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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. 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 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.

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

The Irish Road Trip

How To Get The Ferry To The Aran Islands From Galway City

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

How To Get The Ferry To The Aran Islands From Galway City

Getting the ferry to the Aran Islands from Galway City is nice and straight forward.

The first options is to take the Rossaveel Ferry, which is around around a 45-minute drive from Galway City.

The second option is to take the relatively new ferry from the docks in Galway to the Aran Islands. Read on for the details.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about the ferry to the Aran Islands from Galway City

Aran Island Transport

Photos via Shutterstock

Although getting the the ferry to the Aran Islands from Galway City is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. They leave from the city, Connemara and Doolin

The handiest option to get from Galway to the Aran Islands is to take the seasonal ferry from the city’s docks. The other option involve driving a bit of a distance and then getting a ferry from either Rossaveel (Connemara). Info below.

2. You need to be very clear about what’s involved

There are a number of different routes and types of services that sail from County Galway to the Aran Islands. For example, it’s possible to book direct sailings to any one of the islands and back or one-way tickets. Some sailings also include a scenic tour of the Cliffs of Moher on the way back.

3. How long it takes

The duration of the sailing varies depending on where you’re departing from and which island you’re sailing to, as well as other things like tours. Inis Mor is the closest to the Galway coast and is the quickest route. From Galway City, the journey takes around an hour and a half, or between 30 and 40 minutes from Rossaveal.

4. Passengers only

Bear in mind that all of the ferry services in this guide are for foot traffic only and there are no regular car ferries. That’s no problem to be fair. All three islands are small enough to explore on foot or by bike.

5. You can also fly

Yes, you can fly from the Aran Islands to Galway and vice versa. Flights depart and arrive at Connemara Airport and they leave nice and frequently. Just make sure to book in advance.

Option 1: The Aran Islands from Galway City ferry

Dún Aonghasa

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Galway , the ferry from the city’s docks across to Inis Mor is well-worth considering.

This tour (affiliate link) lasts 8.5 hours in total and has excellent reviews online. Here’s a rough outline of what’s involved:

  • Leave Galway City and sail across to Inis Mor
  • Spend 4.5 hours on the island seeing Dun Aonghasa , the Worm Hole and more
  • The return journey takes you past the Cliffs of Moher

Option 2: The Aran Islands from Galway’s Rossaveel

Inis Oirr

The second option is to take one of the ferries from Rossaveel, around a 45-minute drive from Galway City.

This option will suit those of you staying in one of the various Connemara hotels. You can sail to any of the three Aran Islands from Rossaveel. Here’s three tours to check out (affiliate links):

  • Inis Meain from Galway
  • Inis Mor from Galway
  • Inis Oirr from Galway

FAQs about how to get to the Aran Islands from Galway

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Which boat to the Aran Islands is the best?’ to ‘When do they leave?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

How long is the ferry ride from Galway to Aran Islands?

This will depend on which of the islands you’re visiting, but it can take around 40-minutes from Rossaveel and 1.5 hours from Galway City.

Is there a direct ferry from Galway to Aran Islands?

Yes. A ferry leaves from the docks in Galway to the Aran Islands (Inis Mor) during the tourist season. This is a great option for those staying in Galway City Centre.

galway boat trip aran islands

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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PlanetWare.com

From Galway to the Aran Islands: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jan 31, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

While the Aran Islands might seem a little out of the way, they're actually surprisingly easy to get to from a number of destinations on Ireland's spectacular west coast - especially if you're traveling here from the city of Galway.

A trip to these rugged Atlantic islands, rated as one of the country's top places to visit , is a little like taking a step back in time. Gaelic is the language most commonly spoken by the 12,000 residents who live on the three islands - named Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer - and traditional Irish customs are very much in evidence.

Traveling from Galway to the Aran Islands certainly adds to the adventure of exploring this beautiful corner of Ireland. It does, however, require a little more planning than most excursions, especially if you're on a tighter schedule. And, of course, the more you want to see, the longer you'll want to visit, making an overnight stay at one of the guesthouses, inns, or bed and breakfasts on the islands an attractive option.

The good news is that there are a number of options to check into for those determined to add the Aran Islands into their Ireland travel itinerary. These include traveling to the ports that service the islands by car or bus to hop aboard a ferry or charter boat; taking a flight; or, for the truly adventurous, even using one of the excellent hiking or biking routes available.

However you choose to get there, you won't be disappointed if you've added a day trip from Galway to the Islands of Aran to your Ireland travel itinerary.

On This Page:

  • From Galway to the Aran Islands by Tour
  • From Galway to the Aran Islands by Ferry
  • From Galway to the Aran Islands by Plane
  • From Galway to the Aran Islands by Bike or Hike

1. From Galway to the Aran Islands by Tour

The scenic cliffs of Inishmore, Aran Islands

A good way to ensure a hassle-free day trip from Galway to the Aran Islands is to sign up for an organized tour. A popular option for many is a tour that takes in both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher by cruise .

This full-day guided tour sets off from downtown Galway, departing from the Kinlay Hostel at 9am and traveling along the spectacular coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way. Along the way, you'll pass through a number of attractive (and extremely photo-worthy) fishing villages. The services of a professional guide are also included, who'll provide live commentary (and answer any questions) pertaining to the many sights you'll see.

It's at Doolin – only 1.5 hours away from Galway – that you'll board the ferry to the Aran Islands. It's a pleasant journey of around 30 minutes, with passengers disembarking at Inisheer, the smallest (and closest) of the three islands.

