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Explore Cape Clear Island Departing Baltimore. West Cork. Self-Guided.
Take a scenic ferry trip to visit Cape Clear Island & experience this Gaeltacht island’s culture &...
From€54.63
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1 / 6Fastnet Rock Lighthouse & Cape Clear Island tour departing Schull. West Cork. Self-guided.
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Cork, IrelandArts & CultureBirdwatchingBus & Minivan ToursCultural ToursWhale Watching
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About this activity
Embark on a 6-hour maritime adventure from Schull combining a self-guided exploration of Cape Clear Island—Ireland's southernmost inhabited island and official Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region)—with a scenic boat circumnavigation of Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, the iconic 'Teardrop of Ireland' and the last sight of home for generations of emigrating Irish. Spot marine wildlife including whales and dolphins while discovering standing stones, medieval castles, and poignant historical landmarks.
Join this tour from Schull harbour leaving at 11h30 with a crossing on the ferry through the beautiful waters of Roaring Water Bay and arrive in the wonderful north harbour on Cape Clear Island. Spend some free time exploring this Gaeltacht Island learning about the island’s culture, the islander life, including old traditions and traditional farming. The island offers the visitor superb marked walking trails. Discover the island’s ancient standing stones, Napoleonic Tower, Dún an Óir Castle, 12th century church and visit the memorial on the Island to the 1979 Fastnet Yacht Race Disaster.
Whilst exploring this wonderful island 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.
After lunch we re-board the ferry where our experienced local captains proceed further out into Ireland’s real Wild Atlantic Way. You might even catch a glimpse of the magnificent whales and dolphins en route!
As we slowly circumnavigate the tallest and widest Rock Lighthouse in Ireland and the UK, take in its deep history and culture as it plays through the on board audio system. Famous for being the “Teardrop” of Ireland, the last glimpse of Ireland that the immigrant ships saw before they headed over the horizon to the New World, America. As you listen your breath will be taken away while you try to comprehend how man could live in such isolation on what was also known as `An Carraig Aonair` which means` Lonely Rock’ or how in 1985 a wave broke the lens of this ocean giant that stands 159 foot tall.
Once we have circled the Rock twice, in different directions, so all passengers can get the perfect photo, we head for home enjoying the spectacular scenery until we reach our final port of Schull.
Departure from Baltimore at 10.30am & Schull at 11.30am. Returning to Baltimore at 4.45pm and to Schull at 4 pm.
For groups of 30 or more we can arrange fully guided private departures to the Fastnet Rock at a time that suits with or without the Cape Clear Island stopover. We can customise the tour to suit the group’s requirements further if required.
Passengers can start their journey in Baltimore and finish in Schull. Baltimore-Cape-Schull or Schull-Cape-Baltimore.
Highlights
- ✓Ferry crossing through Roaring Water Bay with experienced local captains
- ✓Self-guided walking trails on Cape Clear Island with views of Fastnet Rock Lighthouse
- ✓Historical sites: Napoleonic Tower, Dún an Óir Castle, 12th-century church, and 1979 Fastnet Race Disaster memorial
- ✓Close-up boat circumnavigation of Ireland's tallest and widest rock lighthouse
- ✓Whale and dolphin watching opportunities in the Wild Atlantic Way
- ✓Authentic island lunch at local bars and restaurants serving fresh island produce
Insider tips
- ★Wear waterproof layers and secure footwear—island weather changes rapidly and walking trails can be muddy even after light rain
- ★Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting; marine life sightings are weather-dependent, so early autumn (August–September) offers best whale-watching odds
- ★Allow at least 2–3 hours for island exploration to visit multiple historical sites without rushing; the island's bars serve limited lunch slots
- ★The audio commentary during the Fastnet circumnavigation is the best way to absorb the lighthouse's emigration history—find a sheltered spot on deck to listen
Good to know
- •Departure is 11:30 from Schull harbour; arrive 15 minutes early for check-in
- •Tour is self-guided on the island (no group leader); ferry captains provide information during boat sections
- •Bring cash or check card acceptance in advance—island restaurants may have limited payment options
- •Not wheelchair accessible due to ferry boarding and uneven island terrain; seasickness medication recommended for sensitive travellers
Who it's for
History and heritage enthusiasts interested in Irish emigration and maritime folkloreNature lovers and birdwatchers seeking seabird and marine mammal encountersIndependent travellers preferring self-paced exploration over group toursPhotography and lighthouse heritage collectors
Best time to visit
Visit May–September for calmest seas and highest wildlife activity; July–August sees peak tourist numbers on the island. Morning departures catch better light for photography and calmer conditions before afternoon Atlantic swells.
Frequently asked questions
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