Welcome to Foynes, a charming and historic port on the serene Shannon Estuary. As a key stop along Ireland's famed Wild Atlantic Way, Foynes offers a uniquely authentic Irish experience.
While a smaller, more intimate destination, it is increasingly visited by premium cruise lines such as Azamara, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Silversea.
Its main appeal lies in its rich aviation history as the birthplace of the Irish Coffee and its convenient access to iconic landmarks like the Cliffs of Moher and the vibrant city of Limerick, providing a perfect blend of local charm and grand adventure.
The premier attraction, located directly in Foynes, is the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum. Here, you'll discover the fascinating story of how this town became a major transatlantic aviation hub in the 1930s and 40s. A highlight is learning about the invention of Irish Coffee and enjoying one in its birthplace.
A full-day shore excursion will take you to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland's most spectacular sights. Located about a 90-minute scenic drive from the port, these dramatic cliffs rise over 700 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views.
In the nearby city of Limerick, a 40-minute drive, the magnificent King John's Castle is a must-visit. This stunning 13th-century fortress on King's Island offers interactive exhibitions that bring local history to life.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Just a 40-minute drive away is the historic city of Limerick, situated on the River Shannon. Here you can explore the formidable King John's Castle, the medieval St. Mary's Cathedral, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a modern Irish city.
Approximately 30 minutes from Foynes is the picturesque village of Adare, widely regarded as one of Ireland's prettiest towns. It is famous for its charming thatched cottages, historic monasteries, and lovely boutiques.
A must-see for many visitors is the world-renowned Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, about a 30-minute journey from the port. This comprehensive attraction features a beautifully restored 15th-century castle and a recreated 19th-century Irish village, offering a full day of historical immersion.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The cruise berth in Foynes is located at the Foynes Port, a deep-water commercial harbor on the Shannon Estuary.
The port is conveniently situated adjacent to the small town of Foynes, and it is just a short, five-minute walk from the ship's gangway to the town's main street.
Because of this proximity, shuttle buses are not necessary to explore the town itself. The town offers basic amenities including pubs, a few shops, and the famous Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum.
As a deep-water facility, cruise ships dock directly at the quay, so passengers can walk right off the ship without the need for tenders.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency in Foynes and throughout the Republic of Ireland is the Euro (€).
While some tourist-focused shops in major cities might accept US dollars, it is not common practice in Foynes, and the exchange rate will not be favorable.
ATMs are available in the town for withdrawing Euros, which is the recommended method for getting cash.
Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases at local pubs or markets.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Foynes and the surrounding areas of County Limerick are generally very safe with a low crime rate, and visitors can feel secure exploring independently.
The main safety consideration for tourists is to exercise standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure, especially in more crowded tourist sites.
If renting a car or on a bus tour, be aware that many rural roads are narrow and winding; always be cautious of agricultural vehicles and local traffic.
There are no specific areas to avoid, and the region is well-known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Guided tours are recommended for reaching distant attractions simply for convenience and time management.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The weather in Foynes, typical of the west of Ireland, is mild and highly changeable. The local saying "four seasons in one day" can often be true, so it is best to be prepared for anything.
During the main cruise season from May to September, expect average temperatures to range from 12°C to 20°C (mid-50s to high 60s F).
Rain is a possibility at any time of year, so packing a waterproof jacket and an umbrella is highly recommended, even on days that start with bright sunshine.
The best advice is to dress in layers—a t-shirt, a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof outer layer—that you can easily add or remove as conditions change. Comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes are essential for exploring.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The town of Foynes is small and easily walkable, so no transportation is needed to explore the immediate area, including the popular Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum.
For venturing further, options are more limited. Local taxis can be arranged, but it is best to book them in advance, especially on a cruise day.
Public transport via Bus Éireann connects Foynes with Limerick, but the schedules may not be frequent enough for the time constraints of a port call. Ride-sharing services like Uber are generally not available in this rural area.
The most convenient way to see nearby attractions like the Cliffs of Moher or Bunratty Castle is through the ship's organized shore excursions or by booking a private driving tour in advance.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Shopping opportunities directly in Foynes are modest, consisting of a few local shops offering basic goods and souvenirs, particularly at the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum gift shop.
For a more extensive shopping experience, visitors should travel to Limerick, about 40 minutes away. The city centre features a mix of high-street brands and department stores along O'Connell and Cruises Streets, as well as smaller, independent boutiques.
Look for classic Irish souvenirs such as woolen Aran sweaters, Claddagh rings, local crafts, and fine Irish whiskey. Prices are generally fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice.
Non-EU visitors can look for 'Tax Free Shopping' signs in participating stores to be eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund upon their departure from the European Union.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
A private shore excursion allows you to create a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests, avoiding the larger tour bus crowds. You can enjoy the flexibility of exploring the stunning west coast of Ireland at your own pace with a knowledgeable local.
With a personal chauffeur guide, you can comfortably journey to world-famous sites like the dramatic Cliffs of Moher or the unique limestone landscape of the Burren. Your luxury tour could also include a visit to the medieval Bunratty Castle and Folk Park or the charming, thatched-roof village of Adare.
The focus of these guided tours is to help you craft a truly memorable day ashore based on your personal preferences. Your driver is dedicated to providing an exceptional Irish experience, ensuring your comfort and sharing insights into the region's rich history and culture.