After spending free time exploring on your own, you'll re-join the ferry for a trip along the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Considered to be one of the most romantic vistas in Ireland, it's the perfect backdrop for a selfie with your significant other. You'll also have the chance to explore the cliffs from above after your return to Doolin.

The sightseeing continues on the return journey to Galway, with stops at Burren National Park and Lisdoonvarna. Included with your tour are the services of local guides and the round-trip ferry. At the end of the day, you'll be dropped off at the original pickup point in downtown Galway.

2. From Galway to the Aran Islands by Ferry

Ferry departing Doolin for the Aran Islands

For those who prefer to make their own arrangements, there are two ferry routes available for those traveling from Galway to the Islands of Aran. The most popular is the ferry from Doolin. A scenic 1.5-hour drive from Galway, and a little longer if traveling by bus, Doolin is itself a destination that's worth exploring and has the added benefit of being located a short distance from the spectacular Cliffs of Moher.

Operators along this route include Doolin Ferry Co , and Doolin2Aran Ferries , both of which offer daily services from March to October to each of the three islands. In addition to their regular ferry services, both companies offer dedicated cruises, taking in popular sightseeing spots such as the Cliffs of Moher. Journey times take between 15 minutes to 35 minutes, depending on which island you're traveling to.

If traveling by car, there's plenty of safe parking in Doolin in which to leave your vehicle. And if not by car, you can get to Doolin by bus from Galway . While it's a picturesque journey, it is, however, a little slow; expect to spend around two hours on the road each way, with plenty of stops and connections to be made.

Another option is taking a train to Ennis. Irish Rail offers plenty of coverage for this 30-minute journey, with buses available to take you the next leg of the journey to Doolin.

Another ferry departure point is Rossaveal , located 45 minutes' drive west of Galway. Aran Island Ferries operate from this modern facility year-round. For those without a car, a handy shuttle bus service operates from Galway and arrives in plenty of time to catch your ferry (allow around an hour for this trip).

3. From Galway to the Aran Islands by Plane

Aerial view of Inisheer Island, Aran Islands

For those who enjoy flying, it is possible to get to the Aran Islands from Galway by airplane. The route from Connemara Regional Airport in Inverin - a 27-kilometer drive from downtown Galway - is served by Aer Arann , a local business that also offers flights to Dublin, as well as further afield, including London.

All three islands are serviced by Aer Arann, and flights are short (just 10 minutes). During the busier times of year, flights depart hourly. In addition to its speedy travel times, travelers will also be rewarded by incredible views over the islands and the spectacular Galway coast. If you can afford it, consider chartering a flight for an extended trip over the Cliffs of Moher.

4. From Galway to the Aran Islands by Bike or Hike

Two bikes near a sandy beach on Inishmore Island, Aran Islands

For those not averse to a little exercise, why not bike (or walk) from Galway to Doolin to catch your ferry? The journey along the Wild Atlantic Way is considered one of the world's top cycling routes and takes in plenty of breathtaking scenery along the way.

Bikes can be rented in Galway, and can be taken aboard the ferries. The same route is also very walkable, but will take a long day of hiking to get you there.

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Aran Island Boat Trip

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The Aran Islands are a groups of three Islands located in Galway Bay. These Islands are one of Ireland’s remaining groups of Irish speaking areas known as ‘The Gaeltacht’.

Aran Island Ferries from Doolin operate from March to October.

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Aran Islands Boat Tour

Dun Aengus on Inishmore from Doolin Ferries

Our most popular ferry trip is the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher combination trip. Pick your choice of any Aran Island visit and then take the Cliffs of Moher Boat Tour on the way back to Doolin.

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Aran Islands by Boat

When visiting these wonderful Islands you can take in Irish history, culture, and wildlife.

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Wanderlust & Life

Getting from Galway to the Aran Islands – everything you need to know for a perfect day trip

If you like horse drawn carts and feeling like you have stepped back into another time then you simply must visit the Aran Islands. Located in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way , the Aran Islands, are one of the most incredible sights in Ireland, and the good news is they aren’t swarming with tourists either. So if you are looking for an authentically Irish experience then make sure you plan a visit.

There are a few different parts of Ireland you can leave from to reach the islands, but in this post we tell you everything you need to know about getting from Galway to the Aran Islands. On top of that we go through the best things to do when you get there, provide you with an Aran Islands Map, and give you top tips for planning the perfect Aran Islands day trip.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

From Galway to the Aran Islands – Before you go

Where to start on your aran islands day trip, from galway to the aran islands, from doolin to the aran islands, flying to the aran islands, getting from galway to the aran islands – rosaveel, galway to the aran islands – by ferry, galway to the aran islands – ferry travel times and tips, how to get around on your aran islands day trip, dún aonghasa, the wormhole, na seacht teampaill (the seven churches), explore the coastline, visit the seal colony, things to do on inishmore – eating and drinking, how much money do i need for my aran islands day trip, best time of year to plan an aran islands day trip, want more than just an aran islands day trip where to stay, aran islands map, tips for visiting the aran islands, so should i plan an aran islands day trip.

Before you start planning your trip from Galway to the Aran Islands here is a bit of a factsheet with some basic information.

Country : Ireland

Language(s) spoken: Irish Gaelic and English

Currency: Euro

Population: Approximately 1200

The Aran Islands consist of 3 islands that essentially sit in the mouth of Galway Bay. They are famous for having ancient sites, and for being on of the few remaining parts of Ireland that primarily speak Irish. The three islands are Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer, with Inishmore being the largest of the group.

