Galway Bay · Gaeltacht islands
Aran Islands tours from Galway, Rossaveel or Doolin
The three Aran Islands sit at the mouth of Galway Bay. Which of these three Viator collections suits you depends on where you're staying, how early you can set off and which island you want to see.
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The short answer
The islands are Inis Mór, the largest, then Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr. They're part of the Gaeltacht, where Irish is spoken every day. You'll find stone walls, small villages and prehistoric forts such as Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór's cliffs.
Rossaveel is a harbour in Connemara, west of Galway city. Doolin is a village on the Clare coast to the south. Galway city has its own harbour. Check whether your chosen experience sails from Galway city harbour or includes a transfer to another departure point such as Rossaveel. The exact meeting point is listed by the operator.
Compare the three departure collections
| Collection | Departure area | Good fit if you're staying… |
|---|---|---|
| From Galway | Galway city | In Galway city; check the listed meeting point and any transfer requirements. |
| From Connemara (Rossaveel) | Rossaveel harbour, Connemara | In Connemara or west of Galway city |
| From Doolin | Doolin, Co. Clare | In Clare, perhaps combined with a Cliffs of Moher stay |
This table covers departure areas only. The island visited, sailing times, whether it's a ferry or a flight, and time ashore all vary by tour.
From Galway city
A useful collection to explore if you're staying in Galway city without a car. Galway city has its own harbour, so check whether your chosen experience sails from there or includes a transfer to another departure point such as Rossaveel. The exact meeting point is listed by the operator.
Viator collection
Aran Islands from Galway
From Rossaveel in Connemara
If you're already out west in Connemara, or have a car, starting at Rossaveel saves you the journey back into the city. Allow time to park and find the meeting point.
Viator collection
Aran Islands from Connemara (Rossaveel)
From Doolin
Doolin is the handiest start if you're staying in north Clare. Sailings from here can depend on the season and the sea. Check the dates, and check which island the tour actually goes to.
Viator collection
Aran Islands from Doolin
Planning tips
- The sea in Galway Bay can be rough. Bring something for seasickness if you need it, and check the operator's policy if a crossing is cancelled.
- On the islands you get around by bike, on foot, by minibus or by pony and trap. Find out what's available before you rely on it.
- Dún Aonghasa involves an uphill walk over rough ground to an unfenced cliff edge. Wear proper shoes.
- Island shops and cafés are small, so carry cash as a backup and a waterproof layer.
Questions to check before booking
- Which island does it visit: Inis Mór, Inis Meáin or Inis Oírr?
- Where does it depart from, and is there a transfer from Galway city?
- How much time do you get on the island, and is any transport or a guide included there?
- Is it a ferry or a flight, and what happens if the weather cancels the crossing?
- What's the cancellation policy, and what accessibility support is there?
Frequently asked questions
Which Aran Island should I visit on a day trip?
Is Rossaveel the same as Galway?
Can I combine the Aran Islands with the Cliffs of Moher?
How to get to the Aran Islands
There are two ways to reach the islands: by sea or by air. The islands' visitor site says there is no daily car ferry, so plan to travel as a foot passenger.
- Rossaveel, Connemara: ferries listed year-round.
- Galway city harbour: sailings listed as seasonal.
- Doolin, County Clare: sailings listed as seasonal and weather-dependent.
- Connemara Regional Airport, Inverin: flights listed year-round, subject to weather.
Aran Islands tickets versus tours
A ferry or flight ticket gets you to an island. A tour may add transfers, on-island transport or guiding, but this varies. Timetables, fares and seasons are set by the operators, so check their current information; we don't list prices or times.