Galway isn’t just about lively pubs and bustling streets; it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Ireland’s stunning waterways. The city’s location along the River Corrib and proximity to the Atlantic coast make it a prime spot for boat tours that showcase the area’s natural beauty and historical charm. Whether you’re interested in a relaxing cruise, an island adventure, or a full-day tour along the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway offers options that suit different tastes and schedules. We’re particularly fond of the Scenic Cruise of Corrib River and Lake for its peaceful atmosphere and insightful commentary, and the Cliffs of Moher cruise combined with Bunratty Castle for a full immersion into Ireland’s scenic coast and heritage.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of cruises and boat tours around Galway, including:
- A short, scenic river cruise perfect for a relaxing trip within the city (Galway: Scenic Cruise of Corrib River and Lake)
- A full-day tour to the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher, combining island exploration with dramatic sea views (From Galway; Aran Islands day Tour & Cliffs of Moher cruise)
- A multi-region adventure visiting Connemara, Inis Oírr, and the Burren, offering diverse landscapes and experiences (From Galway: Connemara, Aran Islands, Cruise & Burren tour)
- An up-close sea view of the Cliffs of Moher combined with a visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, perfect for history and scenery lovers (Galway: Cliffs of Moher Cruise, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park)
Now, let’s look at each in detail to help you pick the perfect water adventure.
1. Galway: Scenic Cruise of Corrib River and Lake
This 1.5-hour cruise aboard the luxurious Corrib Princess offers a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. Departing right from Galway’s heart, you’ll glide along the River Corrib into Lough Corrib, Ireland’s largest lake. The experience is perfect for anyone wanting a relaxing taste of Galway’s natural beauty without straying far from town.
What makes this cruise stand out is its ability to combine stunning scenery with engaging commentary. The captain shares stories about local castles, wildlife—like swans and ducks—and historical sites along the waterway. Many reviews highlight the informative guides and friendly staff, with one noting, “The skipper was a great guide and told us everything we needed to know.” The boat offers unobstructed views, making it ideal for photography or just soaking up the calm water and greenery.
Additional highlights include the chance to see Irish wildlife, enjoy live traditional music, and even sample Irish coffee during the trip, making it a well-rounded, short introduction to Galway’s waterways. It’s a perfect choice if you’re short on time but want a genuine Irish experience.
Bottom line: A peaceful, informative cruise offering a taste of Galway’s countryside and waterway life—great for families, solo travelers, or anyone seeking a tranquil outing.
2. From Galway; Aran Islands day Tour & Cliffs of Moher cruise
This 8-hour tour provides a full-day adventure combining sea, island, and coastal highlights. Starting at Galway Harbour, you’ll board a 400-capacity ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. The trip offers breathtaking sea views and a chance to explore Ireland’s rugged coastlines from the water.
Once on Inishmore, a native guide takes you around the island, including a hike to Dun Aengus Fort and visits to traditional knitting shops. The tour also includes free time in Kilmurvey village, where you can browse local artisan crafts or enjoy a meal in a traditional Irish pub. Afterward, the boat takes you to the Cliffs of Moher, where you can marvel at the towering sea cliffs and possibly spot marine life, thanks to the marine viewing options onboard.
This tour’s uniqueness is in its combination of island exploration and coastal sightseeing in one day, with the ferry ride itself being a highlight. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the stunning scenery. During the ferry crossing, you’ll experience oceanic views that make you feel truly connected to Ireland’s dramatic coastline.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers who want to see both the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher in one day, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Ireland’s coast and traditional culture.
3. From Galway: Connemara, Aran Islands, Cruise & Burren tour
This 8-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Ireland’s western landscapes. It combines a ferry ride under the Cliffs of Moher, visits to Inis Oírr, and exploration of Connemara and the Burren region—all with a small-group setting that ensures personal attention.
What makes this tour special is its diversity. You’ll see the rugged Connemara coastline, pass by the Blackhead Lighthouse, and explore the charming Inis Oírr, known for its sandy beaches and traditional settlements. The ferry ride under the Cliffs of Moher is a highlight for its dramatic views from below the cliffs, offering a perspective you can’t get from land alone. The trip continues through wildflower-draped hills and limestone karsts of the Burren, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks.
The guide’s local insights make the trip memorable, and the luxury midi-coach ensures a comfortable ride. It caters well to those wanting a full-day immersive experience with a mix of nature, history, and culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, all-in-one day trip that combines scenic ferry rides, island charms, and stunning landscapes along the Wild Atlantic Way.
4. Galway: Cliffs of Moher Cruise, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
This 8-hour tour offers a multi-layered experience—starting with a sea cruise to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, followed by a visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. It’s ideal for those wanting a blend of scenic coastlines, historical sites, and Irish culture.
The Cliffs of Moher cruise brings you close to the towering sea cliffs, giving a different perspective from the usual land-based viewpoints—your boat will navigate right along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the cliffs from below and above. After this, the tour visits Bunratty Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress with a self-guided tour that transports you back in time. You’ll also explore Doolin Village, famous for its traditional pubs and music, making it a lively stop for lunch.
Finally, the tour drives through the Burren landscape, known for its lunar-like limestone terrain and stunning vistas of Galway Bay. The trip wraps up with stops at Dunguire Castle in Kinvara.
This tour has consistently high reviews for its diverse itinerary and friendly guides. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a full-day experience blending natural beauty with Irish history.
Bottom line: An all-around excellent option for those who want to see the Cliffs of Moher from a different angle and enjoy historic sites on the same trip.
How to Choose the Best Cruise or Boat Tour in Galway
When deciding which tour fits your interests, consider your budget, time availability, and curiosity. For a quick, relaxing escape, the Scenic Cruise of Corrib River is perfect. If you’re eager to combine island exploration with coastal scenery, the full-day Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher tour offers great value. For those wanting diverse landscapes and a comprehensive experience, the Connemara, Aran Islands, and Burren day trip hits all the marks. Lastly, if you love sea views and history, the Cliffs of Moher from the sea plus Bunratty Castle provides a unique perspective and cultural insights.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment. Consider your fitness level: some tours involve short hikes or walking, so plan accordingly. For lovers of Irish culture, pairing a boat tour with experiences like visiting local pubs or historic castles can enrich your trip.
Final Thoughts
Galway offers a rich variety of water-based adventures that showcase everything from tranquil lakes and lively coastlines to island treasures. For short visits, the Galway Scenic Cruise offers a peaceful, informative experience. If you have a full day, the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher tour balances scenic beauty with cultural exploration. For those seeking a full immersion into the wild Atlantic landscape, the Connemara, Aran Islands, and Burren tour provides a deep dive into Ireland’s rugged scenery. And for a sea-level perspective on the Cliffs of Moher, the boat cruise combined with a castle visit is hard to beat.
Whatever your style, Galway’s water tours promise memorable views and stories of Ireland’s coast and countryside. Book ahead, pack your camera, and get ready to enjoy Ireland from the water — it’s one of the best ways to see the country’s natural beauty.