For more information and other ideas for things to do in Ireland you can read this post.

And if you are wondering if Ireland is worth visiting this is a handy post.

So you might be wondering how on earth you get to the Aran islands, and where to start your Aran Islands day trip from? From mainland Ireland you can get the ferry over to the Aran islands from either Rossaveal near Galway or Doolin which is quite close to the Cliffs of Moher. Here is a bit of information on each option.

If you are travelling from Galway to the Aran Islands, then you will need to make your way to Rosaveel which is just under an hour away from the centre of Galway. From Rosaveel you then need to hop on a ferry that will take you to Inis Mór (or Inishmore if you are anglicising it).

If you travel via Aran Islands Ferries , you should be able to book a visit to any of the islands, although Inishmore is the more popular of the three. Ferries depart from Rosaveel year round.

If you are travelling between March and October, then you can get a ferry from Doolin to the Aran Islands. Inisheer is the closest island from Doolin, but again you can visit all 3 islands from here.

If for whatever reason you decide you don’t want to get the ferry over, then you can opt to fly to the Aran Islands. You need to travel with Aer Arann Islands, and flights leave from Connemara Airport. The airport is around a 40 minute drive from Galway.

This post predominately focuses on getting from Galway to the Aran Islands, so our main focus will be getting the ferry over from Rossaveel.

Obviously your first step to getting from Galway to the Aran Islands will be to make your way to Rossaveel. If you book your trip through Aran Island Ferries, you can include a connecting shuttle bus transfer. The bus departs from Queen Street in the City Centre. You could also go with Bus Eireann. Route 424 provides a regular service from Galway.

If you have your own car (although keep in mind you will not be able to take this to the Aran Islands), you just follow the R336 road, west towards Rossaveel. You are looking at about a 50 minute drive each way.

Once you are in Rossaveel, you then need to get on a ferry to your chosen island. We chose to visit Inishmore which as mentioned above is one of the biggest and most popular of the Aran Islands. You can pre-book your ferry ticket here for Inishmore or here for Inish Oirr .

There are also a few day trips you can book like this one that takes you from Galway to the Aran Islands (Inis Oirr) and includes a Cliffs of Moher cruise .

Or this one that takes you from Galway to the Aran Islands (Inisheer Island) and the Cliffs of Moher cruise .

Inishmore is the closest of the Aran islands to Galway, so it will probably take you around 40 minutes on the ferry to get here. For the other islands, you are probably looking at around an hour and ten minutes. Although if you are visiting these other islands, you might be closer leaving from Doolin.

Our experience on the ferry was an interesting one. Admittedly the ferry ride is not all smooth sailing, especially on the day we travelled, and we started to realise why it is called the WILD Atlantic Way. It can get pretty choppy out there, and I’m pretty confident that both Dave and I turned an unhealthy shade of green part way through.

For this reason we highly recommend taking a seasickness tablet. I’m usually fine on boats but this was a little bit too much even for me. That being said we have been told that we visited on an unusually choppy day.

If you aren’t feeling sick you can buy things like tea, coffee, and snacks on board the boat. Obviously we decided not to avail of this, but it’s always good to know.

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Once you have docked in Inishmore your next question is going to be how to get around on your Aran Islands day trip? There are a number of ways to see Inishmore including travelling by bike, pony and trap, or just a good old fashioned bus tour.

Inishmore is a big enough island, that you won’t be able to do a day trip and see everything by walking, so you will need to arrange some sort of mode of transport. Initially we wanted to cycle, but we were a bit put off by the wind and rain as we arrived. But if this is your preferred option you can very easily rent a bike for the day and cycle around the island.

Close to where the ferries come in you will see Aran Islands Bike Hire . You can choose from a range of bikes like your standard mountain bike, or even a tandem bike if you want something a little different. You are looking at about €20 for standard mountain bike hire, which is a great deal really.

I’m not a fan of the whole horse and trap thing, so will skip over that option for now, but the other way to get yourself around the island is to book an organised tour. Don’t worry if you haven’t booked something in advance because when your ferry docks, you will be greeted by several small tour buses. We found one, paid the fee, and off we went.

Tours range in price but you can expect to pay somewhere between €15 – €20 per person. Also we recommend asking for Martin Mullen. I don’t know if he is still doing tours, but honestly we visited the islands a few years ago and I still think about his tour. He knows everyone on the island and gives you some fantastic insight into life here. He also had the whole bus in stitches at times too.

Things to do on Inishmore – top attractions

Now that we have gone through how to get from Galway to the Aran Islands, here are some of the best things to see and do in Inishmore.

One of the best things to do on Inishmore has to be visiting Dún Aonghasa. Honestly if you see nothing else on the island, make it this.

Dún Aonghasa is an ancient stone fortress located on a particularly rugged cliff. It is the largest prehistoric stone fortress on the island as well, so definitely worth a visit. When the fort was excavated back in the 1990s, there was evidence that humans inhabited it way back in 1500 BC!

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As mentioned the fort is located very close to a sharp cliff edge. Unlike other places you might visit there are no barriers or fences stopping you from getting too close to the cliffs edge which is really part of the beauty of the place. Just make sure you exercise caution.

