Originally, the port of call today was supposed to be the city of Cobh, however, the name of the port today had been switched to Ringaskiddy. We soon found out the reason we had been bumped….the Serenade of the Seas, RCI, was taking the pier at Cobh. That ship is 90,090 gross tons, and launched in 2003. They are a family-friendly casual cruising experience for about 2100 to 2500 guests. Doubt they had a free shuttle to Cork, but who knows?
Anyway, Ringaskiddy happens to be the commercial port for the city of Cork, and was the destination after a 2 hour scenic sail in with Ian’s commentary. And naturally, they served Leprechaun Rolls made with a paste of ground pistachios.
Once again, we had sun shining early in the morning, but it was still cold outside. No need for the arctic coats today. The ship was docked by 10am, and we were cleared shortly after that. Much to our delight, complimentary shuttles were provided to transport the guests to City Hall in Cork. Without a lot of traffic due to a Bank Holiday, the ride only took 20 minutes.
The one and only time we came to Cobh, we took a tour to Kinsale. Without a tour, the only way to Cork was by a train. And since we were on a bus all day, we never saw this city. Built on the banks of the River Lee, Cork has origins dating back to the 7th century.
There were some ship tours today with two of them for 8 hours to explore Tipperary, or a trip to Waterford, although the original factory closed in 2009. Only a limited crystal production takes place here. Other excursions were 4 hours, taking folks away from Cork to kiss the Blarney Stone, or visit a distillery, or a trip to Kinsale, a charming seaside resort.
We left the ship at 11am, and with three buses running the 20 minute ride, this was much better than having to take a train from Cobh. The stop in the center of Cork was at City Hall, where an arts and food fair was in progress. A couple of street food stalls were set up outside, and they were barbequing sausages. Sure smelled good. There were a few maps inside the hall, but not the good ones. Somehow, we followed the crowd that was crossing the street. Passing the bus station, we followed the River Lee and discovered a modern shopping mall. There were many usual malls shops including Dunnes Store, which we have seen in every Ireland port. Marks and Spencers is another frequently seen store.
Just by luck we found the information center, and picked up some proper maps. Asking one of the nicest helpers, she laid out the best places for pizza, circling the one she preferred. That would work for us, if we could find it. Entering into a maze of streets, we found numerous boutiques and more cafes than stores, and even more pubs than restaurants.
We found that we were across from St. Peter’s Church, that is not really a church anymore. Parts of this church can be dated back to the 12th century. Today it is more of a cultural center. Further up the street, we found a real church that did not look like one from the front. Across the street we found a store that had dozens of old Singer sewing machines in the window. Sure brought back memories from childhood.
Somewhere in the mix, we did locate the English Market, this complex from 1788 offered a range of produce and meat or fish. Many local delicacies can be found there such as tripe, spiced beef, skirts, and kidneys. But since it was Bank Holiday, it was closed.
Then we came across the remains of the old Medieval city showing some of the original foundations of the wall that surrounded the city. At this point, we were on Oliver Plunkett Street and in the area of the restaurant we were searching for. Following the map, we found the side street, and the narrow alleyway that went off of that. At the end of the alley was Scoozi’s, the best pizza place in town. It sure was nice getting a table for two in a cozy back room with other local guests. That is always a good sign when so many locals frequent a restaurant.
We ordered beers and a pizza with a side of fries. Simply delicious, as was the dessert of rocky road cheesecake we shared. Walking back towards City Hall, we passed by many street artists playing guitars or singing for change. Every big city seems to have these folks.
Back on the bus, we rode back with best buddies Leta and Bill, and many others that have become friendly over the months. We sure have met some nice folks on this cruise. The ride back was fun due to the company and also a very entertaining bus driver.
Too bad a local show with a group of eight men singing a-cappella of sea shanties and maritime songs was shown at 3pm. With an all aboard time at 10:30pm, very few people were on the ship at that time. It would have been better to have them on later instead of showing Alaska in Concert in the Mainstage. It is a nice video set to music, but the live singers would have been even better.
With all of us at dinner, we shared our exploits of the day, all agreeing that Cork was a fun place to visit. And definitely not as overwhelming as Belfast and Dublin. The only other item of discussion was about the final Sunday brunch coming up on May 12th, Mother’s Day. Guess they are expecting a crowd because now you need to make reservations at four different start times. Count us out, because we prefer our usual light breakfast far better.
One more port left and it will be a tendering day…..Bantry, Ireland. Frankly, none of us have even heard of it.
Bill & Mary Ann
Wednesday, May 8, 2019
Report #108 Ringaskiddy/Cobh And Cork, Ireland May 6, 2019 Monday Cloudy & 52 degrees
