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completely unique Galway Bay Tours experience

boat tours galway

A sensation like no other, cruising Galway Bay has a rhythm all of its own. Experience the thrill of exploring the very edge of Ireland with our Galway Bay and Aran Island tours.

Take in the unspoiled landscape and shores teeming with life along the wild Atlantic coast. Here, you will discover breathtaking views of Gleninagh Castle, Black Head Lighthouse and Martello towers, with the Aran Islands on the horizon, and watch the ever-changing light sweep across the Burren.

Lose yourself in the nautical legacy and local lore as the native crew share stories of a time long past. Reflect on the vibrant maritime history, back to a time when trade vessels crowded na Chaoláire, (where Galway bay narrows), making the waves barely visible amongst the red sails that stretched across the bay and beyond the islands.

Enjoy light refreshments and a family-friendly performance of traditional Irish music provided by the crew, you are welcome to join in if you can!

A man with a flat cap is playing a fiddle on the Galway Girl Cruises boat. Galway Girl Cruises operates daily Galway Bay tours.

Featured boat trips around Galway bay

Scenic views, rugged landscape, marine life and the magnificent wild atlantic way. see it all on our regular service – 3 sailings a day departing from galway docks. our galway bay tours are truly an exceptional experience..

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Galway Bay Day Tour

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Aran Islands Cruise Tour

  • Aran Islands

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Private Charters

boat tours galway

The wildness of the Galway coast reflects the very forces that have shaped it over millennia.

Galway Bay was originally known as Lough Lurgan (Loch Lurgain), back at a time when there were only three significant lakes on the island of Ireland. Loch Lurgan was a large lake between West Connaught and the County of Clare, and it was separated from the Atlantic Ocean by strong banks, until the Atlantic burst these banks, flooding everything but the three Aran Islands.

Modern day coastal explorers can join the Galway Girl Cruises crew onboard and set sail from the mouth of the Corrib, the fastest flowing river in Europe. From there, cruise past Nimmo’s Pier and the Claddagh into the expanse of Galway Bay and experience the thrill of leaving the edge of Ireland.

The crew will point out the landmarks and coastal markers of interest including the Leverets, Martello Towers, seal colonies and more as we make our way to South Sound (An Súnda ó Theas), also known as Bealach na Finnise, between Inisheer/ Inis Oírr and County Clare.

WHAT MAKES OUR GALWAY BAY TOURS SO VERY DIFFERENT

A huge dark rock on the shores of the Galway Bay. Galway Girl Cruises operates daily Galway Bay tours.

Experience Galway Bay

Feel the beating heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, a timeless place where Irish language, traditions and vibrant culture are cherished ​

boat tours galway

Ceoil agus Craic

Get your feet tapping and heart racing with a trad session onboard, played in natural rhythm to the monghar or roar of the ocean

A book and and a bouquet of purple flowers on a desk

sin scéal eile

If these waters could talk… Hear the stories and maritime misadventures of the Galway coast, passed down through generations

Galway Hooker boats sailing on the Galway Bay waters

Seafaring Legacy

Join 3rd generation fishermen Patrick and Tommy onboard the Galway Girl and set sail on a voyage of cultural discovery and spectacular scenery

boat tours galway

Happy Travellers

We thrive to make every trip a unique experience. Hear it from some of our precious guests. We love that they alway have an amazing Galway Bay tour! 

Angelica Dwayne

One of the greatest experiences we had in our Ireland trip! Simply superb! Tommy and Patrick went above and beyond.

Ewdard N. Teach

The friendly and knowledgable crew made us feel welcome. We learned a lot while enjoying the magnificent vistas of Galway Bay.

All you need for a fantastic day out! We had lots of Irish "craic"!, enjoyed lovely music and saw dolphins!

A dolphin is jumping our of the water in a playful way in the Galway Bay waters. Galway Girl Cruises operates daily Galway Bay tours.

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Stories, guides and updates

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Ceol, Craic & Coastal Tales: Connolly Brothers’ Galway Girl Cruises Sets Sail on Galway Bay

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48 Hours in Galway – Your Second Day In Galway

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48 Hours in Galway – Your First Full Day

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Galway Bay Boat Tours

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Galway Bay Boat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Galway Bay Boat Tours

Galway Bay Boat Tours

Boating, sailing & scenic boat tours ⛵.

