This fun and relaxing tour provides a great opportunity to discover Belfast or Hibernian Rio as one writer once called it.
Ringed by high hills, sea, lough and a river valley, Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and has a population of over 1/2 million people. Merely a village in the 17th century, this robust northern metropolis was the engine-room that drove the whirring wheels of the industrial revolution in Ulster. The development of industries like linen, rope-making and shipbuilding doubled the size of the town every ten years and the world's largest dry dock is located here. The shipyard's two giant cranes, affectionately named Samson and Goliath, tower over the city's skyline. In contrast, there are also many elegant Victorian and Edwardian buildings that still grace the city today, with elaborate sculptures over doors and windows and stone-carved heads of Gods and poets, scientists, kings and queens peer down from the high ledges of banks and old linen warehouses.
Starting off from the pier, you'll enjoy an orientation tour of this famous city that will take you past City Hall, Queens University and the Waterfront Hall before driving to the city's suburbs to photograph the renowned murals for which Belfast is famous. A short distance outside the city, you'll see Stormont, seat of the Northern Ireland Assembly. A symbol of progress to Northern Ireland's troubled past, the power sharing executive with responsibility for Northern affairs rule from this impressive building.
Traveling back into Belfast, a visit will be made to the Crown Liquor Saloon, one of Belfast's most famous pubs and a cherished landmark. This splendidly ornate, gas-lit pub of all colored marbles, tiles, mirrors and paneled booths - is a Victorian homage to the art of drinking. Today, wonderfully preserved and owned by the National Trust, the Crown is still well used by the people of Belfast. Enjoy coffee or tea and chat with the locals before it's time to head back to the ship.
Please note: This tour is considered primarily panoramic with only brief photo stops and the pub visit. The tour is considered suitable for wheelchair guests who can make their way on and off the coach. Weather appropriate clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. Guests should be prepared for the possibility of rain. The order of sites visited may vary.