Most Popular4.7·Cork·6h
Explore Cape Clear island departing Schull. West Cork. Self-guided.
Take a scenic ferry trip to visit Cape Clear Island & experience this Gaeltacht island’s culture &...
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1 / 6Explore Cape Clear Island Departing Schull. West Cork. Self-guided.
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Cork, IrelandArts & CultureAdventure ToursBirdwatchingDay Trips & ExcursionsCultural Tours
About this activity
Travel by ferry across Roaring Water Bay to Ireland's southernmost island, Cape Clear, a Gaeltacht-speaking community 6 miles off the West Cork coast. This 6-hour self-guided excursion combines dramatic seascapes, wildlife spotting, and cultural immersion on an island shaped by 5,000 years of human settlement.
Join this tour from either Schull or Baltimore with a crossing on the ferry through the beautiful waters of Roaring Water Bay. Feel the fresh sea air against your face on this spectacular journey through some of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, some of which are habited.
Cape Clear or Cléire is the largest of these Islands and is known as the Queen of Carbery’s hundred Isles and lies 6 miles from the mainland in West Cork along the Wild Atlantic Way. Cape Clear is Ireland’s most southerly Island, it has a population of 130 people and is one of the few Gaeltacht speaking (Irish speaking) Islands in Ireland.
As we meander our way to Cape Clear witness some spectacular scenery and marine wildlife along the way. Our experienced crew are always scanning these prime waters for whales and dolphins as a glimpse of these magnificent creatures are what dreams are made of!
Arrive in the wonderful north harbour on Cape Clear Island, where a shuttle bus service is provided from the harbour to Cape Clear heritage centre, where you can explore the history of both the Island and the interactive Fastnet Display about the Fastnet Rock itself.
People have been coming to Cape Clear island for over 5000 years. This wild and romantic Island offers visitors an insight into a way of life that has long since disappeared from most of Ireland. The island offers the visitor superb marked walking trails, kayaking adventures, a goat farm, a heritage centre, Ireland’s only manned bird observatory, electric buses and is the gateway to the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, which stands 159 feet high in the Atlantic Ocean.
On the way back to the harbour we stop along the way to visit the memorial on the Island to the 1979 Fastnet yacht race disaster. During the disaster 15 yachtsmen and 3 rescuers died in the deadliest storm in the history of modern sailing, which swept its way through the fleet on the 615 mile dash from England to Ireland and back again. On the 13–14 August 1979, of the 306 yachts taking part, 5 were sunk, 100 suffered knock downs, and 77 rolled at least once due to high winds and "mountainous seas".
Then spend some free time exploring this wonderful island where you can see the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse in the distance from one of the spectacular look out points on the walking trials, or enjoy some fresh Island produce during lunch at one of the island’s bars and restaurants.
Optional extras at an additional cost include:
1. A guided walk & talk with an islander (Approx. 2 hours) Max 20 people
After a scenic ferry transfer to the Island, your local guide will bring you on a walk where you can gain insights into island stories and enjoy spectacular Island scenery. Visit the Goat farm and hear its owner Ed Harper, perform one of his renowned ballads.
The walk can be replaced by the Island’s Electric Buses for those less mobile.
2. A traditional Irish music session (Approx. 2 hours) Max 50 people
Meet local musicians for a traditional music session in Club Cléire. Learn a song ‘as Gaeilge’ (in Irish) or a dance and discover the hidden talents of your friends as everyone joins in.
3. Traditional afternoon tea at a local B&B
Meet with Tríona, island B&B owner and sit down for a beautiful afternoon showcasing what the Island has to offer from homemade scones, sandwiches, cakes, pastries, macaroons and mini desserts, all baked by Tríona, complimented by a traditional cup of tea and of course the spoken Irish language.
4. A kayaking session (Approx. 2 hours) Max 15 people
Experience the sheltered South Harbour to explore its inlets, caves and sea arch in a family friendly sheltered bay
Our passengers get a real treat as we offer different inward and outward ferry routes. This gives amazing views of the high cliffs and rugged landscape on the harsh Atlantic side of the islands compared to gentle sloping hills that touch the water on the opposite side.
- Departure times from Baltimore are 10.30am & 2pm returning @ 12 noon, 4pm & 6pm.
- Departure times from Schull are 11.30am returning @ 4pm.
- For groups of 30 or more we can arrange private departures to the Island at a time that suits.
- Passengers can start their journey in Baltimore and finish in Schull. So Baltimore-Cape-Schull or Schull-Cape-Baltimore.
- Toilet facilities on board.
- Upper deck and indoor heated seating on board.
- Please note a minimum number of 15 people is required for this tour to proceed
Highlights
- ✓Ferry crossing through Carbery's Hundred Isles with potential whale and dolphin sightings
- ✓Cape Clear Heritage Centre with interactive Fastnet Rock exhibition
- ✓Marked walking trails across wild, windswept terrain
- ✓Ireland's only manned bird observatory for serious birders
- ✓Authentic Gaeltacht island life with 130-person population
- ✓Electric bus shuttle from harbour to heritage facilities
Insider tips
- ★Crew actively scan for marine mammals—bring binoculars and position yourself on deck early for best viewing
- ★Island is Irish-speaking; combine heritage centre visit with marked trails to experience authentic island culture without rushing
- ★Winds can be brisk on the crossing; layer clothing and avoid loose items on the ferry deck
- ★Check tide times before arrival to maximise walking and kayaking opportunities
Good to know
- •Self-guided format—no organized activities beyond shuttle to heritage centre; plan your own itinerary
- •Depart from either Schull or Baltimore; confirm ferry departure point and times when booking
- •Heritage centre is main tourist hub; other activities (kayaking, goat farm, bird observatory) are independently arranged on arrival
- •Bring sturdy walking shoes, weatherproof jacket, and sun protection for exposed island terrain
- •Limited accommodation and dining; this is a day trip; some facilities may be seasonal
Who it's for
Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking marine mammal encountersCultural travellers interested in Irish-speaking communities and island heritageActive walkers and outdoor adventurers looking for rugged, self-paced explorationPhotography and nature lovers seeking dramatic coastal scenery
Best time to visit
Visit May–September for calmer seas, active wildlife, and accessible walking trails. Early morning or late afternoon crossings offer best light for seabird spotting and photography; avoid peak tourist season mid-July to August for a quieter island experience.
Frequently asked questions
From
€55
per person
