Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe)

The boat-only ticket for the Gap of Dunloe offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience Killarney’s natural beauty. Departing from Ross Castle’s Reen Pier, the scenic boat ride across the lakes sets the stage for an independent hike through the picturesque Gap. As travelers enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings, they’ll find themselves drawn deeper into the region’s captivating landscapes. With the tour concluding at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, the experience provides a peaceful end to the day’s adventure.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Killarney.

Key Points

• The Boat Only Ticket provides a scenic boat ride across Killarney’s lakes, departing from Ross Castle’s Reen Pier at 11 am.
• The self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe is not included in the boat ticket and must be undertaken independently.
• The tour concludes at Lord Brandon’s Cottage in Beaufort, Co. Kerry, offering opportunities for further exploration.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness, unsuitable for those with certain medical conditions.
• The meeting point at Ross Castle’s Reen Pier is easily accessible via public transportation.

Tour Overview

The tour begins with a scenic boat ride across Killarney’s lakes, followed by a self-guided walk through the picturesque Gap of Dunloe.

Passengers will embark on the red boats at the Ross Castle pier, departing at 11am. The boat ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

After reaching the end of the lakes, travelers will disembark at Lord Brandon’s Cottage and can then explore the Gap of Dunloe at their own pace.

This self-guided portion of the tour allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, taking in the rugged landscapes and serene atmosphere.

The tour provides a well-balanced experience, blending the tranquility of a scenic boat ride with the adventure of an independent hike.

Included in the Tour

The boat ticket is the only item included in this tour. It provides a scenic boat ride on Killarney’s lakes, which is the main attraction of this excursion.

Travelers will depart from the Ross Castle’s Reen Pier at 11 am, where the red boats are ready to take them on a peaceful journey across the serene waters.

The boat ride is the sole component of this package, as the self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe isn’t covered by the ticket. Guests are responsible for organizing and completing this portion of the experience independently.

The tour concludes at Lord Brandon’s Cottage in Beaufort, Co. Kerry, where travelers can continue their exploration on their own.

Meeting Point and Departure Time

Travelers depart from the Ross Castle’s Reen Pier at 11 am, where the red boats are ready to take them on the scenic boat ride across Killarney’s lakes.

The meeting point is clearly marked, ensuring an easy and smooth start to the tour.

Once aboard, the journey begins, with the boats gliding across the serene waters, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The departure time is convenient, providing ample time for travelers to reach the pier and begin their adventure.

Whether it’s a solo excursion or a group outing, the on-time departure sets the stage for an unforgettable experience exploring the breathtaking Killarney lakes.

End Point

After the serene boat ride, travelers disembark at Lord Brandon’s Cottage in Gearhameen, Beaufort, Co. Kerry, marking the end of this scenic adventure. The cottage, nestled in the stunning landscape, provides a peaceful conclusion to the tour. Visitors can explore the charming building and its surroundings, taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains and lakes.

Facility	Amenities
Lord Brandon’s Cottage	– Historic building – Scenic views – Peaceful setting – Opportunity for further exploration – Marks the end of the tour

With the boat ride and the self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe complete, travelers can reflect on the memorable experience they’ve had on this Killarney tour.

Accessibility Considerations

Accessibility on this tour is limited, as the boat ride and self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe aren’t wheelchair accessible. However, service animals are permitted.

This tour may not be suitable for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions, as it requires moderate physical fitness.

The tour’s proximity to public transportation means it’s accessible for those able to reach the meeting point at Ross Castle’s Reen Pier.

Recommended for Travelers

While the tour’s accessibility may be limited, it’s well-suited for travelers seeking a scenic boat ride and self-guided walk through the stunning Gap of Dunloe, provided they possess the required moderate physical fitness.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart issues, or who are pregnant, as the walk through the Gap of Dunloe can be physically demanding. However, travelers with service animals are welcome to join.

The tour’s maximum capacity of 12 guests ensures a more intimate experience, and its proximity to public transportation makes it accessible for those relying on it.

Group Size

The tour limits its group size to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience for those embarking on the scenic boat ride and self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe.

With a smaller group, travelers can better connect with the natural beauty of the surroundings and have more opportunities to ask questions and engage with the guide.

This intimate setting also allows for a more attentive and tailored approach, catering to the unique needs and preferences of each traveler.

The small group size contributes to a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, making the overall tour a truly memorable experience.

Additional Information

Along With the intimate group size, there are a few other important considerations for those interested in the boat ticket and self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. It’s located near public transportation, making it accessible for many visitors.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or anyone with heart issues, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

This self-guided experience may not be suitable for all travelers, so it’s crucial to carefully review the additional information before booking to ensure it aligns with your abilities and health needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the scenic boat ride through Killarney’s lakes. The tour operator encourages guests to pack a snack or picnic to enjoy during the journey.

Is There a Toilet on the Boat?

The tour includes a boat ride, and there are toilet facilities available on the boat. Passengers can use the restrooms during the scenic journey across Killarney’s lakes.

Can I Get off the Boat at Any Point During the Tour?

Passengers can get off the boat at any point during the tour. However, the designated end point is Lord Brandon’s Cottage, where the tour concludes. Disembarking at other locations along the route is not permitted.

Is There a Guide on the Boat to Provide Commentary?

The tour does not include a guide on the boat. Passengers take a self-guided boat ride across Killarney’s lakes. Commentary is not provided, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenic views at their own pace.

Can I Extend My Time at the End Point if I Wish?

Travelers can extend their time at the end point, Lord Brandon’s Cottage, if they wish. However, the boat ticket does not include additional time beyond the tour’s scheduled duration. Arrangements for extended stays would need to be made separately.

Recap

The Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe) offers a serene boat ride across Killarney’s lakes, followed by an independent hike through the picturesque Gap of Dunloe.

Travelers can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and countryside, blending the tranquility of the boat ride with the adventure of a self-guided trek.

The tour concludes at Lord Brandon’s Cottage in Beaufort, providing a peaceful end to the excursion.