Ahoy there landlubbers.

If you’re in the market for a fun staycation near Cork this summer, you can bring along the family dog for a night or two in a landlocked boat near Kinsale.

The Nesbit, docked permanently in a private garden in Ballinspittle, is a one-bedroom boat with electricity, full cooking facilities, a loo, and showering facilities onboard. The 37ft motorboat, which sleeps three in two beds, was destined for the scrap heap before owner Dawna Connolly and her father completely transformed the vessel over an 18 month period.

“Almost everything in her has been recycled. She is bright, cosy and a funky little place to stay to enjoy the beautiful local countryside,” says Dawna.

A quirky option for solo staycationers, couples and small families, it’s dog-friendly, surrounded by animals, trees and farmland, and just five minutes from the area’s best beaches.

While Kinsale is ten minutes away, you’ll find excellent coffee and lunch at Diva Boutique Bakery in Ballinspittle, and don’t miss the lovely Chalk & Easel gift shop, which is stuffed with gorgeous local crafts, homeware, and candles, once retail reopens.

There’s plenty to explore on long dog walks too; you can bring up to two well-behaved doggos with you to the Nesbitt provided they are kept on a lead at all times while donkeys, cattle, alpacas, and free-roaming hens are in close proximity. They can even provide a pet bed and food and water bowls.

Dates are disappearing fast but there are a few nights remaining (two-night minimum stay) at €95 per night here.