Train, Ferry, bus, etc. from Shannon or Cork, Ireland to Southampton

[greatam]

We are cruising QE2 transatlantic Jan 2, 2007. But would like to visit friends outside Shannon, Ireland for New Year's Eve. I know I can fly and just pay excess luggage. But would like some kind of adventure. Thinking maybe train to Ferry terminal, ferry to UK, maybe Pembroke??? From there, how do I get to Southampton?

 

Which ferry from Ireland-there seem to be so many? What about to the Isle of Wight? Isn't that just across the channel from Southampton? Will it be inconvenient to get 4 suitcases on the ferry and train-2 rollerboards and two large?

 

I have the time, can even leave New Year's Eve day if necessary. Just looking for suggestions to do something out of the ordinary.