Galway: Cliffs of Moher Cruise, Aran Islands & Connemara Day Trip

Summary

Cliffs, wild Atlantic air, ferries to Inis Oirr and back to Galway

You’ll ferry under the towering Cliffs of Moher, stroll windswept Inis Oirr with its castle ruins and shipwrecks, then wind back through Connemara’s wild coastline. Expect laughter with your guide, salty air in your hair, and moments where Ireland feels both ancient and alive — all in one seamless day trip from Galway.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly lost my hat before we’d even left Doolin Pier — the wind just whipped it right off. That was the first laugh of the day, and it set the tone for how unpredictable (and honestly, fun) this looped day trip from Galway would be. Our guide, Aoife, had this way of pointing out little things — a certain mossy stone wall, or how you can tell which ferry is local by the way people nod at each other. The main keyword here is variety; every hour felt like a different slice of Ireland.

The ferry ride to Inis Oirr was choppier than I expected (bring layers), but I loved how salty everything smelled — even my coffee tasted briny by the time we docked. On Inis Oirr, there’s this moment when you crest a hill and see O’Brien’s Castle in the distance. Some folks hopped on a horse cart out to that old shipwreck (I walked instead — my legs still regret it), and I tried saying “go raibh maith agat” to our driver. Li laughed when I butchered it. The island felt quiet but not lonely; you hear gulls more than cars.

Back on the boat for the Cliffs of Moher cruise, I realized photos never get it right — those cliffs just loom overhead, all shadow and green streaks. Everyone went silent for a minute except for one kid who kept asking if pirates ever hid there (honestly? It did look like pirate territory). The sea spray got everywhere but nobody seemed to care. Afterward, winding through Connemara on the Wild Atlantic Way, Aoife told us stories about An Spidéal and pointed out where Irish is still spoken daily. I kept thinking about how every bend in the road looked like a postcard until you actually smelled peat smoke drifting from some cottage chimney.

I didn’t expect to feel so tired by late afternoon — or so full of small memories. If you’re after a day trip from Galway that doesn’t double back on itself and lets you see both sea and stone in one go… well, this loop kind of sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cliffs cruise, Aran Islands, and Connemara

• Depart Galway via Wild Atlantic Way
• Pass An Spideal Gaeltacht
• Arrive at Doolin Pier
• Take cruise under Cliffs of Moher
• View O'Brien's Castle ruins on Inis Oirr
• Visit Inis Oirr island
• Optional horse and cart to Plassey Shipwreck
• Depart Inis Oirr
• Return to Galway via Wild Atlantic Way

Top questions

How long does this Cliffs of Moher & Aran Islands day trip take?

The tour is a full-day experience departing from Galway and returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this Galway day trip?

Yes, complimentary hotel pickup is available if requested at least 24 hours in advance.

Do I need to book tickets for the ferry or cruise separately?

No, ferry crossings and the Cliffs Cruise are included as part of your booking.

What should I wear or bring for this tour?

Comfortable walking shoes and layers are recommended due to variable weather and walking on uneven ground.

Can young children join this tour?

Infants under 5 require their own child seat (not provided by operator); check suitability before booking.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No lunch is included; you may want to bring snacks or purchase food during stops.

What happens if weather affects the ferry or cruise?

The route may change if weather disrupts crossings; alternative stops or refunds are offered as needed.

Are there any extra costs during the tour?

The optional horse-and-cart ride on Inis Oirr is not included in the price.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup if arranged ahead of time, all ferry crossings including under-the-cliffs cruise views at Moher, an air-conditioned vehicle throughout with a local guide sharing stories along every stretch between Galway, Doolin Pier, Inis Oirr and Connemara — plus plenty of chances to wander at your own pace before looping back home again.