Galway City Centre Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Galway is well-connected by an extensive network of roads, with the M6 motorway linking it to Dublin in approximately 2.5 hours. Regular bus services operate from major Irish cities, including Dublin (3 hours), Cork (3.5 hours), and Limerick (1.5 hours). Train travelers can enjoy direct rail connections from Dublin Heuston Station, with services running several times daily. For international visitors, Shannon Airport is the closest international gateway, about 90 minutes away by bus or car. The ferry terminal is easily accessible from the city center, with local buses and taxis readily available, and ample parking facilities nearby for those arriving by car.

Perched on Ireland's rugged west coast, Galway blends medieval charm with contemporary energy in a uniquely Irish fashion. This bustling harbor city serves as a vital maritime gateway to the wild Atlantic, with ferry connections to the enchanting Aran Islands and beyond. Wander through its colorful streets and you'll be greeted by the sound of traditional Irish music spilling from cozy pubs, the scent of fresh seafood, and the unmistakable warmth of one of Ireland's most beloved coastal destinations.

Galway shines brightest during the summer months of June through August, when temperatures hover comfortably between 15-20°C and daylight stretches well into the evening. July brings the internationally acclaimed Galway Arts Festival and the Galway Races, making it an especially vibrant time to visit. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer milder weather and fewer tourists, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed experience. Ferry services to the Aran Islands operate year-round but run more frequently during summer, with additional routes available. Winter visitors can enjoy the magical Galway Christmas Market and cozy pub culture, though be prepared for brisk Atlantic winds and occasional rainfall.

Galway serves as the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the treasures of Ireland's western seaboard. The mystical Aran Islands lie just a 45-minute ferry journey from the city, offering a glimpse into traditional Irish life amid stunning limestone landscapes and prehistoric forts. Inishbofin Island, reached in about 90 minutes by ferry, rewards visitors with pristine beaches, clear waters, and abundant wildlife. The ferry to Clare Island (2 hours) takes you to the ancestral home of the pirate queen Grace O'Malley, featuring dramatic cliffs and rich history. For those seeking a unique island-hopping experience, the summer-only ferry services connecting multiple islands allow you to create a memorable maritime adventure using Galway as your base.

Stroll through the Latin Quarter, where medieval streets house colorful shops, traditional craft stores, and some of Ireland's finest seafood restaurants serving fresh Galway Bay oysters and local catch. Explore the 16th-century Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum to uncover the port's rich maritime history and trading past. Don't miss the chance to experience a traditional Irish music session in one of the city's historic pubs like The Crane Bar or Tig Cóilí, where locals and visitors alike gather for authentic cultural experiences. The bustling Shop Street offers excellent shopping, while the nearby Salthill Promenade provides stunning views across Galway Bay – perfect for a sunset walk before or after your ferry journey.

Galway's nickname, 'City of Tribes,' comes from the 14 merchant families who controlled the city during the medieval period, their influence still visible in street names and architecture throughout the harbor area. The famous Claddagh Ring, showing two hands holding a crowned heart symbolizing love, loyalty, and friendship, originated in the fishing village of Claddagh, now part of Galway city. In 1477, Christopher Columbus is believed to have visited Galway's port, drawing inspiration from local sailors' tales of lands to the west. The currach, a traditional fishing boat unique to Ireland's west coast, can still be spotted in Galway Bay, using the same design that has served local fishermen for over 1,000 years.