Aran Ferry Information and Links
It is possible to travel to Inishmore, Inisheer or Inishmaan by Ferry from Doolin in Co. Clare (Seasonal) or Rossaveal in Co. Galway (All Year). Sailings from Doolin can be influenced by tides and other local issues. Ferry services from Galway and Rosaveal are not subject to tidal issues.
Ferries from Doolin.
Ferry services from Doolin in County Clare operate from April 1st to Oct 31st. Various companies operate from the pier at Doolin. 2 Companies operate good strong large steel ferries from adjacent offices. O'Brien Line and Doolin Ferries. Most services start at between 9am and 10 am. These companies offer a service to Inisheer or Inishmore.
Another company operate smaller fiberglass boats called the "Jack B" and "Doolin Discovery" to the Aran islands and also offer trips to the nearby Cliffs of Moher. These are smaller fiberglass boats and sailings can be cancelled if the wind is over 30 knots.
Another company called Aran Island Fast Ferry sometimes operate a small fast ferry to Inisheer and Inishmore
Inismor Direct offer sailings to Inishmore on the older ferry the "Dun Aengus"
Do go to the pier in Doolin. It is not advisable to stop at a ticket office on the road to the pier as you will pay top price there. On the pier, due to competition you will be able to compare prices easily between the 4 offices and you will save a considerable amount.
All ferries are licenced by The Marine section of the Irish Department of Transport
*Sailings from Doolin can be delayed due to tidal issues
Ferries from Rossaveal
Most Aran Island ireland ferries operate from Rossaveal across Galway Bay. Inismor is the busiest ferry destination by far. Advance booking is not usually neccessary but is advisable in August for large Aran tour groups. Ferries begin departures daily at 8.30 am and there are regular departures on large steel ferries.
Aran Island Ferries (Rossaveal)