Wild Atlantic Way Cruises: Top 5 Tours for Breathtaking Views

Picture this, if you will: the wild, untamed coast of Ireland stretching out before you, the salty air filling your lungs, and the cries of gulls overhead. Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way is an absolutely phenomenal adventure, and, well, what could be a better way to experience it than from the water? With so many different tours and cruises available, planning your visit could feel a bit like herding sheep on a misty morning. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top five Wild Atlantic Way cruises and sailing tours that give actually wonderful views, real local experiences, and basically unforgettable memories. You will, more or less, get to explore the magic of the Irish coast.

1. Galway Bay Sailing Cruise

Imagine, almost, the wind catching the sails as you glide across Galway Bay – yeah, sounds dreamy, right? This cruise offers almost stunning views of the coastline, together with the Aran Islands. Many tours basically include a stop at Inis Mór, the biggest of the Aran Islands, and so you can wander around ancient forts and truly feel connected to the area’s history.

Many tours operate from Galway City and offer day trips that include seeing the Cliffs of Moher from the water, which definitely is a totally unique perspective. Very local skippers share stories and insights, making the adventure much more than actually just a scenic ride. As a matter of fact, there are regular chances to spot wildlife, from seals lounging on rocks to maybe even dolphins playing in the waves. The sailing ships themselves typically tend to be comfortable and quite safe, and they provide basically an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation.

Read our full review: Galway Bay Sailing Cruise Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Galway Bay Sailing Cruise)

2. Dingle Bay Eco Tour

For a slightly closer connection to the marine life and local heritage, try this eco-tour in Dingle Bay. This trip places a lot of value on seeing the amazing natural life of the place, as it is. Tours generally last a couple of hours and typically run multiple times a day during peak season. You might be extremely lucky and even spot Fungie the Dolphin if he decides to make an appearance—though the friendly fellow has now moved on, Dingle Bay still offers a wonderful wealth of aquatic residents.

It’s almost a bit like a floating classroom, so you learn all that you could want to know about the local ecosystems. Boats tend to be small enough for that more personal feel but big enough to feel super safe even when the sea picks up. They commonly use hydrophones, so that guests could hear the underwater noises of the bay. Plus, by picking this choice, you are encouraging sustainable tourism. So, doing your bit towards preserving these incredible habitats is, really, easy.

Read our full review: Dingle Bay Eco Tour Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Dingle Bay Eco Tour)

3. Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin

Seeing the Cliffs of Moher from above is definitely one thing, that, is absolutely breathtaking, but imagine witnessing their dramatic majesty from the ocean below. The cruises leave from Doolin, a little village with plenty of culture and music, that’s close to the Cliffs of Moher. Several tours offer different things, too; shorter trips just focus on the cliffs, but other cruises stretch farther out along the coast.

The experience provides not only exceptional photos ops but, actually, great insight into the geological make-up of this location and, that is amazing. Skilled local guides generally explain what kind of birds call the cliffs home. And the ocean air adds freshness and beauty that simply is completely different than anything you would feel standing on solid ground. It’s important to dress correctly and put on warm layers, of course, so that, as you want to make your adventure much better.

Read our full review: Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Cliffs of Moher Cruise)

4. Killary Harbour Fjord Cruise

Want to view Ireland’s just majestic fjords? Check out the Killary Harbour Fjord Cruise. The glacially carved landscape, which features high slopes that descend to very peaceful waters, is the starting point for a very calm tour. Cruises sometimes happen daily, running for 90 minutes, basically depending on seasonal variations.

Cruises that provide chances for spectacular landscape viewing will definitely include background and historical info from qualified trip personnel. Passengers commonly are interested to learn of the fjord’s cultural significance, the various bird species, and the farms of mussels that flourish along its shoreline. Make definitely sure you have binoculars for just watching the untamed animals more, because you could catch sight of seabirds and perhaps even otters. It also might be a good thought to see if food and drinks are offered aboard, because dining with such scenery surely has its benefits.

Read our full review: Killary Harbour Fjord Cruise Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Killary Harbour Cruise)

5. Baltimore Harbour and Islands Sailing Trip

If seeing hidden gems in addition to mainstream destinations sounds fantastic, so then maybe schedule your spot for a Baltimore Harbour and Islands sailing journey. Baltimore, found in West Cork, basically gives travellers opportunities to discover peaceful locations by the water, especially Sherkin and Cape Clear Islands. Every island boasts its own kind of history and community feel, therefore providing a good view into Irish island customs.

You may well get to pick different sail options that enable both amateur sailors wanting instruction and basically folks merely aiming to unwind to enjoy themselves on the waters. With such boat tours and small groups, every guest commonly gets a totally unique look. Usually boats move at levels that make possible wildlife experiences, so always look above and beyond for gannets as well as seals and understand your regional sea heritage through narration provided that’s a fantastic combination. It’s obviously excellent to book in advance considering demand at a common peak moment and you shouldn’t avoid bringing that sun lotion either!

Read our full review: Baltimore Harbour and Islands Sailing Trip Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Baltimore Sailing)