Perhaps you could begin in Dublin and take a tour bus one way to the Shannon area and then do a boat tour. Two years ago Carmen and I stayed at a room in O'Donohues Pub while in Dublin. It is just a half block off St. Stephens Green. The room, although somewhat small, was adequate and well priced. We chose O'Donohues because of its nightly music and proximity to the Green (which is also adjacent to the pedestrian walkway that leads through the shopping district. Tour buses can be boarded at the Green. There is also a nice pub on the next corner away from the Green from O'Donohues where live music can be found. (Upstairs is a rather nice restaurant also.) Many famous sites are within easy walking distance. The only down side I found was that the famous Temple Bar was a very long walk away. If you PM me I would be pleased to share some other info and perhaps offer some photos.