Nestled along the dramatic coastline of Westport, Clew Bay Cruise offers a captivating 90-minute journey that showcases the region’s natural splendor. Guests can expect breathtaking views of the bay, Croagh Patrick, and the Inishgort Lighthouse from the comfort of a heated lounge or the outdoor viewing deck. With a maximum capacity of 50 travelers, this affordable excursion provides a unique opportunity to spot seal colonies and take in the area’s stunning landscapes. What awaits those who embark on this cruise is a chance to truly experience the beauty of Westport’s renowned Clew Bay.
Key Points
- Clew Bay Cruise offers a 90-minute scenic tour from Westport Harbour with views of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick, and Inishgort Lighthouse.
- The cruise features an outdoor viewing deck, heated lounge, binoculars, and Wi-Fi, providing a comfortable and engaging experience.
- Guests have the opportunity to see seal colonies and a small island owned by John Lennon during the tour.
- Departure is a 5-minute drive from Westport Town Centre, and boarding begins 30 minutes before the scheduled departure.
- The cruise is priced at $23.09 per person, with a flexible cancellation policy and a high recommendation rate from over 1,000 reviews.
Overview
The Clew Bay Cruise from Westport offers visitors a 90-minute experience exploring the scenic beauty of Clew Bay.
This highly-rated tour departs from Westport Harbour, providing stunning views of the bay, seal colonies, Croagh Patrick, and Inishgort Lighthouse.
Travelers can take advantage of the outdoor viewing deck, heated lounge, and onboard amenities like binoculars and Wi-Fi.
With over 1,000 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, the Clew Bay Cruise is a must-do activity for those visiting Westport, known for its rich history and stunning natural landscape.
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Highlights
One of the cruise’s main highlights is the scenic views of Clew Bay that travelers can enjoy from the outdoor viewing deck.
The cruise offers glimpses of the region’s natural wonders, including the iconic Croagh Patrick mountain and the Inishgort Lighthouse. Passengers may also spot seal colonies during the journey.
Adding to the experience is the opportunity to see the small island owned by the legendary John Lennon.
With binoculars provided on board, guests can better observe the stunning landscapes and wildlife throughout the 90-minute excursion.
Departure and Boarding
To access the Clew Bay Cruise departure point, visitors can take a 5-minute drive from Westport Town Centre via the N59.
Boarding begins 30 minutes before the cruise’s scheduled departure, so guests should arrive at least 5 minutes prior to avoid losing their spot.
The cruise has a maximum capacity of 50 travelers, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
Passengers are advised to arrive early, as seating availability is limited, and the boarding process can be confusing according to some past reviews.
Onboard Amenities
Aboard the Clew Bay Cruise, passengers can enjoy an array of onboard amenities that enhance their experience.
The outdoor viewing deck provides panoramic vistas of the stunning Clew Bay landscape.
Inside, the heated lounge offers a cozy respite, complete with binoculars to spot wildlife.
Wi-Fi connectivity allows passengers to share their journey with friends and family.
For those in need of refreshment, the on-board bar and cafe serve a selection of beverages and snacks.
These thoughtful amenities ensure that the 90-minute cruise is a comfortable and engaging exploration of the region’s natural beauty.
Pricing and Cancellation
The Clew Bay Cruise from Westport starts at $23.09 per person.
Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received upon completion. The cruise accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers.
Cancellation is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. This allows for easy planning and peace of mind.
The pricing is reasonable, considering the scenic views, knowledgeable staff, and onboard amenities.
While the cruise may be shorter than advertised, the overall experience is still enjoyable, especially for those seeking a unique perspective of Westport and the surrounding Clew Bay.
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Traveler Feedback
How do travelers rate their experiences on the Clew Bay Cruise? The tour boasts an impressive 97% recommendation rate from over 1,000 reviews, earning it a Badge of Excellence.
Positive feedback highlights the friendly and knowledgeable staff, beautiful scenery, and informative commentary, with many enjoying the experience even in poor weather.
However, some negative reviews mention the cruise being shorter than advertised and limited visibility of seals, as well as a confusing boarding process and seating availability.
The Clew Bay Cruise seems to offer an enjoyable mix of scenic beauty and local history for most travelers.
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff
- Beautiful scenery and informative commentary
- Enjoyable experience even in poor weather
Recommendations
The Clew Bay Cruise is recommended for a variety of travelers. Families will appreciate the scenic views and educational commentary, while history enthusiasts can learn about the local sights like Croagh Patrick and Inishgort Lighthouse.
Anyone visiting Westport should consider this cruise, as it provides a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Clew Bay. The onboard amenities, including the heated lounge and outdoor viewing deck, ensure a comfortable experience, even in poor weather.
Though some travelers note limitations in seal sightings, the overall consensus is that the Clew Bay Cruise is an enjoyable and informative activity.
Getting There
A 5-minute drive from Westport Town Centre via the N59 brings visitors to the Westport Harbour, the departure point for the Clew Bay Cruise.
The boarding process is straightforward:
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Arrive at least 5 minutes prior to departure to ensure a spot, as the cruise has a maximum capacity of 50 travelers.
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Accessibility is catered for, with the cruise being wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals allowed.
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Boarding begins 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, so plan accordingly to avoid any delays.
Ask Away
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take the Cruise?
The best time to take the cruise is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and the chance of seeing seals is higher. Visibility and comfort are enhanced during this period.
Is There an Audio Guide Available on the Tour?
The tour offers an audio guide to provide information about the sights and history during the cruise. It allows passengers to learn at their own pace and enhances the overall experience.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on Board?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on board, though there’s also a paid bar and cafe available. Consuming alcohol purchased off-site is not permitted, as the cruise has a licensed bar on board.
Are Life Jackets Provided for Passengers?
Yes, life jackets are provided for all passengers on the Clew Bay Cruise. The cruise operator ensures the safety of its guests by making life jackets available throughout the tour.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
The cruise offers discounted rates for seniors and students, typically around 10-15% off the standard adult fare. However, it’s best to check the website or contact the operator for the most current pricing and eligibility details.
Final Words
The Clew Bay Cruise offers a captivating 90-minute journey from Westport Harbour, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the region. With a comfortable heated lounge, outdoor viewing deck, and affordable pricing, this cruise is a must-do experience for visitors to Westport. Travelers can expect to spot seal colonies and take in breathtaking views of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick, and the Inishgort Lighthouse.
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