Embark on a breathtaking journey from Edinburgh to Glencoe, the Highlands, and Loch Ness with an expert local guide. You'll enjoy stunning views of The Kelpies, Stirling Castle, the Cairngorms, and Ben Nevis along the way. Travel in a luxury vehicle with leather seats, WiFi, and complimentary drinks and snacks. This private tour takes you through Scotland's most magnificent landscapes for memories that will last a lifetime.
This private tour takes you to dramatic, scenic places off the beaten path where larger coaches cannot go. Your journey will be tailor-made to suit your personal interests and preferred tempo. It is the perfect way to explore unique landscapes at your own pace.
Enjoy an award-winning sea safari experience on a private Rib boat, perfect for the whole family. You can tailor-make your own tour, spending time seeing the sights that interest you most. This is a unique opportunity to create a personalized adventure on the water.
Relax and enjoy the trip of a lifetime as you travel the famous Ring of Kerry and the scenic Skellig Ring from Killarney. This five to seven-hour tour passes through the National Park, past Ireland's highest mountains, and visits the birthplace of Daniel O'Connell. The trip also includes a visit to the Skellig Experience and a short walk to the beautiful Torc Waterfall.
Take a private motor tour along the world-renowned Ring of Kerry, a classic driving route on the Wild Atlantic Way. Starting in Killarney, you will journey past dramatic sea views and sheer cliffs. This tour also includes the Skellig Ring, offering some of Ireland's best coastal scenery rarely visited by larger coaches.
Experience the world’s only daily placenames walking tour, an intimate luxury experience for a maximum of eight guests. Uncover the hidden history of Castlehaven along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way as the landscape itself tells stories of Viking traders and Gaelic chieftains. Your tour concludes with a gourmet picnic featuring West Cork cheese, smoked seafood, and local home baking.
Explore the picturesque Dingle Peninsula with acclaimed guides Mossie and Helen, proud recipients of TripAdvisor's Travellers's Choice Award for three consecutive years. Take in breathtaking scenery and visit fascinating archaeological and historical sites in comfort. This tour commemorates more than 6,000 years of local history, culture, spirituality, and music.
Your experience begins with a complimentary Gin & Tonic, followed by a guided tour of the distillery. Next, you'll learn the basics of mixology from our Head Mixologist and create two of your own custom cocktails in our eclectic Drink Studio. This fun, 90-minute class explores the history and techniques of creating perfectly-balanced cocktails.
Explore Dingle with a local, accredited guide on this private tour for up to four people. The itinerary is tailored to suit your needs, allowing you to stop when and where you wish. With a guide who has many years of experience, this is the perfect way to discover Dingle at your own pace.
Discover the best of Kinsale on a unique three-hour guided e-bike tour, with tours running three times a day. Your expert local guide will lead you through every nook of the town, with routes tailored to each group. High-quality electric bikes and smart helmets for easy communication ensure a comfortable and captivating experience.
Set out on a family-friendly boat tour of Kinsale Harbour and the Bandon River. Your narrated trip can include mackerel and lobster fishing, wildlife interaction, or sightseeing of local fortifications, coves, and islands. Your captain is a local with 40 years of experience as a navigations officer, ensuring a passionate and informative tour.
Experience the Giant's Causeway with guides who are passionate about sharing Ireland's history, stories, and character. The tour is delivered in a friendly, funny, and informative manner. You can expect top-class service and the utmost in customer satisfaction on this private tour.
Enjoy a personal chauffeur-guided tour with an accredited and personable guide. You will travel in a very luxurious Mercedes S-Class 350. This is an opportunity to explore in ultimate comfort and style.
Discover a spectacularly beautiful area of the Wild Atlantic Way that is not known to many people. Explore the amazing Toe Head peninsula, from its hidden rock pools to its amazing vistas. This is a chance to see incredible scenery and wildlife off the beaten path.
Experience the best of County Cork on an exclusive private tour to Blarney Castle, Kinsale, and Cobh, the final port of the Titanic. Travel in an executive limousine or luxury minivan with panoramic views, operated by an award-winning, 5-star rated local company. With door-to-door pickup from the Cobh Cruise Terminal, every detail is taken care of for a seamless and memorable day.
Immerse yourself in the amazing collection of stories from local Irish folklore on this unique tour. You will visit the very areas where these magical stories and legends took place. This is a truly magical way to experience local Irish culture and history.
Set sail on a thrilling 1.5-hour boat tour along the Wild Atlantic Way to explore Valentia Island. This adventure combines the thrill of speed with the awe of exploration from a unique water’s-edge perspective. You will come face-to-face with mysterious caves, dramatic cliffs, and diverse wildlife on this picturesque journey.
Embark on an exhilarating e-bike adventure through the enchanting landscapes of West Cork. This brand-new tour follows a 40-kilometer hilly circuit on narrow country lanes, starting and ending in the fishing village of Union Hall. State-of-the-art e-bikes with sophisticated suspension make tackling the slopes a breeze as you explore Myross, Leap, Rosscarbery, and Glandore.
Enjoy a memorable experience with a company that prides itself on attention to detail and quality service. Ride the highest quality bikes and e-bikes, all serviced by trained mechanics. Your staff guides have completed the Greenway champions programme and have excellent knowledge of local places and activities.
Enjoy a personal chauffeur-guided tour with an accredited and personable guide. You will travel in a very luxurious Mercedes S-Class 350. This is an opportunity to explore in ultimate comfort and style.
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On average cruises visiting Foynes are somewhat affordable compared to other itineraries. Prices are roughly steady throughout the year. Take a look at the diagram below for the average cost per day by month.
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