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Sea Kayak Adventure at Ballymastocker Bay & Knockalla Cliffs with Eco Atlantic Adventures - Letterkenny

Sea Kayak Adventure at Ballymastocker Bay & Knockalla Cliffs with Eco Atlantic Adventures

Croaghrosseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling skills recommended but not required.

Overview

Paddle along Ireland’s dramatic coastlines, discovering hidden caves and spotting playful seals. This sea kayak tour provides a perfect mix of adventure, history, and wildlife on Donegal’s stunning shores.

Kayak
Letterkenny, County Donegal

Knockalla Ghost Ship Sea Kayak Tour

4 Hours • Ages 16+

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About This Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating 4-hour sea kayaking adventure from Portsalon Pier, exploring the stunning Ballymastocker Bay and the dramatic Knockalla Sea Cliffs. Encounter hidden beaches, fascinating caves, and the haunting tale of the Knockalla Ghost ship. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals as you paddle through history-rich waters.

Duration: 4 Hours

About

Departing Portsalon Pier and Crossing Ballymastocker Bay and the 2nd Most Beautiful Beach in the World.

Checking out the Knockalla Sea Cliffs, Caves, hidden beaches and bird colonies.

Even during Heavy Rain brings many little Waterfall rolling of the mountains and into the sea, where we find our selfs beside the Knockalla Ghost ship.

The Horizon fishing vessel run a ground in a storm while huge waves battered the fishing vessel further into the cave, while all 7 fishermen were helpless captured between land and sea. Luckily all 7 were air lifted to safety, after the 118 helicopter hovered for 90min close to cave walls.

Further along the Cliffs we pass Knockall Fort, 1 of 6 Forts built by the British with in 9 months. This fort with a mote was built to protect Lough Swilly against Invading forces, now a modern style home built inside the grounds and privately owned.

There is also a strong possibility of spotting some dolphins, seals, mink, sea otter and wild birds from the many colonies perched on the cliff face.

Paddling to Scraggy Bay and its many dark and narrow caves systems, shaped out from the many North Westerly Storms rolling up the Swilly.

Lough Swilly is Steped in History form the 16th century kidnapping of Red Hugh Odonnell by Queen Elisabeth's lord deputy Sir John Perrot, to the flight of the Earls and the capture and execution of revolutionary Wolfe Tone.

Tour is 20km in distance and 5-6 Hours duration and best suited to paddlers with some Sea kayaking Experience.

Tour is not suitable for 1st timers, children under 16years or those with lower back problems and poor levels of physical fitness.

Please bring your own wetsuit if you have one, if not please let us know what size you need and we will book one for you. Bring a light snack and fluids as you will need to keep your energy levels up. Old runners or footwear are essential and light rain jacket, ensure you have a water proof pouch for your phone or camera.

Please arrive 20min early to get parked and to get gear sorted. Tour starting from Portsalon Pier.

Included

All Kayak & Kit, Wetsuit, Lunch and Qualified Guides

Adventure Tips

Wear quick-drying clothing

Choose moisture-wicking gear suitable for water activities, and bring a lightweight change of clothes.

Bring waterproof camera or phone case

Capture the scenic spots without risking water damage to your devices.

Carry sun protection

Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to stay protected during sunny days on the water.

Follow safety instructions carefully

Listen closely to guides' briefings and stay within designated paddling areas.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Harbour seals

History

The coast has a long history of shipwrecks, inspiring local legend of ghost ships haunting these waters.

Conservation

Eco Atlantic Adventures emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact during their tours.

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Adventure Hotspots in Letterkenny

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Wetsuit or drysuit

Essential

Helps maintain warmth and comfort during the hours on the water.

spring;summer;fall;winter specific

Waterproof hat or cap

Essential

Protects your face from the sun and splashes.

spring;summer;fall;winter specific

Sun protection (SPF sunscreen)

Essential

Prevents sunburn while spending extended time on the water.

spring;summer;fall;winter specific

Secure, quick-drying clothing

Essential

Ensures comfort and dryness during paddling and potential water contact.

spring;summer;fall;winter specific