Spike Island

Your tour begins by walking, accompanied by your guide, to the boat that you will take to Spike Island. Measuring 104 acres, Spike Island is one of the largest natural harbors in the world. During the 18th century, the island’s rugged shoreline was a hiding place for smugglers. In order to protect the harbor, a series of artillery fortifications were built during the 17th and 18th centuries, the largest of which is on Spike Island. Incredibly, between 1985 and 2004, the fort was reopened as a prison to hold young offenders — mainly “joyriders” convicted of stealing and recklessly driving cars on the mainland. Today, Spike Island is a source of history and fascinating stories that will make your guided tour rather interesting. Afterward, you’ll have some free time to explore the island on your own. Then re-board the boat for the return journey to Cobh. Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore are welcome to do so but must make their way back to the ship on their own.