Getting to the gorgeous Aran Islands of Ireland is very straightforward, and it can be done in a couple of different ways getting there is surprisingly simple, with a variety of different options to choose from.
These are your options
1 – Take A Modern Ferry Boat
2 – Fly Over By Plane
Getting To The Island From Galway City
Getting there from Galway City is an incredible way to spend your vacation or weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or a unique way to explore some of Ireland’s most beautifully rugged terrain, the Aran Islands make for a perfect destination. As Galway City is only a short distance, the journey is a reasonably straightforward one, with a number of options for getting there.
The most popular and one of the easiest ways to get to see this amazing part of Ireland is to take a ferry from Galway City Centre. Ferries from Galway City depart every day, with regular services to all three gems, Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer. Ferries usually depart around 9.30 am and return in the evening, though times do vary according to the season. Tickets can be booked in advance online, and day return tickets usually cost in the region of €25 – €30.
For those who don’t want to drive to Galway, there are a few other options available. Bus services run to Galway from many cities around Ireland, check the Bus Eireann website for more info. There is also the option to take an Aran ferry from either Doolin or Rossaveal and departs from both locations on certain days of the week, I will cover that below.
Check here to book your tickets
Get the Ferry From Connemara County Galway
From Rossaveal, you will want to find the ferry dock, which should be easy as it is only a few minute’s walk from the centre of the main area. There are a number of ferry companies operating out of Rossaveal but the most popular is Aran Ferries. Aran Ferries leave from Rossaveal at least once a day (most days be sure to check) and they will get you to these amazing gems in just 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on conditions. It is advisable to book a ticket in advance as the ferries can fill quickly during peak season.
Click here to book your tickets
Once you have arrived at the dock and boarded the ferry your next stop will be the Aran Islands. The three islands are all served by the ferry, allowing you easily access each one. Depending on which one you want to visit the ferry may stop at two of the islands before the final destination.
Hop On The Ferry From From Doolin County Clare
Doolin Ferries is a family-operated business, which has become a well-known service for its reliable and experienced staff in providing trips between Doolin and the Aran Islands. Doolin Ferries has been running since the early ‘90s and its fleet of ferries is maintained to the highest safety and comfort standards. All ferries are equipped with up-to-date navigation systems, and toilets.
These ferries serve a range of destinations and offer three different types of service depending on the season. The main routes are Doolin to Inis Mór, Doolin to Inis Meáin and Doolin to Inis Oírr. The fastest of these ferries, the “Aran Islands Express”, is the most popular, offering passengers a direct route to Inis Mór and a journey time of around 45 minutes, tickets are priced at 28.00 euros Other ferries offer seasonal services, taking passengers from Doolin to all three unspoiled gems. These services are also highly dependable as well as cost-effective, making them popular with both tourists and locals.
Click here to book your tickets
Not only is Doolin Ferries dependable, but its friendly staff also provide a range of additional services to passengers. Tour guides are available to provide background information on the islands and their history and the service also offers direct transfers to accommodation on any of the islands. This makes it incredibly convenient for those wanting to explore these amazing areas in more depth.
Overall, Doolin Ferries offers an easy and hassle-free experience in taking visitors to the Aran Islands and tours to see the Cliffs of Moher also. The reliable and comfortable ferries as well as its array of additional services make it a practical choice when planning a visit to the islands. With its mix of stunning scenery and fascinating culture, the Aran Islands are a must-visit destination, and a journey with Doolin Ferries is the ideal way to get there.
Fly Over With With Aer Arann
If you’re looking to escape something a bit different when exploring Ireland, taking a flight with Aer Arann may be the perfect option for you. Located off the west coast of Ireland in the Atlantic Ocean, these unspoiled gems were declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1991 and are home to breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, cultural heritage and archaeological sites.
Here’s how you can make the most of a flight with Aer Arann and get to the Aran Islands in style.
The earliest and simplest way to reach the Aran Islands is by using your Aer Arann flight. Aer Arann operates daily flights to the islands from Connemara Airport, which is located in the province of Galway. Depending on the time of year, you can take a ferry from either Galway City or Rossaveal if your into that. However, the quickest and most scenic way to get to these islands is by flying with Aer Arann.
Aer Arann has a few options to choose from, with flights departing from the small airport in Connemara. Depending on where you’re flying from, the journey may take 45 minutes to two hours, but it’s a comfortable and relatively affordable trip. Flight schedules are subject to change, so it’s a good idea to double-check the timetable when booking and allow plenty of travel time to avoid missing your flight.
Aer Arann also offers an online check-in service and provides child discounts, so make sure to keep these in mind when booking. There is bus connection information on the Aer Arann website so be sure to check it out.
The views of the Irish coastline and the majestic beauty of the Aran Islands are unparalleled, making the Aer Arann flights a great way to experience this unique part of the country. Once you’ve arrived, it’s easy to get around the islands with local tours, bikes and guided tours. Using bicycles or even horse-drawn carts is the best way to get around and experience the local culture of this magical part of Ireland.
Whether you’re looking for a bit of adventure away from the mainland, or simply want to explore the spectacular beauty of the Aran Islands, an Aer Arann flight is a great way to get underway. With easy online booking, competitive prices and a range of routes to choose from, you can guarantee a safe and comfortable journey and a truly unforgettable experience.
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