Aran Islands Ferry Connection Coach Tour from Galway
This is a connection, not a coach tour of the island. The coach takes your group west from Galway to the ferry at Rossaveal and is waiting when the return sailing lands. The coach does not cross; on Inis Mór the group gets around by island transport or on foot.
What the day covers
- Coach to Rossaveal ferry port
- Inis Mór ferry
- Dún Aonghasa
- Return coach to Galway
When it runs
- April to October for reliable sailings
Galway to the pier
Rossaveal is about 37 km west of Galway along the R336 coast road through Barna and Spiddal. The drive is around forty minutes, but the ferry company asks groups to allow an hour from the city and to check in thirty minutes before departure. The coach sets down at the ferry terminal, then returns to Galway or waits nearby for the evening sailing. The road takes every vehicle offered for this day, up to a 49-seat coach.
On Inis Mór
The crossing to Inis Mór takes about 40 minutes and lands at Kilronan. Dún Aonghasa is 7 km west of the village. Minibuses and bike hire operate on the island; arrange them before you sail, because the coach stays on the mainland. At the fort, the visitor centre is the start of a 1 km path that climbs over rough rock to a stone fort on an 87-metre cliff with no fence at the edge. Allow sixty to ninety minutes there, plus travel and lunch in Kilronan.
Sailings, weather and season
Book the outbound and return sailings first and build the day around them; the coach times are set from the ferry times. From April to October there are more sailings and a reliable sea, which is why the tour runs then. Ferries cancel in heavy weather. Ask the operator what happens to the coach if the return sailing changes, and keep the ferry company's contact for the day.
Is this tour suitable for older passengers?
The ferry and island minibus are fine for most people. The path up to Dún Aonghasa is steep and uneven, so some may prefer to stay near the visitor centre or in Kilronan.
What should we bring for the island?
Strong walking shoes for the fort, waterproofs, and cash or a card for island transport and lunch. The crossing can be lively, so anyone prone to seasickness should prepare.
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