Looking to get out on Galway Bay? Want to spend half a day fishing or sail out to the Aran Islands? We have boats to suit everyone from a short trip out to Salthill to an overnight adventure to the Aran island’s. Our boats range in size from from 20 ft to 45 ft. We offer fishing, sailing, powerboating and a lot of other activities.

boat tours galway

All of our boats are registered with the Department of the Marine. All of our skippers are highly experienced and fully qualified.

Available tours

Galway hooker workshop & boat tour.

Galway Hooker Museum Workshop

Immerse yourself in the tradition of the Galway Hooker, integral to Galway’s identity since the 1800s. This tour includes a motorboat excursion around Claddagh and Galway Bay, offering insights into the heritage of these iconic fishing boats. Duration: 1.5 hours. Price: Starting from €30 per person.

Claddagh & Docklands Walking Tour

View from Claddagh Basin

Take a stroll with Ciaran through Galway’s historic city center, visiting its most picturesque spots such as the Spanish Arch, Long Walk, and Port of Galway. Discover the city’s fishing heritage and pay a visit to the Galway Hooker workshop. Duration: 1.5 hours. Price: Starting from €15 per person.

Private Boat Hire

Private boat tours

Craft your own bespoke boat journey on Galway Bay. Gather your loved ones for a picnic along the riverbank amidst the lively ambiance of Galway City or opt for a guided exploration of Salthill and its landmarks. Price: Starting from €100.

Galway Hooker sailing experience

Phone: (+353) 871124232 Email: [email protected]

Popular tours for...

The claddagh, galway hooker boats, irish heritage, boat building, master craftsmen, best rate hotels.

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boat tours galway

GALWAY BAY BOAT TOURS

If you are looking for a unique way to explore Galway City and its surroundings, you might want to consider booking a boat tour with Galway Bay Boat Tours. This family-run business offers customised sightseeing trips around Galway Bay and the Claddagh, the historic fishing village that is home to the iconic Galway Hooker, the traditional wooden sailboat of the region.

Galway Bay Boat Tours has a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. You can choose from a one-hour boat tour that takes you around the bay and gives you a glimpse of the maritime history and culture of Galway, a one-and-a-half-hour boat tour that includes a visit to the Galway Hooker workshop where you can learn more about the craftsmanship and heritage of these boats, a one-and-a-half-hour walking tour that covers the most photographed sights of Galway city such as the Spanish Arch, the Long Walk and the Port of Galway, or a private boat hire that allows you to create your own itinerary and enjoy a picnic on the river or a guided tour of the landmarks on your route.

Whichever option you choose, you will be accompanied by Ciaran Oliver, one of the last surviving fishing families of Claddagh, who will share his personal stories and insights into the life and history of this area. You will also have the opportunity to see some of the wildlife and scenery of Galway Bay, such as seal colonies, lighthouses, castles and islands. And if you are lucky, you might even catch a live performance of traditional Irish music onboard, featuring instruments such as the fiddle, accordion and bodhran.

Galway Bay Boat Tours is a great way to experience Galway from a different perspective and to connect with its rich maritime heritage. You can book your tour online via their website or by phone. Tours generally operate from April to October. Don’t miss this chance to see Galway City from the sea!

New Docks, Galway, Ireland

53.269011, -9.047182

Galway Bay Boat Tours

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Welcome Aboard!

Experience the magic of the seas with Nimmo Tours on Galway Bay

Nimmo Tours on Galway Bay is an independent and family owned boat charter and tour company providing unique experiences on the waters of Galway Bay.

SHE'S A FINE VESSEL

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Our Fisher 32ft Angling boat is a P3 licensed  vessel who’s weathered these wild Irish waters for many a year on fishing expeditions and charter tours alike. She’s can  carry up to 12 passengers and two crew on-board. We think she’s a beauty and we know you’ll love her too.

OUR SERVICES

Guided boat tours of galway bay .

Our Captain has been a native of the Galway area all his life and can give you a day to remember.  Our guided 90 minute tours cost just €20 per person.

Galway Bay Boat Charter

Charter our boat for the day. You tell us which way to go, and ships ahoy!

Personalised tours 

Our vessel only holds up to 12 passengers so you won’t find any massive tour groups here. You can be sure that your day will be tailored to you, ensuring your Galway Bay experience will be truly special. We can accommodate groups up to 24 people with a second boat for stag parties, hen parties, wedding ceremonies etc.

