Meet Your Guide

Derek O’Keeffe


A woman in a long white dress


At Day Tours From Cork, your experience is personally led by multi award-winning tour guide Derek O’Keeffe, a proud Cork native with an unmatched passion for Ireland’s history, landscapes, and people.


Derek was named Bespoke Tour Provider of the Year 2025 by the Corporate LiveWire Innovation & Excellence Awards and Most Exclusive Private Tour Operator 2025 by the Irish Enterprise Awards — honours that reflect his dedication to delivering tours that are truly special.

But awards only tell part of the story.


Derek’s mission is simple: To make every guest feel like a friend and create an experience that will become a treasured lifetime memory.

With deep roots in Cork, Derek brings history to life — not just by showing you the sights, but by weaving stories, local lore, and personal insights into every journey. His guests consistently describe him as professional, warm, intuitive, flexible, and deeply knowledgeable — the kind of guide who tailors each day perfectly to your interests, pace, and mood.


Whether you arrive as a solo traveler, couple, family or group, Derek’s bespoke approach means your itinerary is crafted exactly as you wish:


  • ✅ Want to see Blarney Castle before the crowds? Derek will get you there first.
  • ✅ Looking for a memorable lunch in Kinsale? Derek knows just the right table.
  • ✅ Need a tour that suits three generations with different needs? Derek will make it seamless and joyful for everyone.


His commitment to excellence shines through the words of his guests:


"Absolutely Outstanding — A Private Tour Worth Every Penny… the highlight of our time in Ireland."


"Derek goes above and beyond… professional and warm, intuitive, and happy to adapt throughout the day."


"A ray of sunshine from the start… pride, knowledge, history, passion — he brings it all."


"If there was such a thing as 6-star service, Derek O’Keeffe is the real deal."


"Derek made our trip seamless… attention to detail beyond compare… backroads, castles, culture, cuisine… Ireland at its very best."


When you tour with Derek, you’re not just ticking off sights — you’re immersing yourself in Ireland’s spirit, culture, and landscapes, with a guide who takes personal pride in turning visitors into friends.


👉 Ready to experience a tour that exceeds every expectation?

Contact Derek today — but don’t wait too long: "I originally tried to book him 3 months ago and he was fully booked… JUST BOOK IT!"