Viking Tours is one of Ireland's most distinctive tourism attractions, founded in 1999 by Michael "Viking Mike" McDonnell. Based in Athlone, the company operates authentic Viking-themed river cruises along the River Shannon to historic sites including Clonmacnoise. Combining history, storytelling and tourism, Viking Tours has become a flagship attraction within Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. The company is renowned for promoting the heritage of the Midlands and has received recognition for its contribution to tourism in County Westmeath.