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If you carry on eastwards on the cliffs of Dún Aonghasa you will stumble upon The Wormhole. Visiting is now one of the more popular things to do on Inishmore, partly due to its role in the Red Bull Cliff Diving Competition. The Worm Hole is a natural rectangular shaped pool, and when the tide is in water gushes through an underground cave network pushing water up over the edges. The coolest bit about it is that the Wormhole is perfectly rectangular and you would think that someone created this intentionally. But alas this is not the case it is completely natural.

Another of the best things to do on Inishmore has to be visiting Na Seacht Teampaill, the site of a graveyard and ruined church. The ruins date back to the 800’s which is amazing when you think about what this site has seen over the years.

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If you are visiting the Aran Islands in the summer months particularly one of the best things to do is to explore the coastline. It’s actually really interesting seeing how different the coastline is in different parts of the island. For instance you have your sandy beaches which are perfect for swimming or building sandcastles. Kilmurvey Beach is a great beach to go to, as it doesn’t have strong currents so is perfect for a relaxing day.

You also have a more rugged and rocky side to the coastline too. Not only are these parts of the island atmospheric but they are a great reminder of how far from mainland Ireland you really are.

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One of the newer things to do on Inishmore has to be visiting the seal colony. About 10 minutes away from Kilmurvey beach, you may see a number of seals bathing. Obviously there is no guarantee you will see them, but even trying to find them is a lot of fun, and gives you the opportunity to further explore the islands weather beaten landscape.

One of the best things to do on Inishmore (and probably all of Ireland for that matter) is to get yourself to a traditional and cosy pub. The aptly named – The Bar – is a great place to go for a bit of a tipple, particularly as you work up the courage to get back on the boat (although that might just be our excuse).

Another great place is Joe Watty’s Bar , particularly if on your things to do on Inishmore bucket list contains listening to trad music. They serve fresh seafood, and have a fireplace as well, so you can get cosy with a pint after a long days walk.

If you are looking for food, whilst exploring the island, one of our favourite places to eat in Inishmore is the Dun Aengus Cafe. It’s located in a really quaint thatched cottage, and is popular with tourists because of its proximity to the stone fort and cliffs. The soup and bread is honestly incredible and is a nice warm treat especially on a cold windy day on the island.

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Visiting the Aran Islands isn’t necessarily the cheapest but we assure you it is worth it. When planning your Aran Islands day trip you need to factor in the following:

Getting the ferry from Rosaveel will costs around €30 return for a standard adult ticket.

⚓ Shuttle bus transfer

If you are factoring in a shuttle bus transfer a return for an adult will set you back €9.

⚓ Bike Hire/ Tour costs

If you decide to rent a bike on your Aran Islands day trip then this will set you back around €20 per person. This will of course depend on the type of bike you want to rent so this is an average amount.

If you instead wish to do a tour, you are looking at about €15 – €20 per person for this.

⚓ Food & Drink

This again depends on what you want to eat and drink but I would say €20 per person is reasonable.

The summer months are going to be the best for enjoying the full beauty of the Aran Islands. July, and August are your warmest months, but these are also the busiest in terms of tourist footfall.

The winter months as well as November, March and April, tend to be quite rainy. You also have shorter days in terms of sunlight hours so an Aran Islands day trip might not be ideal.

May, June and September are great if you want decent weather, and less tourists.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting is that the weather is quite mild on the islands. In the winter months average temperatures are between 6 and 11 degrees celsius. In the summer months you are looking at between 12 and 18 degrees celsius.

Trying to decide between Cork and Galway ? – Here is a handy guide

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If one day in the Aran Islands just isn’t enough then why not stay overnight. The plus side of an overnight stay is you get to experience the island after all the ferries and day trippers have long departed.

For a weekend break there are a number of different accommodation options on Inishmore. These range from Glamping options a number of B & Bs, and even hotels. One of the best hotels on the island has to be the Aran Islands hotel . Especially if you splash out and opt for one of the sea view chalets.

Here is an Aran Islands map just to give you a bit of perspective on getting from Galway to the Aran Islands.

Here are some of our top tips for planning your Aran Islands day trip.

  • Bring warm clothes including a jumper/ light jacket in summer and a heavy coat and scarf in the winter. The wind can really bring down the temperatures.
  • Wear decent shoes, because you will do a lot of walking.
  • Bring a rain jacket, the weather can be slightly unpredictable.
  • Sailings from Galway to the Aran Islands can be called off due to bad weather so check this in advance.

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Hopefully this guide has armed you with all the information you need to get from Galway to the Aran Islands, but particularly Inishmore. The islands are almost one of the hidden gems of Ireland because a lot of people tend to avoid visiting due to time constraints. Those that do visit however are treated to gorgeous rugged coastline, and are given an insight into the Ireland of yesteryear.

If you found this guide on getting to Galway to the Aran Islands useful please don’t forget to Pin it for later.

Also if you are getting to Galway from Dublin here is a handy guide to help you plan the trip.

Pin this guide for getting to Galway to the Aran Islands, and things to do on Innishmore.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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Welcome on board our Express Ferry service from Doolin to the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher. Less time on the water, more time for you to explore! 15 minutes is all it takes to go direct to Inis Oírr (Inisheer), 25 minutes to Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) and just 35 minutes to Inis Mór (Inishmore). Combine a trip to Aran with a boat tour of the spectacular Cliffs of Moher formed over 300 million years ago and one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.

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Aran Islands Ferry & Cliffs of Moher Tours

Discover the magic of the Aran Islands, enjoy a tour of the spectacular Cliffs of Moher by boat or do a combination Island trip and Cliffs of Moher cruise! Celebrating over 50 years in business!

