20-minute crossings from the Mayo mainland delivering direct access to Clare Island’s beaches, cliffs, wildlife and history.
Simple, reliable crossings between Roonagh pier and Clare Island for day visits, hiking and sightseeing.
water-activities · Westport
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of Clare Island with a scenic ferry ride from Roonagh. Perfect for hikers, bird-watchers, and adventure seekers alike, this trip offers a memorable Irish coastal experience. Keep reading to learn why Clare Island is a must-visit destination.
O'Malley Ferries (Clare Island) Ltd is a Westport, County Mayo–based ferry operator providing direct crossings between Roonagh pier on the Mayo mainland and Clare Island. The company runs short, practical ferry services designed for day visitors, hikers, bird-watchers and local travellers seeking straightforward access to Clare Island’s landscapes and heritage.
Crossings from Roonagh to Clare Island typically take around 20 minutes, offering a quick route to sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and diverse geology — including Ireland’s oldest fossil — as well as cultural sites such as Granuaile's Castle. The service focuses on reliable departures, clear passenger information, and local knowledge of tides and coastal conditions in Clew Bay.
Boats provide a scenic vantage point for wildlife viewing, including nesting sea-birds on island cliffs, and accommodate foot passengers planning hiking or leisure visits. Booking details, departure times and seasonal schedules are coordinated from the operator’s base in Westport, County Mayo, with departures from Roonagh pier.
As a local operator serving the Clare Island route, O'Malley Ferries (Clare Island) Ltd connects visitors to the island’s natural highlights and cultural sites with a simple, no-frills ferry experience. Passengers are advised to check current sailing information before travel and to plan connections for hiking or island exploration accordingly.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Return trips between pier and island
Short, scenic ferry ride
Local operator in County Mayo
Scenic landscapes and heritage
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current O'Malley Ferries (Clare Island) Ltd listing.
O'Malley Ferries (Clare Island) Ltd offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Book a 20-minute ferry crossing from Roonagh and step ashore Clare Island’s beaches, cliffs and historic sites.
water-activities · Ballyhaunis
A quick ferry ride transports you to Clare Island’s stunning beaches, cliffs, and rich history. Discover geological treasures and rugged trails on this memorable coastbound trip.
water-activities · Ballyhaunis
Step aboard O'Malley Ferries for a scenic 20-minute crossing from Clare Island to Roonagh. This trip links you to one of Ireland’s wildest coastal landscapes, rich in wildlife, history, and dramatic cliffs.
water-activities · Westport
Just 20 minutes by ferry from Roonagh pier, Clare Island invites adventurers to hike dramatic cliffs, watch seabirds, and visit historic sites. O'Malley Ferries offers a dependable, year-round link to this rugged Mayo gem.
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.