Aran Island Ferries

Fri May 16 2008

Located in the heart of Galway Bay, the Aran Islands offer visitors a glimpse into a way of life that has long since disappeared from most of the county. The Islands’ raw beauty and charm leaves visitors longing to return again and again. While the South - West coast of the island battles with the Atlantic, the North- East coast offers smooth passage for visitors between the mainland at Ros a' Mhíl and the Islands.

The Islands’ seems to defy their size by all they have to offer: breath-taking scenery, ecclesiastical ruins from early Christian times, medieval castles, cliffs, prehistoric stone forts (including the famous Dún Aonghasa ring fort), sandy beaches, clean air, unique flora and fauna and a rich folklore that the islanders are proud to recount.

Island Ferries is owned and operated by the O’Brien family from near-by Carraroe. Their ancestors have been involved in the passenger - cargo service to the Aran Islands for generations. The original service was provided by one of the traditional Galway Hookers ‘An Tónaí’, still treasured by the family but now only used to compete in the famous ‘Galway Hooker Races’. There is still huge interest in Hooker racing among both young and old and four of these races (and their accompanying festivals) take place on the islands every year; two on Inis Mór and one each on Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr.

Aran Island Ferries staff are happy to advise visitors on any aspect of their trip from accommodation, bike hire/ mini-bus tours to evening meals. Sail in comfort and luxury with Aran Island Ferries and let us help you experience the Magic that is Aran.