Cruise Killarney National Park in the Lily

Killarney National Park is a gorgeous, world-class area and it’s a must see if you are in Kerry. It’s even worth a day-trip from Cork.

The park features over 100 square kilometres of stunning scenery, including lots of areas of diverse ecology from mountains and lakes to ancient Irish woodland. The park also boasts Ireland's only remaining wild herd of native red deer.

There’s one special way to see Killarney National Park and it involves a boat trip offering a different view of this special place. Killarney Day Tour operate this service which is up and running again since earlier this month.

The trip starts from Ross Castle which is just over 2km from the centre of Killarney town. You can get there on the main road - which is Ross Road - or alternatively via Killarney National Park. The route through Killarney National Park is for non-motorised vehicles only so you can walk or cycle.

During the summer months, there are a couple of shuttle bus services that will take you there. The route through Killarney National Park is a great way to go to Ross Castle and it is recommended to go this way if you can.

The Lily of Killarney watercoach is docked directly in front of historic Ross Castle – a 15th century castle on the shores of Lough Leane. The crew will help you on board and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery as you wait for your cruise to begin.

The driver will give a commentary on the history and legends of the area during the cruise. On board you will see attractions such as Ross Castle; Innisfallen Island; the islands on Lough Lein and O’Sullivan’s Cascade.

It’s recommended that you book in advance due to the popularity on some of the sailings.

The trip is a great group activity and suitable for a family get-together, corporate team-building, school tours, conference groups, special interest groups and private charters.