Set sail from Westport on a 90-minute cruise through Clew Bay’s islands and wildlife. Encounter seals, visit John Lennon’s Island, and hear tales of the Pirate Queen—an unforgettable maritime experience on the Atlantic coast.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Clew Bay’s islands and coast were once home to Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s Pirate Queen, whose maritime exploits shaped local lore.
Conservation
Westport Cruises operates with a focus on minimizing disturbance to seal colonies and promoting awareness of local marine ecosystems.
Westport Cruises
Set sail from Westport on a 90-minute cruise through Clew Bay’s islands and wildlife. Encounter seals, visit John Lennon’s Island, and hear tales of the Pirate Queen—an unforgettable maritime experience on the Atlantic coast.
Westport Cruises, based in Kinsale, County Cork, operates private and scheduled 90‑minute boat tours aboard a modern 50‑passenger ship. The business provides private-hire options for hen and stag parties, engagement celebrations, birthdays, post-wedding gatherings, and corporate or VIP events, offering exclusive use of the vessel and a fully staffed bar.
Private hire packages include cruise-only charters as well as options with finger food or customizable buffet menus. Live entertainment and tailored on-board hosting are available on request. Professional crew deliver engaging live commentary that highlights local history, maritime stories, and notable landmarks encountered during each route.
Signature trips include a Kinsale Cruise that showcases Kinsale Harbour, with views of Charles Fort and Ringrone Castle and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The Clew Bay Cruise departs from Westport Harbour aboard the modern "Spirit of St. Patrick," featuring Clew Bay scenery, a lively seal colony, John Lennon’s Island, and stories about the Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley.
Safety, comfort, and clear trip descriptions are central to the offering. The vessel accommodates up to 50 passengers for comfortable private charters, and staff handle bar service, catering coordination, and event hosting. Westport Cruises is positioned for visitors and event planners seeking a distinctive maritime venue, memorable scenery, and narrated local history on the water.
Max Capacity
50 passengers
Comfortable private charters
Cruise Length
90 minutes
Standard duration for all trips
Departure
Kinsale, County Cork
Kinsale Harbour departures
Vessel
Spirit of St. Patrick
Modern 50-passenger vessel
Reserve a private 90-minute charter with catering and bar service — perfect for celebrations, groups, and sightseeing.
Reserve Your Seats Early
This popular cruise fills quickly, especially in summer months; booking ahead ensures your spot on the Spirit of St. Patrick.
Dress for Changing Weather
Even on sunny days, Atlantic winds can be brisk—bring layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable on the upper deck.
Bring Binoculars
Wildlife and island details appear best through binoculars, enhancing seal and bird watching on the trip.
Plan for Rough Seas
Occasional choppy conditions occur; travelers prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly.
Layered Clothing
To adapt to the often-variable maritime climate and coastal wind.
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry against Atlantic rain showers and sea spray.
spring|fall|winter
Binoculars
Enhance your view of distant wildlife and island features.
Sun Protection
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen guard against harsh UV exposure on open water.
summer