Sea angling expeditions in Galway Bay 

We supply the equipment, you supply the skill. Find out what’ll be the catch of the day when you have a go at sea-fishing in Galway Bay. The bay is teeming with marine life, and by booking a fishing expedition with us, you can try your hand at catching some. Great fun for all the family.

Get Married at Sea

Why not elope and get married in the beautiful surrounds of Galway Bay? Our Captain is fully ordained  by the Universal Life Church Ministries! We can arrange a wonderful ceremony on-board where you can tie the knot on the waters with just you and your closest. Make your big day the most memorable one with Nimmo Tours on Galway Bay.

Galway Bay Wildlife spotting trips

You never know what wildlife you might see out on the bay, you might even spot Nimmo, the bay's resident bottlenose dolphin.

Sunset boat tours on Galway Bay

Arrange a trip during the golden hours and see the magical colours of the sun setting on the western horizon of the Atlantic ocean. Truly a sight to behold.

boat tours galway

To enquire about or arrange any of our services, please send a WhatsApp message or phone call to  +353851055741 and we will respond as soon as possible.

You can also email ✉️ [email protected]

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Boat at The Claddagh at Galway Bay Boat Tours Galway City

  • On the water
  • City breaks
  • Coastal escapes
  • History and heritage

Experience the magic of Galway Bay Boat Tours, Galway City, where you can choose from walking tours, boat tours, themed excursions and boat picnics. Enjoy a seafood platter to complement your trip. Meet the Oliver family, a team of professional seafarers, and listen as they regale you with intriguing tales of Galway’s rich maritime history.

Immerse yourself in local history as you cruise along the River Corrib. Admire the rolling Clare hills in the distance and the very best of Galway's stunning coastal scenery during a memorable boat trip.

On one of their walking tours, take in the famous scenes of Galway culture that have inspired generations as you learn first hand all about the Claddagh and the famous Galway Hookers. Your guide Ciaran Oliver is a local Claddagh fisherman and has a wealth of stories and history to make your trip a memorable marine experience.

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  • Catch, cook and eat a lobster.
  • Take a thrilling powerboat excursion.
  • Relive ancient Galway sailing traditions.
  • Learn from professional skippers.

Take the opportunity to sail on a traditional handcrafted Galway Hooker Sailing Boat, a true bucket list experience.

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Galway Bay Boat Tours

Galway Bay Boat Tour - w/Seasonal Fishing or Lobster Safari

Join local fisherman Ciaran Oliver, one of the last surviving fishing families of Claddagh, on a boat trip across Galway Bay. Live the history of Galway’s maritime past and the traditional wooden sailboats, the Galway Hooker.

Embrace nature and the expansive views that reach the city, sea and the UNESCO site of the Burren in County Clare as Ciaran shares insights into his life as a fisherman and tells stories from the famous Claddagh village.

Learn about the traditional sailboats, Galway Hookers, and witness Ciaran’s infectious passion for these boats and the community that dedicate their time to preserving these crafts.

What You Can Expect

  • Boat tour of Galway Bay with local fisherman, Ciaran Oliver, visiting popular and scenic areas such as the Claddagh, Spanish Arch, the Long Walk, Port of Galway and the bay.
  • Insight into Ireland’s maritime history.
  • Enjoy the views of Galway City from the sea, and across the bay, the famous UNESCO site of the Burren Co Clare.
  • Learn how this small fishing community on the west coast, survived on the sea and fished in traditional sailing boats known as Galway Hookers. 

Galway Bay Boat Tour Details

Galway boat tour gallery, upgrade options - seasonal fishing or lobster safari.

You can upgrade the following tour at an additional cost and longer duration – choose from below;

  • Boat tour as above with either Lobster or Seasonal fishing (e.g. Mackerel)
  • Learn about the Oliver Family who are one of the last surviving fishing families in the Claddagh who still earn a living from the sea. 
  • Get an insight into shrimp and lobster fishing and learn how to catch lobsters and other species in this grade ‘A’ shellfish bay.
  • Hear about the conservation measures now in place to protect and sustain this small inshore industry.

Upgraded Boat Tour

Privacy overview.

THE 10 BEST Galway Boat Tours

Boat tours in galway.

