Plan your visit
Planning Your Day Trip
Find everything you need to organize your boat tour, navigate Cape Clear Island, and pack for Atlantic weather conditions.
Fastnet Rock Lighthouse Tours and Cape Clear Island
The Pier, Baltimore
GPS 51.3838, -9.6002
Open directionsGetting there
Getting to the ferry departure ports.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Ferry tour from Baltimore or Schull Pier to Fastnet Rock and Cape Clear | 2.5 - 3.5 hours total (excluding island stopover) | €48-€50 adult | Run by Cape Clear Ferries. Advanced booking highly recommended as sailings are weather-dependent. |
| Car: Drive to Baltimore or Schull for ferry departures | 90 mins from Cork City to Baltimore | Free parking available but limited | Arrive at least 30 minutes early during peak season for parking. Cars are not allowed on Cape Clear Island. |
| Bus: Electric bus on Cape Clear Island | 10-45 minutes | €2-€5 | Meets incoming ferries to bring visitors around the island or provide 45-minute guided tours. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The season runs from mid-April to October. June to August offers the most reliable departures and calmest sea conditions.
What to bring
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Always arrive at least 30 minutes early during peak season.
Parking in Baltimore and Schull is free but limited.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your 6-hour excursion.
A complete 6-hour loop departing from Baltimore, including a 2.5-hour island stopover.
- Depart Baltimore
Board the ferry at The Pier and sail through Roaring Water Bay.
- Arrive at Cape Clear
Disembark at North Harbour. Pick up a trail map at the Heritage Centre.
- Hike the Green Loop
Walk the 4km path for cliffside views of the Atlantic.
- Depart for the Lighthouse
Re-board the ferry to circumnavigate Fastnet Rock.
- Return to Baltimore
Arrive back on the mainland.
Practical Advice
Dress for the Atlantic. Even on sunny days, the open deck is cold. Bring a windproof and waterproof jacket, plus a warm fleece. Sturdy walking shoes are required for Cape Clear's trails.
No visitor cars are allowed on Cape Clear Island. You must walk or use the local electric bus. Buggies are permitted on ferries, but bicycles and kayaks require an extra fee and advance booking.
Easiest way to do it
Fastnet Rock Lighthouse & Cape Clear Island tour departing Baltimore. West Cork.
6 h 4.2 (36)
- Restroom on board
From$99per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you take a car on the ferry to Cape Clear Island?
No, visitor cars are not allowed on Cape Clear. You must leave your car in Baltimore or Schull. An electric bus operates on the island.
Is the boat trip to Fastnet Rock rough?
The crossing can be rough, as it enters the open Atlantic. Seas are generally calmest between June and August. Bring anti-nausea medication if you are susceptible.
What language do they speak on Cape Clear Island?
Cape Clear is an official Gaeltacht area. Irish (Gaelic) is widely spoken by the local community of around 110 people, though English is also spoken.