Doolin Ferry
Explore living history and let Doolin Ferry with Bill O’Brien take you to the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher by sea. Doolin Ferry Est. 1970 operates the largest fast ferry from Doolin, the ‘Doolin Express’. The Doolin Express Ferry is the fastest crossing to the Aran Islands, reaching Inis Oirr in only 15 minutes! This ferry has state of the art anti sea sickness technology, Wifi, and a Mini Bar on board providing the ultimate comfort for our passengers.
Set sail to the Aran Islands; Inis Oirr, Inis Meain, Inis Mor. Walk, cycle, or hitch a pony around the stunning scenery to view ancient ruins and bountiful sea life. Full day or half day visits are available. Only have an hour? Breathe in the magical Cliffs of Moher on a 1-hour cruise while enjoying our entertaining and informed expert on board commentary. A memorable day out!
For the Doolin Ferry timetable please visit HERE. Reservations in advance recommended HERE.
Come meet us!
#1 Doolin Pier, Doolin Ferry V95 DR74
Our red ticket office is located on Doolin Pier. You can also visit our information centre located on Fisher Street located next to O’Brien’s Knitwear Shop and O’Connor’s Pub.
As a young Clare man Bill O’Brien created the original ferry service to the Aran Islands from Doolin Pier in 1970. Today the tradition lives on with his son Liam along with master sea captains and crew from local seafaring families to give you the very best experience on the Wild Atlantic Way. For more on the history and development of Doolin Pier you can read Doolin Pier
Inis Oírr (Inisheer) is the smallest of the three Aran Islands. Its name means “Back Island” and is the closest island to Doolin Pier. This charming island has a lot to offer. Visitors can enjoy O’Brien’s Castle, medieval ruins, seal colonies, a shipwreck (of Father Ted fame), fantastic walks, and much more. Looking out onto the Clare Coastline you can also witness breath-taking views of the Cliffs of Moher from a unique perspective. This island is highly recommended for families with small children. The main sights of Inis Oírr are easily accessible from the port of arrival. There is a playground which is located just behind the beach making it an ideal area for picnicking. There are three pubs serving food & refreshments, a small convenient store for bits & pieces, and an array of cafes for delicious island fare. Inis Oirr is truly a special place and a local favourite!
Inis Mór (Inishmore) is the largest and most travelled to of the Aran Islands. Its very name suggests its size compared to the other islands, meaning “Big Island”. The main harbour Cill Rónán (Kilronan Village) where the ferry arrives is a bustling port with all the modern conveniences you may need for your visit. Visitors can travel around the island by bicycle, mini-bus, and pony & trap tours. Along with visiting the famous ‘Dun Aengus’ ring fort and ruins, there are several beaches that ribbon the coastline of Inis Mór providing a rich environment for seal colonies and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and even have a swim!
Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) is the middle island among the three Aran Islands. There are over 300 flowering plants from places as far as The Arctic and The Mediterranean Region and a wide variety of nesting birds and natural ecosystems on this serene Island. Inis Meáin is truly an escape from the modern world. The Island is a maze of winding roads, laneways and trails that take you around the rugged landscape. Like the other Aran Islands there are rocky hillsides, beaches, and wild flowers blooming throughout.
Cliffs of Moher Cruises
Witness breath-taking views of Ireland’s most famous vista by boat. Set sail from Doolin on a 1-hour journey to the Cliffs of Moher as they reach their great heights and don’t forget your cameras! Awarded a ‘Top 12 Ireland Experience’.
The Cliffs of Moher rise to a height of over 214 meters (700ft). Our cruise sets out from Doolin Pier and follows the Doolin coastline taking in magnificent views all along the way. The Cliffs of Moher have Ireland’s largest mainland nesting bird colony on its lands. The Great Sea Stack (Branaunmore) plays host to thousands of sea birds that make it their summer home. Our ferry takes you there to view birds such as Puffins, Guillemots, and Razorbills just to name a few! Once part of the Cliffs of Moher, this great sea stack is now left to weather the Atlantic seas alone.
Cliffs of Moher Cruises depart daily at 12:00pm, 3:00pm, and 5:15pm. Additional sailing times may be added so please be sure to ring ahead to confirm the schedule. Please note ferry services are weather dependant and operate from early March to early November. Reservations are recommended.
News
For the Summer 2023 season, Doolin Ferry launched a new 9am sailing to Inis Mór and Inis Oírr which is welcome news for visitors to the Aran islands, particularly for day-trippers as it gives them more time to explore.
Award Winning Company
Doolin Ferry Company has won a number of awards in recognition of the superb ferry service it provides including ‘Cruise Company of the Year’ 2022 and ‘Boat Tour of the Year’ 2021 (Ireland).
Over 50 years in business
Doolin Ferry celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020, marking a half century in business operating boats from Doolin to the Aran Islands. Bill O’Brien founded the original ferry service in 1970. It’s been quite a journey from his first single currach to a first class fast ferry fleet. We are so proud of the achievements and advancements that have been made at Doolin Pier.
Our Environmental Focus
The Doolin Ferry Co. works with several local partners to promote environmentally conscious and sustainable tourism in Co. Clare and on the Aran Islands, Co. Galway. We are proud members of the Burren Eco and Doolin Tourism Network.
Responsible business and the sustainability of our local environment is important to us which is why we are also proud sponsors of Birdwatch Ireland and the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group. When you choose The Doolin Ferry Co. you are also choosing to support our local environment.
Failte ar bord THE Doolin Ferry Co.! Welcome aboard THE Doolin Ferry Co.!