  • Kayaking & Canoeing
  • Nature & Wildlife Tours
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Couples
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Adventurous
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Hidden Gems
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

boat tours galway

1. Corrib Princess River Cruise

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2. Give It A Go

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3. Galway Bay Boat Tours

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4. Ireland Wild Escapes

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5. Charter Ireland

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6. Letterfrack Sea Safari Boat Tours

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7. Ireland West Angling

miw356

8. Lough Corrib Adventures

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9. MacMara Marine Ltd.

petekelly54

10. Ribwest boat trip

boat tours galway

11. PowerBoat West

boat tours galway

12. Inishbofin Ferry

13. corrib cruises, what travellers are saying.

PETER C

  • Ireland Wild Escapes
  • Corrib Princess River Cruise
  • Galway Bay Boat Tours
  • PowerBoat West
  • Give It A Go

THE 10 BEST Galway Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in galway.

  • Kayaking & Canoeing
  • Fishing Charters & Tours
  • Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
  • Scuba & Snorkeling
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding
  • Water Sports
  • Dolphin & Whale Watching
  • Speed Boats Tours
  • Swim with Dolphins
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Ireland Wild Escapes
  • The Spanish Arch
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

boat tours galway

1. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

boat tours galway

2. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks

boat tours galway

3. Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway

boat tours galway

4. Lough Corrib History and Scenic Lake Cruise from Lisloughrey Pier Tour

boat tours galway

5. Full-Day Wild Atlantic Galway Guided Tour and Ferry Cruise

boat tours galway

6. Magical Inishbofin Island on the Connemara Coast from Galway including Lunch

boat tours galway

7. Aran islands pub tour from Galway. Inisheer/Inishmore. Guided.

boat tours galway

8. Historic Walk Tour of Galway plus 90min Sightseeing Cruise

boat tours galway

9. Boat cruise with local skipper on Galway Bay. Galway city. 1 hour

boat tours galway

10. Shore Excursion Connemara&Inishbofin self-guided tour from Galway

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

boat tours galway

Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea & Scones - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin

boat tours galway

Clew Bay Cruise, Westport ( 90 minutes )

boat tours galway

Wild Brown trout fly fishing with guide on Lough Corrib, County Galway.

boat tours galway

Deserted Island Private Landing Tour

boat tours galway

Sea Kayaking at Gurteen Beach, Dog's Bay or Inishlacken

boat tours galway

Private Tour Sea Kayaking in Roundstone Bay, Galway

boat tours galway

Connemara & Inishturk Island wildlife watching cruise. Private guided Full-day

boat tours galway

Deep sea angling / fishing on Connemara coast. Guided Full-Day

boat tours galway

Shore Excursion: Day self guided walking Inishbofin Island Connemara coast.

boat tours galway

Private Trip: Connemara Deep Sea Angling Day Trip from Cleggan

boat tours galway

Fly fishing for wild Brown trout on Lough Corrib. Galway. Private Ghillie.

boat tours galway

Lake cruise on Lough Corrib to Inchagoill Island & Cong village from Oughterard.

What travellers are saying.

Rasmus I

  • From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.
  • 2.5 Hour Guided Sea Kayaking in Roundstone Bay
  • Guided Coastal and Island Hopping - Sea Kayaking in Galway
  • Corrib Princess River Cruise
  • Galway Bay Boat Tours
  • PowerBoat West
  • Give It A Go
  • Letterfrack Sea Safari Boat Tours
  • Charter Ireland
  • Outdoors Ireland

The Irish Road Trip

A Guide To The Mighty Killary Fjord In Galway (Boat Tours, Swim + Things To See)

By Author Elisha Donkin

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

A Guide To The Mighty Killary Fjord In Galway (Boat Tours, Swim + Things To See)

A visit to the stunning Killary Fjord is one of the most popular things to do in Galway .

The incredibly beautiful inlet is dramatically surrounded by mountains and forms a natural border between Galway and Mayo.

A fine addition to any Galway Road Trip, the area can be admired from land and water (on one of the Killary boat tours).

In the guide below, you’ll discover everything you need to know about visiting Killary Fjord, including what to do nearby!

Some quick need-to-knows before visiting Killary Fjord

killary fjord galway

Photo by Semmick Photo (Shutterstock)

A visit to Killary Fjord is straightforward- ish  depending on how you want to see it (there are several options to choose from).

1. Location

You’ll find Killary Fjord on the border between Galway and Mayo, which is why you’ll often find it in both guides to Galway and guides to Mayo.

2. How to see it

You can experience this area on one of the very popular Killary Fjord boat tours , by foot on one of the walks, or from afar from one of the many vantage points.

