Aran Islands Ferries & Flights
Ferries and Flights to Inis Mor Island, The Aran Islands from Galway
Ferries to The Aran Islands and to Aran Camping and Glamping on Inis Mor can be reached by both ferry and air all through the year. This guide to how to get to Inis Mor and the Aran Islands will help you plan your trip.
Where is Inis Mor located?
Inis Mor is one of the 3 Aran Islands located off the west coast of Ireland outside of Galway Bay. There are year around connections with the mainland with two ferry services and also air transport. Please note – it is not possible to bring your car over to the Aran islands, as the ferry services do not allow for this. Vehicles can be left at the ports and the airport before boarding.
By Ferry from Galway (Rossaveal) to The Aran Islands
The Rossaveal port is located about 20 miles away from the centre of Galway, and is the more popular access point to the Aran Islands. It is a natural stop along the Wild Atlantic Way, and also well connected with Dublin, which is just a few hours drive away using the M6. Galway is also well connected to Dublin and other parts of Ireland with a good train service.
Getting from Galway to the Port
A shuttle service runs from the centre of Galway to the port at Rossaveal and takes about an hour. This leaves from outside The Victoria Hotel which is around the corner from Eyre Square (Click Here for a google Map). If you are travelling by car, you can leave your vehicle at the port before boarding the ferry to the Aran Islands. Taxis are available from the centre of Galway.
The Crossing from Rossaveal with Aran Island Ferries
The ferry crossing from Rossaveal to Inis Mor takes around 40 minutes. As mentioned, no vehicles can be taken on the ferries. The ferry service from Rossaveal to Inis Mor runs all through the year, although the number of crossing may be reduced in the winter. Contact Aran Island Ferries: www.aranislandferries.com
Sailing times to Inis Mór
October – March: 10.30am, 6.00pm
April – September: 10.30am ,1.00pm, 6.30pm
Sailing times from Inis Mór
October – March: 8.15am (Monday – Saturday), 9.00am (Sunday), 5.00pm
April – September: 8.15am (Monday – Saturday), 9.00am (Sunday) 12.00pm & 5.00pm
June: 8.15am (Monday – Saturday), 9.00am (Sunday) 12.00pm, 4.00pm, 5.00pm
July – August: 8.15am (Monday – Saturday), 9.00am (Sunday), 12.00pm , 5.00pm, 6.30pm
By Ferry from Doolin
The alternative crossing to Inis Mor from the mainland of Ireland leaves from Doolin, although this is only a seasonal service running from April to October. The journey time is approximately 90 minutes, and no vehicles can be taken on the ferries. Anyone travelling by car can leave their vehicle at the newly renovated pier before boarding. The ferry crossing from Doolin is more popular with people travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way from South to North.
Getting from Doolin to the Port
Doolin itself is a relatively small rural town, although it is quite spread out, with the port at the far end. People travelling by car will have no problem reaching it, but anyone who is using public transport to travel around Ireland may need to consider taking a taxi to the port. As with the Rossaveal ferry, we would strongly suggest booking your ferry tickets in advance if you intend to stay at Aran Camping and Glamping during the popular summer months to ensure you have a place. Contact Doolin Ferries: www.doolinferries.com/ Contact Obrien Line: www.obrienline.com
Arriving on Inis Mor
No matter which ferry you decide to take to Inis Mor, you will find yourself arriving at the terminal in Kilronan, which is the main town on the island. This is a little hub of activity, where the majority of the island’s shops, bars and restaurants can be found. Aran Islands Camping and Glamping is just a short walk away, and well sign-posted. If in doubt, just ask anyone – they all know where we are!
Getting to Inis Mor By Air
Flights to Inis Mor are available via Aer Arann Islands based at Inverin (just outside of Galway). The plane only flies in good weather, and the timetable such as it is, subject to change. Contact Aer Arann Islands: www.aerarannislands.ie
