Winterval Cruises
Passengers take a scenic cruise along the River Suir aboard the Barrow Princess, passing landmarks such as the King's Channel, Waterford Castle, and the Port of Waterford out to Bellview Port. Guests can take in panoramic views from the open-air upper deck or stay warm in the heated indoor lounge. Cruises feature festive music along with options for a Santa visit or seasonal treats and drinks from the onboard bar.
Nov 29 – Dec 20, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Tickets
Winterval Wonderland Santa Cruise: Adult €26; Senior €21; Student (13–17) €13; Child (3–12) €16, including Santa visit and selection box; Infant (0–2) free but must be booked. Family 1 (2 Adults + 2 Children (3–12)) €77; Family 2 (2 Adults + 3 Children (3–12)) €89. Waterford Winterval Festival Cruise: Adult €26; Senior €21; Student (13–17) €13; Child (3–12) €10. Family 1 (2 Adults + 2 Children (3–12)) €68; Family 2 (2 Adults + 3 Children (3–12)) €77. Booking fee applies to the family bundles.
Hours
Santa Cruise: 11am and 1pm; Winterval Wonderland Cruise: 3pm. The page’s Winterval Cruises Dates & Times list shows 11am, 1pm and 3pm on each of its listed dates.
Food & Drink
Seasonal hot and cold refreshments, including hot chocolate, mince pies and mulled wine from the licensed bar, are available to purchase in the onboard lounge.
Parking
Allow plenty of time to park your vehicle.
Accessibility
The lower deck and lounge are wheelchair accessible, but the top deck and onboard toilets are not.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Book ahead because booking is essential and onboard ticket sales are subject to availability.
- Arrive at the marina gate 10 minutes before departure and wait there for a crew member to check you in.
- Allow plenty of time to park, as late arrivals and no-shows are non-refundable.
- Dress for the weather if you want to use the open-air top deck; the heated indoor lounge is another option.
- Book infants aged 0–2 on the Santa Cruise even though their tickets are free.
Special Events & Promotions
- Infants aged 0–2 ride free on the Santa cruise but must be booked.
- Senior and student tickets are offered.
- Family saver bundles are available for both cruise options.
- Santa visits are part of the Santa cruise; the Festival Cruise has no Santa.
- Mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies are available to purchase separately on the Festival Cruise.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What route does the cruise follow?
The boat departs Adelphi Quay and cruises along the River Suir past the city, King's Channel, Waterford Castle, and the Port of Waterford, before turning around at Bellview Port.
Are refreshments available onboard?
Yes, hot and cold seasonal refreshments, including hot chocolate, mince pies, and mulled wine from a licensed bar, are available for purchase in the lounge.
What is included with a child's ticket on the Santa Cruise?
Children's tickets for the Santa Cruise include a visit with Santa, a photo opportunity, and a selection box.
What happens if a cruise is cancelled due to weather?
Refunds are issued if a cruise is cancelled by the operator due to severe weather, fog, or unforeseen circumstances, with notices sent via email.
Can tickets be bought in person on the day?
Tickets may be purchased directly from the crew onboard, subject to availability, though advance booking is recommended.
Browse Christmas in Waterford
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.