3. The only fjord in Ireland?

You’ll hear some say that Killary Fjord is the only fjord in Ireland, however, others argue that it’s the largest of three: the other two being Lough Swilly (Donegal) and Carlingford Lough (Louth).

About Killary Fjord

visiting Killary Fjord

Photo by Kevin George on Shutterstock

Killary Fjord stretches for 16 kilometres inland to the lovely little village of Leenane , which sits at the head of the fjord (check out the Leenane to Louisburgh drive if you’re visiting).

The area is surrounded by towering mountains, with the highest of Connacht’s mountains, Mweelrea on the northwest shore.

The border of Galway and Mayo Counties runs right through the middle of the inlet, which reaches up to 45 metres deep in the centre.

The area is also known for its seafood, especially mussels and salmon which are farmed in the waters of the harbour. Dolphins also frequent the waters, especially around the small island towards the mouth of the fjord.

Killary Fjord Boat Tours

Killary Fjord boat tours

Photo by Kit Leong on Shutterstock

One of the best ways to appreciate the scenery around the fjord is by taking one of the Killary Fjord boat tours out on the water.

The Killary Fjord boat tours start at Nancy’s Point which is just west of Leenane village ( info on the tours here ).

From there the boats set off for the mouth of the harbour. On the tours you can enjoy the panoramic views of the scenery, the seafood farms out in the water and the small island where dolphins often congregate.

When the tours run

The Killary Fjord Boat Tours generally run from April until October. They have two departures per day during these months, 12.30pm and 2.30pm. From May until August, they also have an additional sailing time of 10.30am.

How much they cost

You can purchase tickets either online or at the kiosk. Prices are cheaper if pre-purchased online and are around €21 for adults and €11 for children from 11 to 17 years old. There arealso special prices for families and seniors/students.

Killary Fjord boat tours reviews

The reviews for the Killary Fjord boat tours speak for themselves. At the time of writing, they’ve racked up a 4.5/5 review score on Google from 538 reviews.

On TripAdvisor, they’ve amassed an impressive 4.5/5 from 379 reviews, so you can be pretty confident it’ll be worth heading off on.

The Killary Fjord Swim

For something different, you can try your hand at swimming the fjord. The annual Great Fjord Swim is an open-water swimming event with a range of distances available.

There is a 3.9km route for experienced swimmers, which is a full ironman-distance. There is also a 2km route which begins with a catamaran ride to the start line.

For something shorter, they also have a 750m route which gets you swimming from County Mayo to County Galway. 

The Killary Harbour Walk

Killary Fjord swim

Photo by Radomir Rezny on Shutterstock

Another fantastic way to explore the dramatic landscape around Killary Fjord is on foot. There is a 16km, relatively easy loop that takes in some of the beautiful coastal views on the way.

It takes around six hours with some stops to complete and begins at the junction of the N59 and the road to Bunowen.

From there the walk follows the old famine road to Killary Harbour Youth Hostel, following the incredible coastline.

Then the return journey follows inland roads passing Lough Muck and Lough Fee. If you’re interested in doing this lengthy but rewarding walk, this thorough guide has all the details.

Things to do near Killary Harbour

doo lough valley

Photo by RR Photo on Shutterstock

One of the beauties of Killary Fjord is that it’s a short spin away from a clatter of other attractions, both man-made and natural.

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Killary Fjord (plus places to eat and where to grab a post-adventure pint!).

1. The Leenane to Louisburgh drive

Leenane to Louisburgh drive mayo

Photos via Google maps

The Killary Fjord is a fine starting point for the incredible Leenane to Louisburgh drive . If you read this guide , you’ll see why it’s one of our favourite drives in Ireland.

2. Killary Sheep Farm

Killary Fjord from above

Photo by Anika Km on Shutterstock

This traditional working farm has around 200 ewes and lambs roaming freely in the mountains around Killary Fjord.

You can view skilled sheepdog demonstrations, sheep shearing and bottle feed orphaned lambs. It’s a great place for the whole family, just outside of Bunowen.

3. Aasleagh Falls

sheep shearing

Photo by Bernd Meissner on Shutterstock

Aasleagh Falls on the River Erriff sits just before the water enters into the fjord. The beautiful mountain backdrop to the falls makes it a popular place for walks and picnics. It’s just north of Leenane across the border into County Mayo.

4. Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey Ireland

Photo by Chris Hill

Just south of Killary Fjord on the N59, you’ll find Kylemore Abbey and the Victorian Walled Garden. This beautiful romantic building is worth a self-guided visit, with a pottery studio and tea room to enjoy too.

