Inishmore Ferries

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

Ferries to Inishmore depart regularly from Rossaveal in County Galway (about 40 minutes west of Galway City) and from Doolin in County Clare (approximately 1.5 hours from Limerick). If traveling from Dublin, allow 3-4 hours by car or coach to reach either departure point. During summer months, shuttle buses connect Galway City with the Rossaveal ferry terminal, aligning with ferry departure times. For those arriving by car, both ferry ports offer paid parking facilities, with advance booking recommended during peak season. The crossing takes roughly 40 minutes from Rossaveal or 90 minutes from Doolin, depending on sea conditions.

Inishmore (Inis Mór) stands as the largest and most visited of Ireland's historic Aran Islands. Jutting dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean off Galway Bay, this limestone landscape combines stark beauty with rich Gaelic heritage preserved over centuries. As a premier ferry destination, Inishmore offers travelers an authentic glimpse into traditional Irish island life. From ancient stone forts to windswept cliffs, the island promises an immersive experience where time seems to slow and the modern world fades away.

Inishmore enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers moderated by the Atlantic. Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) offer ideal conditions with moderate temperatures, fewer visitors, and lush landscapes in full bloom. July and August bring the warmest weather and busiest ferry schedules but also the largest crowds at key attractions like Dún Aonghasa. Winter visits (November-March) provide a raw, authentic island experience with dramatic seas and peaceful solitude, though some businesses reduce hours and ferry crossings become more weather-dependent. The island's traditional Féile Cheoil festival in late March marks the beginning of the tourist season with traditional music and dance.

Inishmore serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the entire Aran Islands archipelago. From the ferry port, connections to the smaller islands of Inishmaan (Inis Meáin) and Inisheer (Inis Oírr) are readily available, with journeys taking just 15-20 minutes between islands. The mainland harbors of Doolin and Rossaveal are within easy reach, opening up exploration opportunities along the Wild Atlantic Way. For an unforgettable day trip, consider visiting the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, visible from Inishmore on clear days and accessible via ferry to Doolin (approximately 90 minutes). The charming fishing village of Roundstone and the Connemara region also make rewarding onward destinations after your island adventure.

The prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa commands attention, perched dramatically on a 100-meter cliff edge with stunning Atlantic views and 3,000 years of history beneath your feet. Cycling the island's network of stone-walled roads offers an intimate way to explore hidden beaches, seal colonies, and the famous wormhole natural pool formation. In Kilronan village, sample traditional island fare like fresh seafood chowder and hearty Irish stew at charming family-run pubs where impromptu traditional music sessions often spring up. The Seven Churches archaeological site reveals Inishmore's early Christian heritage through its well-preserved ruins and ancient graveyards. Don't miss the chance to purchase an authentic Aran sweater, hand-knitted with patterns unique to the island's families and designed originally for fishermen braving Atlantic storms.

Inishmore's residents still primarily speak Irish (Gaeilge) as their first language, making it one of the last remaining Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) regions in Ireland. The island's intricate network of stone walls, built without mortar and stretching over 1,500 miles, was constructed over centuries to create soil on the bare limestone rock by mixing seaweed and sand. Until the 1970s, all goods arrived on traditional wooden currachs (canvas-covered boats) that locals still race during summer festivals. The island served as a filming location for the cult comedy 'Father Ted' and more recently for scenes in 'The Banshees of Inisherin,' though the latter was primarily filmed on nearby Achill Island.