Daily Sailing
We Run All Year Round
Duration:
~ 10 Min
On
Fast Ferry True Light
~ 20 Min
On Large Ferry Tormore
Dogs & Bikes Welcome
Bikes Must Be Booked In Advance Online
Save 10% Online
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How to Get to Clare Island
Getting to Clare Island is easier than you think. Drive or take the bus to Roonagh Pier, just 30 minutes from Westport, with free parking on site.
Board the ferry and you’re on Clare Island in as little as 10 minutes.
No complicated connections, no fuss – just show up, hop on, and let the island do the rest.
Why Choose Clare Island Fast Ferries
We’re the O’Malley family – Clare Island natives who have been carrying passengers, bikes, and dogs across to the island for generations. This isn’t just a ferry service, it’s a family business built around one thing: getting you to the island safely, on time, every time.
Why Clare Island
The striking silhouette of Clare Island dominates the Atlantic horizon, guarding the entrance to Clew Bay. Its natural beauty, rich culture and unique history make it a highlight of any holiday along the coast of Ireland.
From rugged sea cliffs and tranquil beaches to ancient abbeys and the castle of Grace O’Malley, the island is a haven for walkers, history lovers, families and adventurers alike.
What Awaits You on
Clare Island
Clare Island is more than a ferry trip – it’s a full day out, and most people leave already planning their return.
— Hike to the summit of Knockmore for one of the best views in Mayo.
— Explore Granuaile’s Castle, the stronghold of Ireland’s legendary Pirate Queen, right beside the pier.
— Visit the centuries-old Cistercian Abbey.
— Hire a bike and cover the island’s quiet roads in an afternoon.
— Swim off a beach where the Atlantic is your nearest neighbour.
— Finish the day at the Anchor Bar with local food and, if you’re lucky, live music.
Dogs are welcome on the ferry and on the island. There are bikes for hire at a €5 charge per bike and €10 for ebikes, must be pre-booked online with your tickets. Clare Island is made for child-friendly family days out.
You can spend some time building sandcastles at the beach, playing on playgrounds or grabbing ice cream at the pier.
Ferry Details
Get 10% Off When you Book Online!
✓ Dogs welcome on board
✓ Comfortable, modern boats
✓ Space for bikes and luggage
✓ Easy boarding at Roonagh Pier
✓ Flexible support if plans change
*Note: Pre-booking is essential to avoid disappointment due to reduced capacity owing to social distancing.
The Clew Bay Bike Trail
Additionally, add even more to your adventure by exploring the Clew Bay Bike Trail. A coastal cycling route that connects Westport, Roonagh Pier, and Clare Island. In fact, the scenic views of Croagh Patrick and the surrounding bay, make it a popular choice for those looking to combine cycling and sailing into one memorable day out.
Our Services
Clare Island Fast Ferry
We currently operate two ferries. True Light – A 38-passenger ferry providing a year-round link between Clare Island and the mainland. Known as the fastest ferry operating in Mayo, the journey takes just ten minutes. Tormore – A 96-passenger ferry with both indoor and outdoor seating, and onboard toilet facilities.
Whether you’re commuting, exploring, or planning a getaway, book your Clare Island ferry in advance to secure your seat — and save 10% when booking online.
Our Fleet
What Awaits You on Clare Island
Sea Cliffs
Roonagh Pier & Clew Bay
Grace O’Malley The Pirate Queen
What Our Passengers Say
Excellent trip over to the island. Crew were all really friendly and helpful. Choice of sitting inside or on deck outside – the whole family decided to stay outside both ways even though it rained on the way back!! Great trip and highly recommended.
Took the fast boat over to Clare Island on a beautiful sunny day.
Was well looked after on the boat, the crew took on bikes for us and secured them. All passengers had to wear face masks and seating was arranged for distance.
Sailed with us recently?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Drive or bus to Roonagh Pier, then board our ferry. The ferry journey is 10mins onboard our fast ferry True Light but is 20 mins on our large ferry Tormore.
Clare Island sits in Clew Bay, just off the Mayo coast, reachable only by ferry from Roonagh Pier.
All ferries depart from Roonagh Pier, located about 30 minutes from Westport, Co. Mayo. Additionally, clear signage and ample parking are available at the pier.
Yes – well-behaved dogs travel free, on a lead.
Booking online is recommended, especially in July and August. Save 10% when you book online. This includes bookings to bring your bikes onboard. Book ahead!
Yes, free parking is available on site.
Yes, Clare Island is made for child-friendly family days out. You can spend some time building sandcastles at the beach, playing on playgrounds or grabbing ice cream at the pier.