Aran Island Ferries (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Aran Island Ferries?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Shared deck views, onboard drinks and short sail to romantic islands suit couples, and bike or pony tours add privacy; crowding on peak sailings is the only real negative.
Positives:
- Coastal scenery: Enjoy uninterrupted sea views from both the ferry and island roads.
- Car-free roads: Cycle or walk without traffic for a relaxed pace.
Challenges:
- Weather variability: Wind and rain can arrive suddenly; pack waterproofs.
- Limited late sailings: Returning ferries may end by early evening; plan your schedule.
What is Aran Island Ferries?
- A coastal ferry service operating scheduled crossings between Galway city or Rossaveel Harbour and the Aran Islands
- A fleet of high-speed catamarans and passenger vessels designed for safe and efficient transit across Galway Bay
- An Irish maritime transport operator providing essential links for island communities and regional transport networks
What is so special about Aran Island Ferries for couple trip?
- Sail past the Cliffs of Moher on a scenic ferry crossing
- Cycle or e-bike to Dún Aonghasa for cliff-top views
- Relax with live music and seafood in island pubs
- Opt for minibus or pony tours to uncover hidden spots
- Try sea-kayaking or a traditional currach for two
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 days
Why 1-2 days visit duration is ideal for couple trip: A full day trip lets you combine a ferry crossing, cycling to Dún Aonghasa, and a pub evening; staying overnight allows a relaxed second day.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Aran Island Ferries
Scenic Ferry Crossing:
Board Aran Island Ferry from Galway City for a 40-minute crossing past Galway Bay and the Cliffs of Moher.
Tip: Book the Galway City departure to include the guided Cliffs of Moher cruise.
Bike Ride to Dún Aonghasa:
Rent standard or electric bikes at Kilronan Pier and cycle 30–40 minutes to the cliff-top fort Dún Aonghasa.
Tip: Pause at coastal photo spots and lock your bike near the fort entrance.
Minibus Island Tour:
Join a 1–2 hour minibus tour to discover hidden sea-view points and island legends.
Tip: Opt for the earliest tour to visit Poll na bPéist before larger groups arrive.
Seaweed Baths on Inis Oírr:
Soak in a heated seaweed mineral bath with Atlantic views at Inis Oírr.
Tip: Book online in advance and arrive 10 minutes early to change.
Evening Pub with Live Music:
Dine at Tigh Joe Watty’s in Kilronan and enjoy local seafood and live traditional sessions.
Tip: Ask the bartender for Galway oyster specials and request a song from the musicians.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Aran Island Ferries
- Book tickets early: Reserve ferry and bike rentals online to secure your preferred times.
- Start early: Catch the first ferry to beat crowds and enjoy morning light on the island.
- Use an e-bike: Cover more ground on windy days with minimal effort.
Reviews of Aran Island Ferries
Werner Schauer
A great tour and definitely a recommendation. There is a 4 hours stop on Irishmore, time enough to do the buster. And on the way back it's breathtaking views of the Cliffs of Moher.
Haris Vugdalic
The ferry leaves 30 minutes after 9am from Galway port and again at 3:30pm from Inishmore, Aran Islands. The trip to the island takes about an hour and a half while the return trip, which includes a seaside viewing of the Cliffs of Moher, is closer to 2 and a half hours. It's quite a bumpy ride on the return trip so if you have sensitivity to sea sickness prepare Dramamine! This ship does not slow...
David Cosgrave
The best tour company in Galway/Aran Islands TLDR: Book this company without hesitation! Aidan and his crew care about safety and the comfort of their guests. At every moment I sensed their presence and willingness to make everyone feel comfortable on the trip. The Aran Islands themselves are majestic, it's a must see when in Galway. The Cliffs of Mohar are breathtaking. On this trip, we had ...
Julie Harrison
This was one of my favorite tours while in Ireland! I debated about this tour while planning, but I’m glad I did it! We got lucky with beautiful weather and calm seas, but the Aran Islands are breathtakingly beautiful and it was so cool to see the cliffs from the water! Our ship had a smaller open air upper deck and an enclosed lower deck. We sat in the lower deck on the way there, but were able t...
Wendy Cross
We had an amazing day! The weather could not have been kinder. The journey both ways were exceedingly calm. Our time in Inis Mor was wonderful. We walked to the Temple of Beanan for a beautiful view of the island. The Cliffs of Moher were magnificent to see from the water. My husband lost his glasses on the ferry. They were found and Anna, from the office and the crew could not have been more help...
When is the best time to visit Aran Island Ferries (Galway, Ireland)?
From late May to early September services run hourly; outside summer, check ferry times and pack wind-proof layers.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Return ferry tickets for two | EUR 90 |
| Bike rental for two | EUR 40 |
| Dinner and drinks at island pub | EUR 60 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 190 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Aran Island Ferries
Address: First Floor, 37-39 Forster St, Galway, H91 FXA6, Ireland
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About Aran Island Ferries
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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