Ferry Services to the Islands
of Roaringwater Bay
West Cork, Ireland.
See Below of Page for Ferry Time Tables and Directional Details + Map
The Islands
Washed by the warm Gulf Stream and the mild moist south winds are within the area of West Cork, Locally known as the Carbery Hundred Isles -
Heir Island, Long Island, Sherkin Island & Cape Clear Island
AN IDEAL ATTRACTION FOR THOSE WHO FEEL A NEED TO EXPLORE.
Heir Island - Inis Uí Drisceoil
Approx. 2.5km long & 1.5km wide
This island is easily walked and cycled and there are a lot of safe and sandy beaches, ideal for sailing, windsurfing, swimming and diving. Towards the area south of the island known as the “Reen” there is a vibrant reed bed where you will find many unusual birds as well as over 200 varieties of wild flowers scattered all over the island. Beautifully located to the west of the isle of Heir over the bridge of Paris is the area known as the “Doon's” (An Dúin) with panoramic views, surrounded by Sherkin, Cape Clear, the Calf Islands, the East & West Skeams and further to the North: Horse, Castle, Carthies, Long- Islands with the breathtaking view of Mount Gabriel- Schull. Heir Island also boasts in being home to many well known artists, who were drawn to the island because of its picturesque landscape and peaceful atmosphere. Food lovers are also drawn far and wide to the island to get a table at an evening Restaurant, though no pubs, Heir has quality B&BS and self catering homes.
Heir Island is undoubtfully a great place to get away from it all
Long Island - Inis Fada
Approx. 4.8km long & 0.8km wide
In this Island there are some fine walks, sandy beaches, wild flora & fauna and most importantly this isle gives you the chance to kick back and take it all in at your own pace, in view of the White Tower Lighthouse to the East & landing steps which marks the entrance to Schull bay or on towards the western pier and simply admire the old stone cottage ruins which brings you to a wonderful sense of isolation from modern life.
The Island of Long offers a gentle escape from the humming sound and pace of cosmopolitan Schull.
Sherkin Island - Inis Earcáin
Approx. 4.8km long & 2.4km wide
This island is steeped in history and is the ancestral home of the O'Driscoll Clan; with they're castle Fort of the Ships (Dún na Long) which was built in 1460 by Fineen O'Driscoll later destroyed by neighboring seafarers in 1537 and thus lies in ruin to this present day on view just above the main pier a 15th century Franciscan Friary ruin and lies in wait for you to explore. The Island has over 5 mile of road which lead to many strands and it is recommended when walking to relax and unwind in the splendid surroundings of Sherkin Island. During the summer months there are lively music sessions. Sherkin has much to offer in the way of natural beauty and peaceful surroundings and this together with its vibrant community makes it a perfect destination for that special visit.
Spend the day on Sherkin
(Cape) Clear Island - Oileán Chléire
Approx. 4.8km long & 1.6km wide
Cape Clear is Ireland's most southerly inhabited island and is a must for walking enthusiasts beginning with the approach by boat to its sparkling harbour, the islands cliffs, bogs, and lake, will contribute to a feeling of an unspoilt charm. th Places of interest are of the Standing stones, a 5000-year-old passage tomb, a 12 th century church ruin, a 14 century O 'Driscoll castle, in this lively Irish speaking isle there is plenty to do, with its many accommodation venues why not consider staying the night and soaking in the nightlife atmosphere and while you're there you can take the opportunity to brush up on your “Cúpla Focail”.
No better place for a welcome feeling.
Also Available
Angling Trips, Whale, Dolphin and Seal Watching
Diving, Coastal Cruises, Children's Nature trips,
Island Tours, Photography Cruises, Fastnet Trips,
Pleasure Boating, River Navigation and Family Outings
Ferry Service Timetables
How to find Cunnamore or Colla Pier
Take the N71 going west from the Hospitable West Cork Capital Town of Skibbereen (An Sciobairín) heading in direction to the Mizen Head - Peninsula (Carn Uí Néid – Leathinis) and if you feel like dropping into Heir Island or Sherkin Island take a turn left after Church Cross (Cnoc na Rátha) Where sign posted >Loughmarsh (Loch Na Curchaise) and follow all the sign posts to Cunnamore (Conomar).
Even if you missed your first turn don't worry as there is another chance to turn left after Hollyhill where sign posted >Lisheen (Liosín) which will take you to direction of Cunnamore and there you'll meet the Ferry to Heir Island, the “Miss Josephine”.
Though if you prefer to visit Long Island, stay on the N71 which will bring you through Aughadown (Achadh Dún) leading onto a beautiful scenic route to the Idyllic Village of Ballydehob (Béal an Dhá Chab) carry onwards west on the R592 Road to the Coastal village of Schull (An Scoil), carry on through and take a left turn at the Public Library and follow the road past the Local Cemetery (in the old section of the cemetery is the 1843 / 1848 Great Famine Burial site also lies the ruins of St Mary's Church) until you come to Colla Pier and there you'll meet the Ferry to Long Island, the “MV Norvic”.
