Booking: We booked online a little more than 2 weeks in advance. Was easy to prepare for trip and find the bus. Unfortunately the check-in process at the bus was frustrating -- we arrived at the time specified but stood in a line outside the bus for about 25 minutes before the driver showed up. We didn't realize there were passengers who had come from Cork in the morning who were on a horse and carriage tour in Killarney National Park and we had to wait for them to return. They also had saved all their seats on the bus so there was some confusion trying to get seats for us and with our respective travel partners, which made me anxious. The driver was patient and took charge and was able to figure it all out to our satisfaction but we were nearly an hour late leaving Killarney and that was a disappointing start to the day. If this happens to you, be patient, sip your coffee, it's just a blip in a fantastic day!
Itinerary: We enjoyed all of the stops and the context provided by John. Every vista on this trip is breathtaking. If I had to do again would have skipped entrance to bog village and went straight for the whiskey coffees.
Lunch: Nice stop in Waterville with plenty of time to order from a hot buffet and sit and eat, plus a short stroll. Made-to-order options were also available.
Bus: The bus is comfortable, the windows are tall so you can see well on both sides no matter which seat you are in. I am prone to motion sickness and had no trouble at all (without drugs). Felt safe leaving backpack on bus during hop-off stops, and eating snacks - noting driver insists no hot foods or smelly foods please. There are bathrooms at the Kerry bog village, Waterville, Snead and the waterfall (convenient throughout the day)
Driver: John was a good driver and articulate tour guide. He's very funny and gets the crowd involved which I really enjoyed.
Price: Price is totally fair for the memorable day you will have in comfort and ease. Irish coffees, entrance to the Kerry Bog Village, lunch, and ice cream are not included. Bring cash to tip your driver at the end.
