Fastnet Rock Lighthouse & Cape Clear Island Tour from Schull

Two islands, two centuries of history, and the open Atlantic in one crossing

A six-hour ferry tour from Schull in West Cork takes you across Roaring Water Bay to Cape Clear Island, where you explore standing stones, a Napoleonic Tower, Dún an Óir Castle and a 12th-century church before reboarding to circle Fastnet Rock Lighthouse twice for photographs. The route passes through protected marine habitats and offers chances to spot whales and dolphins. An English audio guide and onboard restroom are included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Ferry to Cape Clear and Fastnet Rock

• Depart from Schull harbour
• Ferry crossing through Roaringwater Bay
• Arrive at Cape Clear Island north harbour
• Explore island culture and landmarks
• Visit standing stones, Napoleonic Tower, and castle
• See 12th century church and yacht race memorial
• Enjoy lunch at island bar or restaurant
• Re-board ferry to Fastnet Rock Lighthouse
• Circle Fastnet Rock twice for photos
• Return ferry trip to final port

The experience

The ferry leaves Schull harbour and crosses the waters of Roaring Water Bay, also known as Carbery's 100 Isles, toward Cape Clear Island eight miles offshore. The island sits on the Wild Atlantic Way and is home to a year-round Irish-speaking population of 130, swelling in summer. Once you arrive at the north harbour, you have free time to walk the island on your own: the standing stones, the Napoleonic Tower, Dún an Óir Castle, and a 12th-century church are all within reach. A memorial marks the 1979 Fastnet Yacht Race Disaster. You can eat at one of the island's bars and restaurants, or simply wander and absorb the place.

After lunch, you reboard the ferry and head out to Fastnet Rock Lighthouse. The captain circles the rock twice in different directions so every passenger gets a clear photograph. On both crossings (to the island and to the lighthouse) the captain points out the real Wild Atlantic Way, and you might catch whales or dolphins passing through these protected marine habitats. The return journey takes you back through the same waters to Schull, with time to absorb the scenery as the mainland comes back into view.

What’s included

• Ferry crossing from Schull to Cape Clear Island and Fastnet Rock Lighthouse.
• free time to explore Cape Clear Island on foot.
• two passes around Fastnet Rock Lighthouse for photography.
• onboard restroom.
• English audio guide.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Jun 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (18 to 64 years) · Senior (65 to 80 years) · Youth (13 to 17 years) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (under 4)

GroupUp to 90

Audio guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Ireland Wild Escapes

Is this one for you?Book this shared ferry if you want to visit two separate locations (an inhabited island with medieval ruins and cultural sites), and have a full day to explore at your own pace rather than follow a guided itinerary.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

2 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 17 years); Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What can I actually do on Cape Clear Island during the free time there?

Cape Clear Island has standing stones, a Napoleonic Tower, Dún an Óir Castle, a 12th-century church, and a memorial to the 1979 Fastnet Yacht Race Disaster that you can explore on foot. You can also eat at the island's bars and restaurants or simply walk and take in the landscape and Irish-speaking community life.

How close do you get to Fastnet Rock Lighthouse?

The ferry circles Fastnet Rock Lighthouse twice, passing close enough that the captain positions the boat in different directions so all passengers can photograph it clearly. You see it from the water rather than landing on it.

Will I see wildlife on this tour?

Whales and dolphins pass through Roaring Water Bay and the waters around Fastnet Rock, and the captain watches for them on both the outbound and return crossings. Sightings are not guaranteed, but the route passes through protected marine habitats where they are known to appear.

Is there a toilet on the ferry?

Yes, there is a restroom onboard for the six-hour journey.

Do I need to arrange my own food and drink?

No food or drink is sold on the ferry itself, so you can eat at one of Cape Clear Island's bars and restaurants during the free time there, or bring your own supplies.