Barracks, built in the 1690s.

Rates for the six-night/seven day cruises range from $3100 to $4185 per person, whole boat charter rates for up to ten people are from $30,000. The price includes accommodation, champagne welcome, three gourmet meals a day with wine, open bar, use of all facilities on board, shore excursions, admittance fees, use of bicycles and other facilities.