5. Hundreds of things to do in the Connemara region

connemara national park

Photo by greenphotoKK on Shutterstock

There’s an almost endless number of things to do in Connemara , from walks and hikes, like Diamond Hill , to incredible beaches, like Dog’s Bay in Roundstone .

Here’s some other things to see and do nearby:

  • Explore Connemara National Park
  • Drive the Sky Road in Clifden
  • Visit Inishbofin Island and Omey Island

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Galway City Tours

Why Choose Us?

Diverse selection, value for money, unforgettable experience, fast booking, support team, passionate travel, most popular tours.

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City of the Tribes Medieval Tour

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From Famine to Freedom

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Waterways & Westend Tour

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Please see our flexible refund policy here . All customers will receive a full refund when cancelling a booking 24 hours prior to travel time. Be first to know what's happening on the Aran Islands by signing up to our newsletter .

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ARAN ISLANDS & CLIFFS OF MOHER CRUISE

Ferry to Aran Islands

Call +353 (0) 91 568903 or email info@aranislandferries.com

Sailing year-round to all islands from galway.

The Aran Islands

The Aran Islands offer visitors a glimpse into a way of life that has long since disappeared from most of the world. Filled with traditional Irish culture, the islands offer breath-taking scenery, ecclesiastical ruins and world-renowned stone forts. Depending on which island you visit, the ferry journey is approximately 40-minutes from Rossaveel, Connemara and 90-minutes from Galway City.

The best way to get to the Aran Islands is on our Aran Islands Ferry from Rossaveel, Connemara or Galway City. The fastest ferry from Galway is our sailing from Rossaveel, Connemara to Inis Mór. These three rocky limestone outcrops are a bastion of traditional language, culture, music and history on the edge of Europe. Regular music sessions, lively dances, traditional crafts, sea-going currachs and the wonderfully warm and welcoming Atlantic spirit, are inimitable parts of Aran.

Prepare for a warm Irish welcome onboard our Aran Islands Ferry, and admire the rugged landscape and views of Galway Bay. Passengers can enjoy tea, coffee, snacks and full bar facilities during their 40-minute journey with Aran Island Ferries.

Shuttle bus.

Enjoy the convenience of our daily shuttle bus service, departing from Galway city (Victoria Place)  or travel by car and take a leisurely 1-hour drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to our ferry terminal in Rossaveel.

Ferry Terminal

Ferries to the Aran Islands depart year-round from Rossaveel port in Connemara, 37 kilometres west of Galway City centre. Parking is available at the pier at a cost of €7 for 24 hours. Seasonal ferries also depart from Galway City.

Sign up to our newsletter and learn about upcoming offers and promotions.

For more information on our sailings, please call or visit one of our offices in Galway City or Rossaveel.

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COMMENTS

  1. Galway Bay Boat Tours

    Claddagh and the Galway Hooker. Take our Tour - Feel the Story. The Oliver family are from generations of fishermen, from a time when they sailed Galway Hookers around Galway Bay to fish for a living. Our family home is in Claddagh, on the water's edge. We still tie up our boats at the same quay as our grandfathers and their fathers before them.

  2. THE 10 BEST Galway Boat Rides & Cruises

    2. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks. Awarded 'BEST IRISH EXPERIENCE' and 'Boat Tour of the Year in Ireland 2024', this is the only tour that enables passengers…. 3. Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway.

  3. THE 10 BEST Galway Boat Tours (Updated 2024)

    He is a great tour guide and had lots of interesting facts about Inchagoill Island and Lough Corrib. 9. MacMara Marine Ltd. 1. Boat Tours. By petekelly54. Skipper Colin was great, good personality, very knowledgeable and inspired confidence.... 10. Ribwest boat trip.

  4. Galway Bay Boat Tours

    A sensation like no other, cruising Galway Bay has a rhythm all of its own. Experience the thrill of exploring the very edge of Ireland with our Galway Bay and Aran Island tours. Take in the unspoiled landscape and shores teeming with life along the wild Atlantic coast. Here, you will discover breathtaking views of Gleninagh Castle, Black Head ...

  5. Galway Bay Boat Tours

    52 reviews. #4 of 22 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Galway. Historical & Heritage ToursBoat ToursFishing Charters & ToursNature & Wildlife Tours. Closed now. 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. Galway Bay Boat Tours is a family run business specialising in tailored boat tours on Galway Bay for individuals, families and ...

