Pictures: Valerie O’Sullivan
Killarney brothers Michael and Tony Fleming have launched a new traditional open boat experience that is accessible for all people, including those with challenges and different abilities.
They run Ross Castle Boat Tours, based at Ross Castle, and the new boat ‘An Cathal’ is named in honour of their late father, Charlie Fleming, who operated Ross Castle Boat Tours until his passing in 2024.
Michael and Tony Fleming worked collaboratively with the National Parks and Wildlife Services in the design and output of the inclusive tour boat where people will now have the opportunity and support and enjoy Killarney National Park’s Unesco Biosphere Reserve.
The specially designed boat is specifically for people with limited mobility and neurodiverse needs as it is fitted with a fixed stairway to enable people access and egress the boat with ease and it has fasteners built into the floor to allow wheelchairs to be securely attached.
The boat is also fitted with a dedicated diversity section with a sensory box and all the staff have completed AsIAm online training. Assistance Dogs are also welcome on-board.
“We are committed to expanding our support services and are currently working on a visual guide for inclusion on our website. This will highlight what guests can expect on arrival and during a tour,” Michael said.
“Our aim when we were looking at this project was to create an outdoor experience, particularly one that was inclusive and supported biodiversity across the Killarney National Park”.
