Westport Cruises

Get ready for an unforgettable trip right from the lovely harbour of Westport, County Mayo! Westport Cruises is inviting you to find out all the enchanting secrets of Clew Bay on their brilliant 90-minute Clew Bay Cruise. Now, this isn't just any old boring boat trip; it's your chance to dive into a world of amazing natural beauty, rich sea history, and fascinating local stories. Just imagine gliding across the water, with views of that famous holy mountain, Croagh Patrick, looking massive in the background. You might even get to have a bit of a dance with the lively seal colony, and see cool legendary landmarks like John Lennon's Island (yes, that John Lennon!) and the old Inishgort Lighthouse. Get ready to hear gripping stories of pirates and sad events, all echoing the spirit of the famous Pirate Queen, Grace O'Malley, who used to rule these waters. And while you're taking it all in, you can relax in comfort with their onboard stuff—like a cosy bar, a cute little cafe, handy toilets, a breezy upper deck, and a snug, warm lounge inside for all types of weather. So, come and explore the 365 Islands of Clew Bay with us, and let the good feelings of our trip stick in your soul long after you're back on dry land!

How It All Began: A Love for Clew Bay

The history of Westport Cruises probably started with someone who really loves Clew Bay and wanted to show off all its wonders to visitors. It's a small start, might have been just one boat and a super keen local skipper who knew all the best stories and spots. Over time, by giving people brilliant trips and really looking after them, it would have grown into the well-loved tour company it is today. The story they build on is the rich sea-faring history of Westport and the lasting appeal of Clew Bay—that amazing seascape dotted with, as the local legend goes, an island for every single day of the year. The old stories aren't just told; they're all around you in the views you see from the deck.

Setting Sail: Adventure Awaits!

Your trip kicks off when you hop aboard the cruise boat in Westport Harbour, a place already buzzing with its own history and charm. As the boat pulls away from the dock and heads out into the bay, those amazing views start to open up straight away. The biggest thing you'll probably see is Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain. Its massive, pointy top, a place where people have made pilgrimages for over 1,500 years, gives an incredible southern backdrop to the bay. Your guide will share some of the "old legends and history about The Reek, as locals call it—maybe stories of saints like St. Patrick himself, who they say fasted up there.

Island Hopping

As you cruise through the (supposedly!) 365 Islands of Clew Bay, the lovely secrets of this unique place really start to show themselves. These islands, many of them small, green, egg-shaped hills left by glaciers (called drumlins), make a sheltered and complicated waterway, perfect for exploring by boat. Some islands are empty, just havens for wildlife, while others might have a lonely old house or ancient ruins, each with its own story you haven't heard.

Seal Shenanigans and Feathered Friends!

A massive highlight for loads of people is meeting the lively seal colony. Clew Bay is home to a big bunch of common (or harbour) seals, and Westport Cruises will know all the best spots to see these cute and curious creatures. Just imagine how great it is to see them chilling out on the rocks or popping their sleek, whiskered heads out of the water to have a good look at the boat passing by! This up-close meeting with fascinating wildlife is a really gripping part of the cruise, especially for families. The guides will tell you interesting facts about the seals and how they live, making sure it's a respectful and fun experience for everyone. You might spot plenty of seabirds too—cormorants, shags, maybe even some oystercatchers along the shore.

Lennon's Island and Lighthouse Legends

The trip also takes you past some really interesting landmarks. John Lennon's Island (actually Dorinish Island) is one of them. The famous Beatles bought it back in 1967 as a peaceful hideaway. Even though he didn't spend a huge amount of time there, its link to such a famous person adds a cool layer of modern pop culture history to the bay's ancient great mix. Your guide will tell you all about Lennon owning it and what he planned to do there. Then there's Inishgort Lighthouse, a sturdy old watcher that's guided ships safely through these waters for generations. Its presence tells you about the bay being an important route for boats and the toughness of the people who used to look after lighthouses in such lonely spots.

More Than Just a Boat Trip: It's a Proper Mayo Memory!

This unforgettable adventure is more than just a boat tour; it's a short but brilliant dive into nature, history, and folklore. It grabs visitors by giving a unique view of Croagh Patrick, all those islands, and the sea-faring history of Westport. It's an experience that leaves something you won't forget, a collection of loved memories of stunning views, amazing wildlife, and great stories.

So, to wrap it up, Westport Cruises offers a truly lovely and easy way to discover the many-sided beauty and history of Clew Bay. In just 90 minutes, you're taken into a world of massive views, lively wildlife, legendary pirates, and holy mountains. The mix of amazing views, interesting storytelling, and comfy stuff on board makes this Clew Bay Cruise a highlight for many people visiting Westport. It's a perfect little summary of the West of Ireland's charm, where the past meets the present on the sparkling waters of one of Ireland's most beautiful bays. The good feelings from your trip with Westport Cruises will definitely stick in your soul, proof of the magic of Clew Bay and the unforgettable experience they give you. You'll be telling your mates all about it!