  6. Galway Bay Boat Tours Galway

    Phone: (+353) 871124232. Email: [email protected]. Galway Bay Boat Tours with ticket prices, times for the boat building experience, Claddagh and docklands walking tours, custom private tours.

  7. Galway Bay Boat Tours

    53.269011, -9.047182. Galway Bay Boat Tours is a family run business specialising in tailored boat tours on Galway Bay for individuals, families and small to medium-sized groups.

  8. Nimmo Tours on Galway Bay

    Nimmo Tours on Galway Bay is an independent and family owned boat charter and tour company providing unique experiences on the waters of Galway Bay. SHE'S A FINE VESSEL. Our Fisher 32ft Angling boat is a P3 licensed vessel who's weathered these wild Irish waters for many a year on fishing expeditions and charter tours alike.

  9. Visit Galway Bay Boat Tours with Discover Ireland

    Discover Galway Bay Boat Tours, Galway City, a family run business organising unique boat trips on scenic Galway Bay. Check out the heritage, maritime and historical tours catering for individuals, families and groups. Experience the magic of Galway Bay Boat Tours, Galway City, where you can choose from walking tours, boat tours, themed ...

  10. Galway Bay Boat Tour

    Boat tour of Galway Bay with local fisherman, Ciaran Oliver, visiting popular and scenic areas such as the Claddagh, Spanish Arch, the Long Walk, Port of Galway and the bay. Insight into Ireland's maritime history. Enjoy the views of Galway City from the sea, and across the bay, the famous UNESCO site of the Burren Co Clare.

  11. The BEST Galway Cruises & boat tours 2024

    7. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise. Take a day trip to the Aran Islands and see the Cliffs of Moher by cruise on this tour awarded the "Best Irish Experience" award by travel2ireland and the ITTN and 'Boat Tour of the Year in Ireland 2024'. Enjoy exploring Inis Mór with an audio guide.

  12. Wild Atlantic Way Full-Day Tour from Galway 2024

    Discover the best of the Wild Atlantic Way with this full-day tour from Galway. Set out on a combination coach and boat tour to see top landmarks in the west of Ireland including the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and Connemara. See the Cliffs of Moher from below during a boat journey, visit the island of Inis Oirr, and back to the mainland ...

  13. THE 10 BEST Galway Boat Tours (Updated 2024)

    5. Charter Ireland. 25. Boat Tours • Boat Hire. By enda2. Luckily the weather was fabulous. Very comfortable to sleep on and Mo made the best sandwiches and Irish breakfast... 6. Letterfrack Sea Safari Boat Tours.

  14. THE 10 BEST Galway Boat Rides & Cruises

    3. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks. 123. Full-day Tours. 6+ hours. Awarded 'BEST IRISH EXPERIENCE' and 'Boat Tour of the Year in Ireland 2024', this is the only tour that enables passengers…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 90% of travellers. from.

  15. Killary Fjord: A Locals Guide (Boat Tours, Walks + Tips)

    A Guide To The Mighty Killary Fjord In Galway (Boat Tours, Swim + Things To See) By Author Elisha Donkin. Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024. ... Killary Fjord boat tours reviews. The reviews for the Killary Fjord boat tours speak for themselves. At the time of writing, they've racked up a 4.5/5 review score on Google from 538 reviews. ...

  16. Corrib Princess

    The Corrib Princess is a luxury cruise boat departing from Galway City Centre on the Wild Atlantic Way. We offer daily guided sightseeing trips, private evening cruises with dinner and entertainment. Experience the beautiful Corrib River and lake departing from Galway City Centre. Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Corrib river and ...

  17. Galway City Tours

    Galway City Tours is owned and operated by Shane Spelman, a national badged guide, award winning researcher, & Fellow of The Flanders Field Museum In Ypres. Shane has worked in the tourism and hospitality industry for over twenty years, both at home and abroad. After extensive travelling and employment within the tourism industry in Spain, England & the US, Shane returned to his native City to ...

  18. Aran Island Ferries

    Aran Island Ferries sail to the Aran Islands from Galway City and Rossaveel Ferry Terminal, Connemara, Galway. ... Awarded 'Best Boat Tour in Ireland 2024' View Trip Details and Book Online. Sail year-round to the ... Bike hire and mini-bus tours with a local guide. Kilmurvey Village. An eclectic mix of Irish arts and gift shops. Timetable ...