Does anyone have experience with the ferry that leaves from Galway (vs. the Rossaveal ferry) and includes the Cliffs of Moher on the return? It looks like that option gives us only 4 1/2 hours on the island - is that enough time?
Is it necessary to book any of the ferries ahead of time?
Thanks for any info!
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2976 posts
I can only comment on the ferry from Rossaveal - which was enough for us to consider flying over and back on future trips. The ferries are not particularly large craft - around 100 ft in length as I recall - and we experienced a lot of rocking and rolling in both directions even though the seas weren't particularly heavy that day. Though my wife and I usually aren't prone to sea sickness we were very glad indeed to finally dock at the end of the ride. Many of our fellow passengers felt the effects much more than we did .
Point being that though the trip from Galway out to the island and back with a side trip to view the cliffs does sound nice, whether that extra time aboard ship is a pleasure cruise or an ordeal is something to consult your own stomach about.
To answer your other question: 4.5 hours on the island should be ample time to view the key sights - there will be vans and pony traps lined up on the pier when you arrive so you'll be able to set off pretty quickly to tour the island. Your driver will tailor your tour to ensure that you're back at the pier in time to catch your return ferry.
Posted by
Birmingham
9 posts
We just got back from our trip and took the ferry from Galway. You have enough time to see the key sites. Find a tour van as soon as you depart, it will drop you off at the fort for an hour and half or so and then do a quick tour of the island. Will drop you off at the port for some quick shopping and a snack. The views of the cliffs are amazing.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks very much!
Posted by
7 posts
We took the ferry from Galway. We opted for the overnight and reserved e-bikes on the ferry ride over to optimize our time. Aran Bike Hire was passing out brochures with maps and a booking QR code when we were waiting for the ferry in Galway. This was really helpful. We knew exactly what we wanted to do and didn't have to wait for our bikes since we had a reservation.