Adventure Brief
Set sail across Bantry Bay’s 21 nautical miles with Bantry Bay Boat Hire and encounter dolphins, seals, and Whiddy Island’s historic shores on a thrilling two-hour boat tour.
2 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Set sail across Bantry Bay’s 21 nautical miles with Bantry Bay Boat Hire and encounter dolphins, seals, and Whiddy Island’s historic shores on a thrilling two-hour boat tour.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the boat has stable seating and minimal physical demand.
Wildlife
History
Whiddy Island once served as an oil terminal and played a strategic role during the 20th century, adding depth to the coastal landscape.
Conservation
Local operators promote responsible wildlife viewing to minimize disturbance to marine animals and protect Bantry Bay’s delicate ecosystem.
Bantry Bay Boat Hire Limited
Set sail across Bantry Bay’s 21 nautical miles with Bantry Bay Boat Hire and encounter dolphins, seals, and Whiddy Island’s historic shores on a thrilling two-hour boat tour.
Bantry Bay Boat Hire Limited operates from Bantry in County Cork, providing a range of sea-based adventures on Bantry Bay. The company offers guided and self-drive options including kayaking, RIB and boat tours, mackerel fishing boat hire, and multi-day youth camps. Trips range from one-hour kayak and boat rentals to two-hour sea safaris and a three-day teen adventure camp, plus family-friendly fishing and island paddles to Whiddy and Bere Islands.
All outings include safety briefings or provision of safety gear, and many tours are led by qualified skippers or guides. The business provides single and double kayaks, fishing rods for mackerel trips, and handles luggage for island paddles when noted. Night kayaking, sunset paddles, and wildlife-focused safaris highlight local sightings of dolphins, porpoises, and seals. Self-drive boat hire and RIB experiences are available for those seeking independent exploration or private-group options.
Bantry Bay Boat Hire Limited caters to beginners and families as well as more adventurous guests, with options suitable for first-time paddlers and supervised youth camps. Bookings are organized from Bantry, giving direct access to the Bantry Blueway and nearby islands. Safety equipment, clear route guidance, and skilled on-water staff support confident, memorable days on the water. Whether seeking a relaxed island pub stop, an adrenaline RIB ride, a peaceful sunset paddle, or a three-day teen adventure, the company delivers a full range of Bantry Bay experiences. Reservations are available for private groups and individuals, with equipment choices and clear booking steps provided at the Bantry launch site access.
Location
Bantry, County Cork
Launch point on Bantry Bay
Group Friendly
Families & groups
Options suitable for all ages
Trips Offered
13
Kayak, boat, RIB, camps
Wildlife
Dolphins, porpoises, seals
Seen on guided sea safaris
Reserve kayaks, RIBs, or boat tours—check availability and book online for trips from Bantry, County Cork.
Dress for Changing Weather
Bring waterproof layers even in summer as sea conditions can change rapidly.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance wildlife spotting with binoculars to catch distant dolphins and seals.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to get settled and hear pre-trip info from your skipper.
Mind the Sun
The reflection off the water intensifies sun exposure; wear sunscreen and sunglasses.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects from sea spray and sudden rain.
Binoculars
Improves distant wildlife and landscape viewing.
Sunglasses
Reduces glare from water and protects eyes.
spring|summer|fall
Non-slip Shoes
Ensures safety on wet and uneven boat surfaces.