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View the Cliffs of Moher from sea level to truly appreciate their towering height and majestic beauty! Combine your visit to the Aran Islands with our Cliffs of Moher cruise.  Upon your return to Doolin you can stay on board for our spectacular cruise with live onboard commentary from our experienced crew.  A journey you will be sure to remember! Awarded ‘Best Tourism Experience in Clare 2023’ and ‘Cruise Company of the Year 2022’!

Custom Boat Tours

For the ultimate day out, enjoy a one-of-a-kind, private experience on our  Seafari Tour   ! Enjoy unrivaled, close up views of the majestic Clare coastline onboard our exclusive, private rib with capacity for 8 people. The itinerary can be customised to your every whim so no two journeys onboard are ever the same!

Aran Islands + Cliffs Seafari Private Tour

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Combination Tickets

Spend the day or stay overnight on any Aran Island and upon your return you can stay on board for a spectacular Cliffs of Moher Cruise. This can be added to any Island departure time. This is our best value and most popular ferry ticket.

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Come visit our family run business in Doolin. Liam O’Brien and family are here to greet and welcome you on board. We celebrated our 50th anniversary in business in 2020. We are delighted to have achieved so much for a small business in County Clare.

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The best way to get to the Aran Islands is from Doolin, County Clare. Doolin, Ireland is a beautiful seaside village with amazing scenery in all directions. It’s located close to the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands Ferry, so it’s ideal for a day trip, overnight, or extended stay. It’s just a short hop from Doolin to the Aran Islands with us. There is so much to do nearby, therefore Doolin is one of the best places to visit on the Wild Atlantic Way . The village is located less than one hour from Shannon Airport and 1.5 hours from both Galway and Limerick City Centres.

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What Our Passengers Say ...

Super day out on Inis Oir & amazing views & info of the cliffs on the return.

Maeve Dockrell

Very clean boats and staff were very helpful..would recommend a tour.

Anthony Moran Dublin

Great experience heading over to Inisheer. Couldn't fault them, very fast crossing and extremely helpful with boarding & alighting with bikes etc. Will definitely travel again with them to...

David McNamara

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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!

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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.

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

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Home » Blog3 » Travel Destinations » Europe Destinations » Travel Ireland

Day Trip to the Aran Islands from Galway: A Visit to Inis Mór

galway boat trip aran islands

A trio of islands off of Ireland’s west coast, the Aran Islands harken back to an earlier way of life. These picturesque isles feature windswept cliffs, an abundance of sheep, and green pastures separated by meandering stone fences.

Or, at least that’s how I remember the Aran Islands from when I visited 15 years ago.

In 2007, I spent a couple of magical days on the largest island – Inis Mór (Inishmore). During my visit, I got to explore the stunning prehistoric Dun Aengus fort and experience island life at its finest.

I have fond memories of riding a bicycle on narrow country lanes and drinking Guinness in tiny pubs (where the locals frowned at my tendency to order pints instead of ordering by the glass like a lady).

These are such happy memories, in fact, that I was eager to share the experience with my husband Daniel. So, during our recent visit to Ireland, we booked a day trip to the Aran Islands from Galway.

Would the Inis mor day trip live up to my expectations?

Well, we were about to find out.

galway boat trip aran islands

A pony at pasture in the Aran Islands

Table of Contents

How to Get to the Aran Islands from Galway

Our first order of business was getting to the islands. At the time, we were staying for a few days in the bustling town of Galway – a charming city which seemed to be filled with partying college students.

So we decided to take a ferry for our day trip to the Aran Islands from Galway. The Aran Islands Ferries company operates several boats which travel to each of the islands: Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr.

Since it’s not possible to visit all of the islands in the same day, we next had to choose which one to visit. We settled on Inis Mór because it’s the largest island and features the Dun Aengus stone fort.

The only ferry to Inis Mór used to depart from the nearby city of Rossaveel. Passengers would take a shuttle bus (or drive) for an hour from Galway to the ferry dock. The ferry crossing from Rossaveel takes approximately 40 minutes and departs several times a day.

We decided to take a ferry directly to Inis Mór from Galway , however. This is a new service that is offered only in the summer months. The ferry is 90 minutes long and eliminates the need to take a shuttle bus.

The best part about the new Galway ferry service is that the boat drives by the Cliffs of Moher on the way back!

Another option for traveling to the Aran Islands is the The Doolin Ferry Company . These boats depart from the charming little village of Doolin which is located a few miles from the Cliffs of Moher.

galway boat trip aran islands

How to Get Around on an Aran Islands Day Trip

An important consideration for visiting the Aran Islands is transportation.

I recall from my previous visit that there are no rental cars or taxis on the island. And to be honest, this lack of traffic is one of many reasons why the island is so charming!

But it also adds a level of complexity when you only have four hours to see an entire island.

While I typically enjoy exploring on foot, it’s not feasible to walk across the whole island on a day trip. It’s a 8.3 km (5 mile) journey one-way from the ferry terminal to Dun Aengus on the opposite side. And then additional walking is required to visit the fort and surrounding area.

One of the most popular transportation options is to explore the island by bike . There are several bike rental companies near the ferry terminal to choose from.

The advantage of riding a bike is that you can go at your own speed and see what you want. But there are drawbacks to cycling on the island which I’ll describe later in the article.

You can also hire a trap and pony (horse carriage) to drive you around the island or take a minibus tour . They are all over the place once you arrive on island and can be easily obtained after arrival.

galway boat trip aran islands

Two visitors hike up to the Dun Aengus stone fort from the Dun Aengus visitor center.

