Frequently Asked Questions

Booking your irish ferries trip is simple. You have three easy options:

• Use our online booking form on the Contact page
• Call us directly on +353 65 707 5555 during office hours
• Email us at [email protected]

We recommend booking in advance, particularly during peak season (June–August) and on bank holiday weekends.

We recommend booking at least 48 hours ahead for standard trips. For group bookings of 10 or more passengers, please contact us at least 1 week in advance to ensure availability.

During peak summer months (June to August) and school holidays, popular routes such as the Aran Islands Day Trip fill up quickly — booking 1–2 weeks ahead is advised.

Yes, modifications and cancellations are accepted subject to our booking policy. Please contact us as soon as possible if your plans change. Key points:

• Cancellations made 48+ hours before departure: full refund
• Cancellations made 24–48 hours before: 50% refund
• Cancellations within 24 hours: no refund (exceptions for verified emergencies)

For full details, please see our Refund Policy.

Yes! We offer special rates for group bookings. Groups of 10 or more passengers qualify for our group pricing. We also offer private charter options for corporate outings, school trips, and special events.

Please contact our team directly to discuss your requirements and receive a tailored quote.

All our services depart from Doolin Pier, Ballaghaline, Doolin, Co. Clare, V95 DR74, Ireland. Doolin is a charming coastal village on the Wild Atlantic Way, conveniently located just 5 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher.

Doolin is accessible by car, bus (Bus Éireann routes), and guided tour coaches from Galway, Limerick, and Ennis.

We operate several popular routes along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way:

• Aran Islands Day Trip — Doolin to Inis Oírr, Inis Meáin & Inis Mór
• Cliffs of Moher Sea Route — scenic coastal cruise past the iconic cliffs
• Wild Atlantic Way Explorer — extended coastal discovery trip
• Family Island Adventure — kid-friendly island hopping
• Private Group Charters — custom routes on request

We operate year-round, subject to weather and sea conditions. Our seasonal schedule is as follows:

• Peak Season (April–September): Multiple daily departures from 9:00am
• Off-Peak (October–March): Reduced schedule; please check availability
• Office hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–6:00pm, Sat 10:00am–4:00pm

We recommend arriving at Doolin Pier at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Passenger safety is our top priority. If a sailing is cancelled due to adverse weather or sea conditions, we will contact all booked passengers as early as possible and offer:

• A full refund to the original payment method
• An alternative sailing date at no extra charge

Weather decisions are made by our experienced captain on the day of sailing. We monitor conditions closely and aim to give as much notice as possible.

Our vessels are equipped to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable:

• Covered indoor seating area with panoramic windows
• Open-air deck for sightseeing and wildlife spotting
• Onboard refreshments and light snacks available for purchase
• Toilet facilities
• Life jackets and safety equipment complying with Irish Marine standards
• Friendly, knowledgeable crew providing commentary on the route

We strive to accommodate all passengers. However, due to the nature of ferry piers and open-sea conditions, boarding can involve steps and uneven surfaces. Please contact us before booking so we can advise on current accessibility and make appropriate arrangements.

Our crew is always on hand to assist and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on our outdoor deck areas, provided they are kept on a lead at all times and under the owner's control. Pets are not permitted in indoor passenger seating areas.

Please note that assistance dogs are welcome throughout all areas of the vessel at no extra charge.

Doolin Pier is located at No.1 Doolin Pier, Ballaghaline, Doolin, Co. Clare (Eircode V95 DR74). You can reach us by:

• Car: Follow the N67 from Ennistymon or the R479 from Lisdoonvarna. Parking is available near the pier.
• Bus: Bus Éireann service 350 connects Galway and Ennis to Doolin (seasonal).
• Tour coach: Many guided tour operators from Dublin, Galway, and Limerick include Doolin as a stop.

To make the most of your irishferries experience, we suggest packing:

• Layers of clothing — Atlantic weather can change quickly; a windproof jacket is essential
• Sunscreen — even on overcast days, UV exposure on the water can be high
• Camera or binoculars — for stunning coastal views and wildlife (dolphins, seals and seabirds are often spotted!)
• Sea-sickness remedy — if you are prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding
• Comfortable footwear with non-slip soles
• Valid booking confirmation (email or printout)

Absolutely! The Aran Islands Day Trip is one of our most popular family experiences. Children of all ages are welcome, and we offer discounted child fares (under 12). The Aran Islands offer a magical, car-free environment where children can explore Iron Age forts, sandy beaches and traditional Irish village life.

We recommend our Family Island Adventure package, specifically designed with families in mind, including engaging onboard storytelling about the islands' history and wildlife.

Yes! We partner with local tour operators to offer combined packages that include our ferry crossing alongside visits to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, guided walking tours of the Aran Islands, and traditional music evenings in Doolin's famous pubs.

Our Wild Atlantic Way Explorer package is a great example of a full-day combination experience. Contact our team for more information on custom itineraries.