FAQ

Aran Island Ferry

Doolin Ferry FAQ

Where are you located?

Our Main ticket office is the red office located at Doolin Pier. You can find us on Doolin Ferry Google Maps or Doolin Ferry Bing Maps.

Do I need to book in advance?

We recommend booking ahead particularly in the summer months. Ferry seats are limited so its best to reserve ahead to avoid disappointment.

Do I need to print out my online reservation?

You must have an online ticket confirmation saved to a mobile device or a boarding pass from our ticket office before boarding the ferry. Visit our Book Tickets page to reserve online for easy, contact-less boarding.

How early should I arrive?

Passengers should check in to our ticket office at least 30 minutes before the sailing time. We advise one hour before departure time in peak season. This allows enough time for parking and locating the ferry departure point. If you have already booked online you may go straight to the ferry for boarding.

Can I visit all three Aran Islands in one day?

The short answer is no. You need a full day to visit Inis Mor because the island is quite large. If you wish to visit more than one island we recommend staying overnight or visiting on separate days. See more Aran Island Ferry.

Sail with Us

Doolin Ferry Co. Faq

Aran Island Ferry FAQs

Is there anywhere to eat at Doolin Pier?

There is a small Refreshment Stand located on Doolin Pier for light snacks before/after your departure.

Can we bring bicycles on board?

Bicycles are permitted for overnight stays only. Please ring to inquire.

Can we bring dogs on board?

Our ferries are dog friendly. Dogs are welcome on board as long as they have a suitable restraint/lead.

Can you take a car on the ferry?

Ferries are for Passengers Only. Cars are not permitted for visiting the Aran Islands.

Is there parking at Doolin Pier?

Yes, there is a large car park at Doolin Pier. As it is run by Clare County Council it is a Pay and Display ticketing system. Please remember to have change on hand to pay for parking. See more about directions and parking.

While on board

Aran Island Ferry FAQ

Are the boats wheelchair friendly?

Ferries are wheelchair friendly and accessible for all ages from infants to seniors. We advise you to contact us in advance to assess the tides for any particular day passengers with reduced mobility wish to travel. With over 50 years of experience our staff and crew are trained and able to assist you with any special needs to best of our ability.

Is there a rescue boat on board?

Our ferries are equipped with a special rescue craft in the unlikely event of an emergency. See more about our Ferry Fleet FAQ.

Are there life jackets on board?

Life jackets are stored on board for each passenger but they are not permitted to be worn, unless there is a case of an emergency.

Which is the largest ferry in Doolin?

The ‘Aran Islands Express’ is the largest ferry sailing from Doolin to Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher.

Is there indoor seating on board?

You can enjoy comfortable coach-style seating indoors for up to 100 persons.

Doolin Ferry FAQs

Are there viewing decks on both levels?

There are several viewing decks on board with plenty of space for passengers to move about and explore the views along the way.

Is there a bar on board?

Yes, there are refreshments and a mini-bar service available on board all of our ferries.

Are there toilets on board?

Yes, there are toilets on board all our ferries.

Will the crossing be rough?

The seas of the Atlantic coast can be unpredictable. Certain days the sea is like glass and on others a little more choppy. If you are prone to motion-sickness we may recommend taking an anti-motion-sickness medication before your departure. Also if you are prone to motion-sickness sitting in the outside seating area may be best for you.

What happens if it rains?

Ireland and its west coast in particular is famous for having all four seasons of weather in one day. We recommend wearing several layers when visiting the Aran Islands. A short sleeve shirt, jumper, and a light weight rain shell is usually a safe bet. If you plan on walking and climbing the hill tops we would also recommend appropriate footwear. Ferries will not be cancelled due to rain. You may want to learn more by reading Aran Islands- What to bring?

If you are interested in taking a break in Clare then you should check out our post on  Things to do in Clare.

Once on board with Doolin Ferry Co. sit back, take in the sea air, and enjoy the views!

Cliffs of Moher

Aran Islands Ferry

Doolin Ferry operates a fast ferry fleet from Doolin to the Aran Islands. The ‘Aran Islands Express’ and ‘Doolin Express’ ferries are the largest, fastest, and most comfortable ships in Doolin.

ariel shot of Dun Aonghasa on Inis Mor, Aran Islands Ferries.

Aran Islands

Cliffs of Moher Ferry in sea

Cliffs of Moher

Doolin

Aran Island Ferry's docked at Doolin Pier

Sailing Times

Reviews
What Our Passengers Say ...

Went on a trip to the cliffs of moher and Inis Oírr thís week. Enjoyed it immensely. The staff at the office were so friendly and helpful especially Liam...

Mary Kennedy

Great experience heading over to Inisheer. Couldn't fault them, very fast crossing and extremely helpful with boarding & alighting with bikes etc. Will definitely travel again with them to...

David McNamara

Super day out on Inis Oir & amazing views & info of the cliffs on the return.

Maeve Dockrell

Our Blog

Latest News

Catch up with the latest news and events from Doolin Ferry Company.

Doolin Ferry with Inis Mór, Aran Islands in background
14 Dec 2023

Award Winning Ferry to Aran Islands

Doolin Ferry is named Best Irish Boat Tour Operator for 2023 The Doolin based ferry to the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher, was awarded Best Irish Boat Tour...

Doolin Ferry Logo
07 Dec 2023

Environmental Policy

Environmental Policy Statement The Doolin Ferry Company has crafted an environmental policy because we operate within an area of outstanding natural beauty and environmental sensitivity. Doolin Ferry recognize that...

Clare Business Excellence Award 2023 Winners Logo
24 Nov 2023

Best ferry from Doolin

Best Tourism Experience in Clare 2023.  We are thrilled to announce that Doolin Ferry was crowned the ‘Best Tourism Experience in Clare‘ at the Clare Business Excellence Awards 2023....