Nestled along Ireland’s rugged southwest coast, the Cork: Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour promises an unforgettable adventure. This captivating 6-hour excursion blends natural wonders and cultural riches, allowing participants to explore the charming Cape Clear Island and circumnavigate the iconic Fastnet Rock Lighthouse. From wildlife spotting to visiting ancient sites and savoring local cuisine, the tour caters to all ages and guarantees a memorable experience. With round-trip ferry transportation included, this immersive journey on Ireland’s picturesque coastline may just be the perfect addition to any traveler’s itinerary. What secrets might this tour uncover?
Key Points
- Comprehensive 6-hour tour exploring Cape Clear Island and the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, departing from Baltimore or Schull Harbour.
- Highlights include experiencing traditional island culture, circumnavigating the historic lighthouse, and spotting wildlife like whales and dolphins.
- Tour includes round-trip ferry transportation, knowledgeable guides, and opportunities to visit ancient sites and cultural attractions.
- Suitable for adults, children, and seniors, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
- Priced at £48.91 per person, with a well-organized itinerary and positive customer reviews for value and experience.
Tour Overview
The Cork: Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour is a 6-hour excursion that takes participants to Ireland’s most southerly inhabited island and the world-famous Fastnet Rock Lighthouse.
Priced from £48.91 per person, the tour includes round-trip ferry transportation, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the opportunity to explore the island’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Visitors can discover ancient standing stones, a Napoleonic tower, a 12th-century church, and the iconic lighthouse, while keeping an eye out for whales, dolphins, and migratory birds.
The tour is suitable for a range of participants, from adults to children and seniors, and features knowledgeable guides and reliable transportation.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cork.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can explore Cape Clear Island, Ireland’s most southerly inhabited island, and experience the island’s traditional culture and way of life. They’ll discover ancient standing stones, a Napoleonic tower, Dún an Óir Castle, and a 12th-century church. While exploring the island, they may spot whales, dolphins, and migrating birds. The tour also takes visitors to the world-famous Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, where they can circumnavigate the lighthouse and learn about its history. Throughout the tour, visitors can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
Highlights | |
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Cape Clear Island | Experience traditional island culture and life |
Fastnet Rock Lighthouse | Circumnavigate the lighthouse and learn its history |
Wildlife Spotting | Whales, dolphins, and migrating birds |
Cultural Attractions | Ancient standing stones, Napoleonic tower, castle, and church |
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with a ferry trip departing from either Baltimore or Schull, crossing the Roaring Water Bay to reach Cape Clear Island.
Once on the island, participants enjoy free time to explore the rich culture and heritage, including ancient standing stones, a memorial for the 1979 Fastnet Yacht Race Disaster, and walking trails.
Visitors can also experience the local cuisine at bars and restaurants, sampling fresh island produce.
The final highlight of the tour is a circumnavigation of the world-famous Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, providing an opportunity to learn about its history and capture stunning photographs of this iconic landmark.
Inclusion and Exclusions
Included in the tour are the ferry transportation to Cape Clear Island and Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and all food and drinks. Gratuities are also covered. However, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and bringing large bags or luggage is not allowed.
Included | Not Included | Not Suitable |
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Ferry Transportation | Luggage or Large Bags | People with Mobility Impairments |
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off | – | – |
Food and Drinks | – | – |
The tour give you a comprehensive and enjoyable experience exploring the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the region while ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Participants for this tour can include:
- Adults aged 15-64
- Children aged 3-14
- Infants aged 2 and under
- Seniors aged 65-99
- Students aged 18-99 with valid ID
The meeting point varies depending on the option booked, with departures from either Baltimore Harbour or Schull Harbour.
Travelers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour involves some walking and exposure to the elements.
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, and large bags or luggage aren’t allowed.
Customer Reviews
Travelers’ reviews of the Cork: Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour overwhelmingly praised the friendly and knowledgeable staff, with a 5/5 rating for the tour guides.
Reviewers consistently noted the well-organized nature of the tour and their delight at spotting dolphins during the journey. The tour’s value for money also received positive feedback, with a 4.4/5 rating.
Notable highlights from customer reviews include:
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‘The staff were incredibly friendly and made the tour a truly enjoyable experience.’
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‘Seeing the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse up close was a highlight, and the guide provided fascinating historical details.’
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‘We were lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins playing in the waves – a magical moment!’
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‘The tour was well-paced and allowed us to explore the island at our own pace.’
Departure Locations
The Cork: Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour departs from two different harbor locations – Baltimore Harbour and Schull Harbour. Depending on the option booked, travelers can choose to start their adventure from either of these picturesque harbors.
Baltimore Harbour, situated on the southern coast of County Cork, offers a convenient departure point. Alternatively, Schull Harbour, located further west, provides another accessible starting point.
Both harbors are well-equipped to facilitate the ferry trips to Cape Clear Island and the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse. Regardless of the departure location, the tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Pricing and Booking
The tour is priced at £48.91 per person and can be booked easily online, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Guests have the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour lasts 6 hours, and availability can be checked for starting times.
Whether you’re an adult, child, senior, or student, this tour is suitable for participants aged 3 to 99.
To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes before the departure time.
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Easy online booking with reserve now, pay later option
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Suitable for a wide range of participants, from 3 to 99 years old
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Arrive 15 minutes early for a stress-free start to the tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves walking and exploring areas that may not be wheelchair accessible. Participants must be able to navigate uneven terrain and board ferries to reach the destinations.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
No, pets are generally not allowed on tours. The tour operator states that the tour is "Not Suitable For" people with mobility impairments, which likely includes those traveling with pets. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any exceptions.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?
The tour has age restrictions for children. Children aged 3-14 are welcome on the tour, but infants 2 and younger are also allowed. There are no age restrictions for adults or seniors.
Can I Get a Refund if the Weather Is Bad?
Yes, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance if the weather is bad, providing a full refund. This policy allows customers to receive their money back if conditions make the tour unsafe or unenjoyable.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Unfortunately, there is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 6 hours and does not offer any extensions. Customers must book the standard 6-hour tour if they want to experience the full itinerary.
Recap
The Cork: Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour offers a captivating 6-hour excursion that combines stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Priced at £48.91 per person, the tour includes round-trip ferry transportation, allowing participants to explore the charming Cape Clear Island and circumnavigate the historic Fastnet Rock Lighthouse.
This immersive experience caters to all ages and guarantees a memorable adventure on Ireland’s picturesque coast.
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