Aran Island Ferries, County Galway Travel Guide

4.4 (358)

Experience the rugged beauty and rich culture of the Aran Islands with year-round ferry services from Galway and Rossaveel.

Home
Travel Guides
Ireland
County Galway
Aran Island Ferries

Aran Island Ferries provides year-round ferry services from Rossaveel and seasonal departures from Galway City to the Aran Islands. These islands, Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr, offer a unique glimpse into traditional Irish culture and breathtaking scenery.

A brief summary to Aran Island Ferries

First Floor, Forster St, Galway, H91 FXA6, IE
Click to display
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aran Island Ferries.

Check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during peak season, and book your tickets online to ensure a spot.
If traveling from Rossaveel, allow at least one hour driving time from Galway City.
Consider taking the shuttle bus from Galway City to Rossaveel to avoid parking hassles.
Bring layers of clothing, as the weather on the Aran Islands can be unpredictable.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Explore Aran Island Ferries on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Aran Island Ferries, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Galway City center (e.g., Eyre Square), Aran Island Ferries at Galway City Docks is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head southeast towards the harbor area. The ferry departs from Galway City Docks beside the Port of Galway Office. Check-in at the office before boarding.
Public Transport

From Eyre Square, several Bus Eireann and City Direct routes serve the Galway City Docks area. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Alight at a stop near the docks and proceed on foot to the Aran Island Ferries departure point.
Driving

If driving to the Galway City Docks, follow signs for the harbor. Parking is available at the Harbour Company indoor public car park, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, costing €15.00 for 24 hours. Several other car parks are within walking distance of the docks.
Shuttle Bus

Aran Island Ferries offers a daily shuttle bus service departing from Victoria Place in Galway City to the Rossaveel ferry terminal. This option is convenient for those traveling to Rossaveel. Purchase shuttle bus tickets along with your ferry ticket.

Discover more about Aran Island Ferries

Aran Island Ferries is the primary ferry operator for reaching the Aran Islands, a trio of islands steeped in Irish tradition and natural beauty. The company provides year-round ferry services from Rossaveel in Connemara, about 37 kilometers west of Galway City, and seasonal services directly from Galway City. The islands—Inis Mór (Inishmore), Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), and Inis Oírr (Inisheer)—are known for their ancient stone forts, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant Irish culture.Aran Island Ferries has a long history, tracing back to the early 1900s with the O'Brien family's trade with the Aran Islands. Today, the company operates a fleet of modern ferries, offering passengers a comfortable and scenic journey across Galway Bay. Onboard amenities include snack bars and refreshments.A trip to the Aran Islands offers visitors a chance to experience a unique way of life, where the Irish language and traditional customs are still alive. Each island has its own distinct character and attractions, from the iconic Dún Aonghasa fort on Inis Mór to the tranquil landscapes of Inis Meáin and the charming village of Inis Oírr.