Our Experience on an Aran Islands Day Trip from Galway

Daniel and I arrived at the ferry terminal at 9:00 am for our day trip to the Aran Islands from Galway. We had been watching the weather forecast all week and chose what we hoped to be the sunniest day of the week.

Well, it wasn’t to be. Despite the sunny weather forecast, the day started gray and rainy.

We walked to the ferry terminal in a torrential downpour and were completely soaked by the time we arrived (despite our raincoats and umbrellas). All the passengers crammed into a tiny space below deck due to the inclement weather.

Thankfully, the weather soon improved. Before long, the sun was shining and most passengers migrated to the open-air decks above.

Lucky for us, the sunny weather persisted and we enjoyed sunshine for the rest of the day.

So let that be a lesson to you – always be prepared for rain in Ireland no matter what the forecast says! I wish I had brought extra socks because my feet were wet the entire rest of the day.

galway boat trip aran islands

Kilronan village on Inis Mór as viewed from the ferry boat

The Aran Islands Mini Bus Tour

When our ferry arrived in Inis Mor, we found ourselves on a long pier in the Kilronan harbor. A mini bus stood waiting for passengers on right on the end of the ferry  dock.

We weren’t sure what other options would be available after this point, so we decided to go for it. The mini bus tour cost approximately €20 per person and included stops at the island’s major tourist attractions.

Soon we found ourselves driving through Kilronan, a the island’s largest town (which was in fact a very small village). The area was packed with tourists from various ferry boats who spilled out of the stores and clogged the streets.

I was really glad we hadn’t tried to rent bikes because the lines were absolutely insane! We would have spent half the day just waiting to rent a bike and then return it again later.

We passed several horse carriages and other mini buses for hire in this area too. There seemed to be plenty of options for transportation around the island.

galway boat trip aran islands

Aran Sweater Market, one of the shops in Kilronan

Our bus driver was a local guy who regaled us with colorful stories about life on the island. He was a real character who enjoyed making incomprehensible jokes as he sped around from place to place.

The streets were narrow and we had to share the road with tourists on bicycles who weren’t paying attention to their surroundings.

I was continuously surprised that there weren’t any accidents given the mayhem on the road! (Actually our driver did knock over a few parked bikes once but they weren’t damaged and everyone was fine.)

Soon we arrived at Dun Aengus and disembarked. Our driver been been determined to arrive as quickly as possible so we would miss the crowds.

Well, mission accomplished! There was hardly anyone else at the fort when we arrived.

galway boat trip aran islands

Daniel stands in front of our Mini Bus on the Aran Islands

Dun Aengus (Dún Aonghasa)

Dun Aengus is just one of those magical places that you have to experience for yourself.

This pre-historic fort is made of four concentric stone walls that form a semi-circle. These walls are positioned against a towering cliff so as to ward off any potential attacks or invaders.

What’s really amazing about the fort, however, is its age. While no one knows *exactly* how old it is, most historians today believe that the structure dates back to the Bronze Age and the Stone Age .

That’s over 3,000 years old ! Wowza!

Dun Aengus, an ancient stone fort formed of stones in a semi-circle facing a cliff, is the highlight of any day trip to the Aran Islands from Galway!

Dun Aengus (Dún Aonghasa) on perched on the cliff’s edge on Inis Mór

Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting Dun Aengus because accessing it requires a bit of a hike. The trail leading to the fortress is 1.3-miles (2 km) there-and-back.

There are also several flights of stairs to negotiate so it’s not a great place for a stroller either. We saw more than one abandoned along the route to the fort.

The views on the edge of the cliff are totally worth it, however!

Be aware that there is no fence along the cliff’s edge . Take extra care when approaching the cliff edge because there is a 330 feet (100 meter) drop straight to the ocean below!

galway boat trip aran islands

The cliffs at Dun Aengus

Lunch at Teach Nan Phaidi

After hiking up to Dun Aengus, we had worked up quite an appetite. So, Daniel and I stopped at Teach Nan Phaidif for lunch.

Teach Nan Phaidif is a quaint little cottage with a thatched roof that serves up a variety of traditional local dishes. It’s also pretty much the only place serving food on this end of the island.

galway boat trip aran islands

Teach Nan Phaidi restaurant before the lunch rush

The place was packed when we arrived with tourists and mini buses and bikes and carriages all over the place. Given the crowd, I was doubtful that we’d get our food before the bus left for the next stop on the tour.

Well, I shouldn’t have worried. The staff managed to find us a table and feed us a filling lunch with remarkable speed.

galway boat trip aran islands

Daniel is ready for lunch!

Na Seacht dTeampaill (the Seven Churches)

Situated on the western end of Inis Mór, Seven Churches (Na Seacht dTeampaill) is one of Ireland’s oldest pilgrimage sites. The holy buildings in this location were apparently one of Ireland’s most important pilgrimage destinations in the Middle Ages.

Today, the crumbling ruins of two churches can be found on the site, as well as a number of graves – both new and old.

Given the fact that only two churches are located here, one has to wonder why it is called “Seven Churches”? Perhaps it is because seven buildings once stood here? Or maybe it is a reference to the pilgrimage circuit used during medieval times? No one knows for sure.

Regardless, it is a cool place to visit on an Inis Mor day trip.

