Captain your own vessel in Athlone

Ernie sets sail in Ireland on the Shannon River, at Athlone, near Dublin.

With his river cruiser set up to make the leisurely trip as relaxing as possible, Ernie explores the river, lochs and towns along the way.

He stops off at ancient monastery once beset by Vikings who to this day still capture the imagination of locals and visitors.

If you're looking for a bit more adventure on the river you can take a cruise attired as a Viking.

If it's tall stories and local characters you're after try cycling into Athlone to be won over by some Irish charm.

Ernie visits a pub that is said to Ireland's oldest - 1,100 years old, they say.

And no trip to the Emerald Isle would be the same without a drop of the local brew. Of course Ernie obliges.

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