Excursion The whiddy island experience tour at Bantry

Discover the abundant beauty, charm and flavours of Whiddy Island during this relaxing, half-day sightseeing excursion via coach and ferry.

Glengarriff, Bantry Bay, Ferry-Ride and Whiddy Island

Depart Glengarriff for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to Bantry Bay, and a short ferry-ride past a mussel farm to beautiful Whiddy Island. Resting between peninsulas in Bantry Bay, Whiddy Island boasts an intriguing naval history, and enjoys a superb strategic position in one of the world's finest deep-water harbours.

Whiddy Island, Local Pub, Mussel-Baking Demonstration and Tasting

Upon arrival at Whiddy Island, disembark the ferry and meet your guide, Tim, who is also the local publican, postman and all-round hospitality King for Whiddy Island. Afterward, Tim welcomes you into his pub near the shoreline for a cooking demonstration utilising locally-farmed mussels. Afterward, enjoy a mussel tasting accompanied by a pint of Guinness or beer. Don't forget to say hello to Jeffrey, the island's cat, who has many tales to tell through his owner, Tim.

Ferry-Ride, Bantry Bay and Town, and Free Time

Leaving the pub, marvel at the stunning landscape of Whiddy Island before embarking the ferry for the short ride back to Bantry Bay. Upon arrival, some free time is made available to explore Bantry Town at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 164 yards (about 150 metres), at times over uneven surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the ferry; the walk from the gangway onto the mainland may be steep, as the water is tidal. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Walking in Bantry Town is at the discretion of each guest. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe and non-slip walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Glengarriff, Bantry Bay, Ferry-Ride, Whiddy Island, Local Pub, Mussel-Baking Demonstration and Tasting, Pint of Guinness or Beer, Free Time in Bantry.