The crumbling remains of two stone churches are located in a graveyard

The Seal Colony

On our return visit to Kilronan, we took the coastal road which traces the north shore of the island. This route provides nice views of the sea as well as the mainland in the distance.

It is also an extremely popular route with cyclists. There were even more bikes on this route than on the central road.

About halfway between Kilmurvey beach and Kilronan, we stopped at a scenic viewpoint. This is the location of the island’s resident seal colony.

Or at least, this is where the seals usually hang out. We only saw a few heads bobbing in the water on our visit. Apparently there can be quite a few seals hanging out here and bathing if the tide is favorable.

A lovely pond is also located nearby that is filled wild swans and various other birds.

galway boat trip aran islands

The seal colony viewpoint didn’t have many seals during our trip. But it was still a lovely place to visit!

Boat Tour of the Cliffs of Moher

At the conclusion of our minibus tour, Daniel and I headed straight back to the ferry boat. We wanted to get a good seat on the deck for the return trip and the Cliffs of Moher!

Most of the Aran Island ferries don’t normally go by the cliffs so I was excited to find one that did. It added an extra 30 minutes to our return trip but I didn’t mind.

Thankfully, the sunny weather held and we had a lovely boat ride to the cliffs and all the way back to Galway.

galway boat trip aran islands

Cliffs of Moher as viewed from the ferry boat

As promised, the boat drove up to the famous Cliffs of Moher and slowly passed them by.  An audio narration informed us that the cliffs were used as a filming location in several movies including Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Leap Year and The Princess Bride .

I perked up at the mention of The Princess Bride because it was one of my absolute favorite movies as a kid. I think I’ve seen that movie at least 100 times.

Remember the infamous and inconceivable Cliffs of Insanity ? That’s the Cliffs of Moher!

To be honest, it was hard to get a good photo of the cliffs from the ferry boat as we didn’t get very close. I took a bus to the Cliffs Moher on a different day and got a better photo from the top of the cliffs.

galway boat trip aran islands

Cliffs of Moher as viewed from the cliffs

Is a Day Trip to the Aran Islands from Galway Worth it?

So, did my day trip to the Aran Islands from Galway live up to my expectations?

Well, yes and no.

The island is just as lovely as I remembered it with windswept rolling hills and endless stone fences. It’s such a beautiful place and really encapsulates that feeling of a romantic Irish landscape with a simpler way of life.

But while the island hasn’t changed much in 15 years, the number of visitors has. The place was just packed with so many tourists that it made it difficult to feel the magic of the place.

So, like any place that suffers from over-tourism, come up with a game plan first.

Consider visiting in the off season. Or even better, stay for a few days. That way you can enjoy the island in the morning and evening when the day-trippers are gone.

Other Things to See on an Inis Mor Day Trip

If you have more time to spend on the Aran Islands, consider adding these locations to your Inis Mór itinerary!

  • The Wormhole   – a naturally-formed pool in the shape of a perfect rectangle (and the location of the Red Bull diving series)
  • Ancient Forts – there are 3 other forts on the island to explore, including Dún Dúchathair ( the Black fort ) as well as Dún Eochla and Dún Eoghanachta
  • Kilmurvey Beach – a lovely sandy beach not far from Dun Aengus that is great for swimming

If you’re looking for other gorgeous Irish locations, consider planning a Donegal day trip or a ramble along the Howth Cliff Walk !

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Kilmurvey Beach

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Hi, i'm unicorn.

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I am an avid hiker, traveler, and adventurer who is on the mission to explore hiking trails around the world.  I’m also obsessed with National Parks, long-distance trails and other outdoorsy things.

I hope to share this knowledge with you and inspire you to explore new hiking trails too!

You may also like… Gap of Dunloe Walk: The Ultimate Hiking Guide

How to Take the Galway to Doolin Bus for the Spectacular Doolin Cliff Walk

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Gerry Hassan

Really enjoyed your account of your day on Aran Mor. My wife and I are going to Galway in October and plan to visit the island. Your account has given me much food for thought about how to get the best out of the day.

Unicorn

I’m so glad you enjoyed the article! The Aran Islands are such a lovely place. Have an amazing time! I’m guessing there will be fewer tourists in October since you are visiting in the shoulder season.

Krista

Wow those cliffs are seriously impressive! I haven’t seen rock formations like that before. I’d love to go on a tour here and learn more about the island’s history.

Vanessa Shields

Inis Mor looks so charming and a great getaway! I like that you can see it in a day but it looks so peaceful that I might want to stay for a few days. The fort and views of the cliffs near there are gorgeous! I’ve had the same experience, places I went years ago are now so crowded. Makes me wish I had appreciated those first visits more! Haha.

Yes I agree! So many destinations are so crowded these days. It’s good to go with a plan to a strategy to try and avoid the crowds as much as possible.

Zoe

Lovely post and photos. Its inspiring to add the Aran Islands to my travel list 🙂

Kelli Lovett

Trap and pony feels like a fitting way to get around for some reason!

I want to hear from you! Leave your comment below: Cancel reply

Islands of Galway

Aran Island Tours

Best tours to the aran islands from galway ⛴.

With full-day excursions from Galway, most will take in both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher in a single day trip. Your guided tour will bring you along the Wild Atlantic Way south of Galway passing through charming towns like Ballindereen, Clarenbridge, Kilcolgan and Kinvara. You then take the ferry from Doolin, a beautiful small fishing village to one of the Aran Islands (Inisheer, Inis Meain or Inis Mór), where you’ll spend your day exploring all the interesting attractions the island has to offer.

