Clew Bay Cruise: 90-Minute Islands & Seal Colony Tour

Summary

Westport’s wild islands, Croagh Patrick views, and seal colony moments

You’ll set out from Westport for a 90-minute Clew Bay cruise with live commentary and an easygoing local guide. See Croagh Patrick rising above the water, pass John Lennon’s private island, spot lively seals basking nearby, and warm up with coffee or a drink on board as Atlantic air fills your lungs.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first thing that hit me — that salty smell when we pulled away from Westport Harbour, with gulls circling and this low hum from the boat’s engine. Our guide (I think her name was Maura?) started telling us how the harbour used to be one of Ireland’s busiest, which honestly surprised me. It’s quiet now, just a few fishermen waving as we glided past. There was a group of local kids up top who kept pointing at every little island like they were counting them — “That’s number 27!” one shouted. I lost track after five.

The water was glassy in some spots, then suddenly choppy near the oyster farms — you could actually see the rows under the surface if you squinted. We passed where that Achill Disaster happened (Maura got kind of quiet talking about it), and then Croagh Patrick just appeared out of nowhere on the left, all misty and huge. You can’t really get how big it is until you’re looking up from the bay. Someone asked about climbing it and Maura just laughed — “You wouldn’t catch me fasting for forty days up there.”

There was this weird moment when we floated by John Lennon’s island — I didn’t even know he had one here? The guide played a bit of Beatles music over the speakers, which felt cheesy but also kind of perfect. Then suddenly everyone rushed to one side because someone spotted seals. They were everywhere — flopped on rocks, popping their heads up in the water like they were eavesdropping on us. The boat got close but not too close; you could hear them snuffling and barking over the engine noise.

I grabbed a coffee from the bar downstairs (not bad actually), then went back up to watch Inishgort Lighthouse come into view. The wind picked up so much I had to hold onto my hat. By then my hands were freezing but I didn’t want to miss anything — there’s something about being surrounded by all those tiny islands that makes you feel small in a good way, you know? I keep thinking about that last stretch before heading back, when everyone just went quiet for a second watching Clare Island in the distance.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Clew Bay 90-minute sightseeing cruise

• Begin with Westport Harbour history
• Pass Clew Bay oyster farms
• View Achill Disaster site
• Admire Croagh Patrick mountain
• See Maharishi Island of Peace
• Cruise among southern islands
• Visit John Lennon's island
• View Inishgort Lighthouse
• Spot Clare Island in distance
• Observe seal colony habitat

Top questions

How long is the Clew Bay cruise from Westport?

The cruise lasts 90 minutes in total.

Are there restrooms available on board?

Yes, there are restrooms available on board the ship.

Is there food or drink served during the cruise?

There is an onboard bar and café where you can purchase drinks and snacks.

Will I see seals during this Clew Bay cruise?

You’ll likely see seals; the route passes through their colony habitat but sightings depend on their location.

Does this tour include live commentary?

Yes, there is live guided commentary throughout the cruise.

Is pickup included for this Clew Bay cruise?

No hotel pickup is included; boarding is at Westport Harbour with free onsite parking available.

Is this Clew Bay cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and boarding are wheelchair accessible.

What landmarks will I see during this cruise?

You’ll see Croagh Patrick, John Lennon’s island, Inishgort Lighthouse, oyster farms, and more islands across Clew Bay.

What’s included

Your day includes free onsite parking at Westport Harbour before boarding a modern passenger ship with enclosed heated lounge, upper viewing deck, onboard WiFi and toilets. There’s live guided commentary throughout your 90-minute Clew Bay cruise plus an onboard bar and café for drinks or snacks along the way.