It's one of Ireland's top destinations, visited by nearly one million people annually. No one can deny the Cliffs of Moher are simply stunning. Standing high above the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, you can see for miles along the coast and even across the water as far as the Aran Islands on a clear day.
Having visited the famed cliffs three times in the past – and enjoying three different experiences – I chose to approach the cliffs from a different vantage point this year, with a cruise on Doolin2Aran Ferries. The cruise, approximately one hour long, departs Doolin 3 times daily, weather permitting.
Podcast Extra: Learn more about Doolin2Aran Ferries and their
cruises to the Aran Islands & below the Cliffs of Moher
Cliffs of Moher Cruise with Doolin2Aran Ferries
The village of Doolin is just north of the Cliffs of Moher. As you enter the village, follow the R479 west, to Doolin Pier. You'll find plentiful parking and the bright yellow Doolin2Aran Ferries sign is easy to spot. While tickets may be purchased on site, your best option is to reserve in advance online during high season to guarantee the sailing time you want, or phone the day before to check availability. Note: tickets are refunded if the cruise is canceled due to weather.
You'll want to dress warmly for the cruise, adding a hat and gloves, if you plan to remain outside the protection of the cabin during your cruise. Plenty of seating is available at the rear of the boat and the upper deck offers standing room.
The day of our sailing was clear and the wind was mild. As we waited for our boat, I was introduced to Katherine Webster, director of the Cliffs of Moher Experience at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre. As our cruise was not narrated, this meeting proved fortunate as Katherine is incredibly knowledgeable about the Cliffs and their history. As Katherine isn't likely to be on your cruise, I recommend visiting the Cliffs of Moher website.
A Cliffs of Moher cruise is the perfect accompaniment to your visit to the Cliffs of Moher and, in my opinion, should be added to every Cliffs of Moher itinerary.
| Ferries depart from Doolin Pier 2 – 3 times daily.
Book tickets online for best rates. If the cruise cancels, your ticket price is refunded. If you choose not to book online, call the day before to check ticket availability. The Cliffs of Moher cruise lasts approximately one hour. Dress warmly and bring layers, including hats and gloves. Seating is available indoors and at the rear of the ferry. Standing room on the top platform. |
Note: This post was update on September 21, 2013. Narration is available on these cruises. Please see comments below!
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Hi Jody
I am delighted you enjoyed your cruise with us so much – your photos are fantastic! There is just one thing I wanted to correct, we do actually have audio commentary on board in English, German, French, Italian and Spanish, but perhaps there was a problem with the speakers when you were on your cruise.
You were indeed lucky to meet up with Katherine, as director of the Cliffs of Moher Visitors Centre, there are very few people who know more about the Cliffs than her 🙂 The Cliffs of Moher website was recently upgraded and has a great new layout with a wealth of information. We also have some background details on our own site: http://www.doolin2aranferries.com/cliffs-of-moher.html
Thanks again for sharing!
All the best
Joan Reilly, Marketing Manager, Doolin2Aran Ferries
Thank you for the information, Joan!