All day trips to the Aran Islands

A visit to the world famous cliffs of moher 📸.

The ferry will then take you back to Doolin, passing under the towering Cliffs of Moher on the way. Visit the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking vistas, then continue on to the Burren and Lisdoonvarna on your way back to Galway. Tours departing from Galway allow you to see two of Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks in a single day: the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher. Tickets to the attractions are usually included in the ticket price.

Also included This Trip includes visits to Dunguaire Castle and Aillwee Cave, two lesser-known attractions, which you’ll see on this tour that extends beyond the average day tour.

  • Round-trip ferry trip
  • Guided commentary onboard
  • Local Guide
  • Food and drink
  • Hotel Pickup From/To Your Hotel
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

FAQs about Tours to the Aran Islands

How much time do you need in aran islands, how long is the ferry to the aran islands, what is the best of the aran islands, how long does it take to walk around inis mór.

It would take a day or two of walking to explore all the major attractions on Inishmore island. Generally most visitors rent a bike which makes it easy to see all the main attractions in about 5 hours.

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Aran Sea Tours

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Inishmore Aran Islands Co. Galway Ireland 53.11781 N - 9.66671 W

Welcome aboard, come and visit inis mór with aran sea tours. , explore inis mór from a new perspective.

Aran sea tours gives you the opportunity of experiencing the beauty of the Aran Islands in a completely new and unique way.

Whether you're looking for some Deep sea fishing , Scubadiving trips, Island hopping, or a bit of sightseeing , Aran sea tours offers it all. 

We can tailor your charter to suit you needs, so get in touch and book our 3 hour or 7 hour trips!

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Our skipper Niall has a wealth of knowledge at his disposal when it comes to the sea. Whether you experience this adventure with friends or family, you are sure to have a great time and an adventure you won't forget! Having the entire boat to yourselves for the entirety of the trip also helps make it that little bit more special.

Create memories that will last a lifetime.

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' class=

Everyone was so helpful with my initial questions. Our april trip is right around the corner. Have arranged most of the details, have not purchased all the tickets yet. I would love some feedback regarding a day trip to the Aran Islands.

4/4 fly into Dublin - bus service from Dublin airport to Galway (have not booked tickets for the bus service yet- how far in advance is best? what if our flights are late?)

4 nights in Galway, reservations at the parkhotel

4/5 day trip to cliffs of Moher and the Burren (with a private driver)

4/6 ferry to Aran Islands:

thinking to take the ferry from Rossveel or possibly Galway

would love the locals thoughts regarding the boat ride?

longer boat ride direct from Galway or shorter boat ride from Rossveel?

Also which of the islands is best for a day trip?

4/7 day trip to Conemara, tour with company or private tour, have not decided

4/8 train to Dublin (also have not purchased the tickets, how far in advance should these be purchased?)

(3) nights in Dublin (reservations at Kilronan Houe

4/9 Dublin sights

4/10 day trip to Howth

4/11 flights back to US (from Dublin)

Thank you for your thoughts

' class=

We took the ferry out of Rossaveel on a Friday (it was May 13, 2022 to be exact). We bought tickets I think just a day or two before and our lovely B&B owner was able to print them out (we needed the printout per the instructions that were in the email confirmation).

It was an easy trip, relatively short. However, if you are at all prone to seasickness, make sure you grab a window seat and consider taking some motion sickness meds starting the evening before, as I recall it was a touch rocky on the way back. (I’m pretty sensitive!)

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galway boat trip aran islands

comscore

Fishermen rescued off Aran Islands after boat runs aground

All five crew well after coastguard helicopter winched them to safety.

galway boat trip aran islands

The fishermen were winched to safety by the helicopter crew. File photograph: Eric Luke

The crew of a fishing boat were rescued after their vessel got into difficulties off the Aran Islands on Sunday.

The rescue mission was put into effect when the 21-metre boat, with five crew on board, ran aground on the northern side of Inis Mór early on Sunday morning.

Valentia Coast Guard received an emergency call from the vessel at about 5am and the Shannon-based Coast Guard helicopter 115, the RLNI Aran Islands lifeboat and the North Aran Coast Guard Unit were all sent to the scene.

The crew abandoned their vessel, got into a life raft, and were winched to safety by the helicopter. They were taken to University Hospital Galway where all were said to be well.

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galway boat trip aran islands

Five people rescued and taken to hospital after fishing boat runs aground on Aran Islands

FIVE PEOPLE HAVE been rescued after a fishing boat ran aground on one of the Aran Islands off the coast of Co Galway. 

Shortly before 5am this morning, Valentia Coast Guard received an emergency call from a 21-metre fishing vessel reporting that it was aground on the northern side of Inis Mór.

Shannon-based Coast Guard Helicopter R115, Aran Islands lifeboat, and North Aran Coast Guard Unit were all tasked to the scene.

All five crew initially abandoned the vessel into a life raft.

They were subsequently winched to safety by R115 with the Aran Islands life boat standing by. The five crew members were then transferred to University Hospital Galway by R115.

They were all reported to be in good spirits after their ordeal, a statement from the Coast Guard said. 

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galway boat trip aran islands

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  21. one week in April_itineray update_more advice

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  22. Fishermen rescued off Aran Islands after boat runs aground

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  23. Five people rescued and taken to hospital after fishing boat runs

    They were subsequently winched to safety by R115 with the Aran Islands life boat standing by. The five crew members were then transferred to University Hospital Galway by R115.