
Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 443 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway worth booking?
Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway is a 8.8-hour experience in Galway, Ireland, from $137 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 443 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 86 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (443)
- Duration
- 8.8 hours
- From
- $137 per person
In this groundbreaking day trip, you will get to taste the best of the west of Ireland in just a few hours. Explore Inis Oirr (the smallest of the Aran Islands), and take a cruise under the Cliffs of Moher. Coming back onto the mainland, we take in arguably the finest coastal drive in Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way back up to Galway, along with a couple of various other short stops during the day. What makes this day trip truly unique is that it is a looped route, so you are experiencing a completely different region of the West of Ireland in every hour that passes. You won’t see the same thing twice!
What you get
About this experience
In this groundbreaking day trip, you will get to taste the best of the west of Ireland in just a few hours. Explore Inis Oirr (the smallest of the Aran Islands), and take a cruise under the Cliffs of Moher. Coming back onto the mainland, we take in arguably the finest coastal drive in Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way back up to Galway, along with a couple of various other short stops during the day. What makes this day trip truly unique is that it is a looped route, so you are experiencing a completely different region of the West of Ireland in every hour that passes. You won’t see the same thing twice!
What's included
Included
- Hotel pick-up (contact the operator directly at least 24 hours before the tour to request)
- Local guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Lunch
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Arrive into Doolin Pier
Pass by without stopping
Cliffs of Moher
Experience the Cliffs of Moher from the Sea!
Pass by without stopping
O'Brien's Castle
Check out the ruins of O'Brien's Castle while on Inis Oirr - from a distance or up close!
Pass by without stopping
Inisheer
Visit the island of Inis Oirr
150 minutes here
Plassey Wreck
If you choose to, you can get a horse and cart ride (fee is not included) out to the Plassey Shipwreck!
Pass by without stopping
Doolin Pier
Take a ferry ride back to the mainland from Inis Oírr
30 minutes here · Admission included
Wild Atlantic Way
You'll take the Wild Atlantic Way from Galway to Doolin, and from Rossaveal to Galway.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Galway
We meet outside the Hyde Hotel at 9am for tour check-in. Look out for the Lally Tours Team in their blue jackets!
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
We meet outside the Hyde Hotel at 9am for tour check-in. Look out for the Lally Tours Team in their blue jackets!
Options you can book
Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway
Private Tour
Private Tour
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Lally Tours
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- For complimentary hotel pick-up please contact the tour operator at least 24 hours in advance
- Infants under 5 years of age require a child seat (These are not supplied by the company)
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
- *Please note that the ferry crossings and Cliffs Cruise are both weather dependant and as such, the tour route is subject to change. On rare occasions the advertised route and/or timings at stops may have to be altered without notice.*
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 443 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
443 verified traveler reviews for Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Give Thought Before Booking
This is the third time that I have booked with Lally in Galway for a tour. Originally, I had booked just an Aran islands tour, but there were issues and they cancelled. Lally reached out with plenty of time and options, so I rescheduled this one that still covered part of the Aran Islands. The one thing that should have been very upfront is that this specific tour is not for those with weak stomachs or elderly. You spend at least two hours on a ferry total throughout the day. That ferry is rough on the sea, so even if you think you won’t get sea sick there is still a chance. And, any sort of fall risk should probably avoid this tour, as we had one older lady who wiped out when she had to get up. The other thing is this itinerary is slightly rushed. You get to the island and spend an hour for lunch in a pub your guide directs you to, then you have the option to walk, rent a bike, or pay for a horse carriage ride (this last was what the guide recommended most). That was honestly almost as bad as the rough seas, as for the price I would have expected no optionals. Anyways, we paid for horse carriage and there were eight of us on the ride. This was not a good experience, as the horse was either tired or the load too heavy for it to go uphill. Also, the older gentleman didn’t say anything really to the group, only made small talk to the person next to him. So, overall, we paid 15 euro a person for what amounted to wanting to get off the ride for the horse’s sake. After this, you had to get back on the ferry (about 2 hours total on island). First, it takes 30 minutes back to pier to drop passengers off, then you stay on the ferry for the sight seeing portion. This is about an hour, but it rushes to the far side of the cliffs (with rough seas) and only about 10 minutes of viewing with commentary from the boat guides. Since this isn’t just Lally, it is crowded with other tourists and you end up not seeing much besides people falling over themselves and the floor with the rocking. As for the tour guide, he was nice and knowledgeable on the ride to the ferry, but did not do much on the island or on the way back (just sang along to his music he put on). Since I’ve taken other tours with Lally, I know he could have said more about the two quick photo stops at cliffs edge and the castle (10-15 each). Overall, while I would tour again with Lally from my experiences prior to this, I don’t think I would recommend this tour. I believe the Cliffs of Moher and the Kylemore Abbey tours were much better and more worth the money.
via Tripadvisor
Richie, the amazing guide on an amazing day
Richie Forde was our driver/guide and he was exceptional. From the moment he picked us up, he was informative, friendly, knowledgeable, kind, looked after us in every way , answered all our questions and made the day one of our best in Ireland. The day was full, and we saw and did everything one could fit into a tour day. We even got Richie to ride an e-bike which he had never done but did so we could see the whole of the island in the time slotted. We can’t say enough good things or thank Richie enough for a wonderful day!
via Tripadvisor
Killarney Gem #2
This tour was simply awesome. Our guide Brian was stellar. He shared history, anecdotes and was truly an expert. He was funny and poignant and a true joy to spend the day with. It did not hurt that he spent a few years in Boston where we are from. The Cliffs are stunning in their own right and seeing the Aran Islands at the same time was a bonus and would highly recommend doing both. This was a small group offering and it was more intimate and conversational throughout the day. Brian set the gold standard for a guide and my husband, and I have been on many tours traveling and Brian's energy and passion about Ireland really shone through.
via Tripadvisor
Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands
Had a wonderful day trip of the Cliffs of Moher and one of the Aran Islands. Our tour guide Kenny did a great job of taking care of us. He was knowledgeable and entertaining! Would highly recommend this tour when in Ireland!
via Viator
Great way to view the Cliffs of Moher and experience one of Aran Islands
We loved this small group tour to the Cliffs of Moher and the island of Inisheer. Our driver/guide was excellent and provided great descriptions of the Burren on the way to the Doolin pier and kept great track of our small group, making sure we all were on the ferry at the end of our time on the island. We made a few stops on the way to the cliffs and could get out to photograph scenic sites. The views of the cliffs were amazing and it was fun to explore the island. We did the horse and buggy ride to get around the island and walked a bit too. The fee seemed reasonable as we really had a great experience for the money. The day was about 9.5 hours from leaving our hotel to returning to the meeting spot and it was nice not to have to drive ourselves on those narrow roads. We would definitely would recommend this small group tour to the cliffs and island.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8.8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $137 to $610
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 155
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Lally Tours, who run 7 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 85.7 and 3 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Lally Tours runsWhy this scores 86
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Galway.
How much does Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway cost?
+
Prices start at $137 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Galway usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway take?
+
Plan for about 8.8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Galway is not rushed.
Is Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 443 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Galway, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8.8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway?
+
Around 155 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Galway can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Galway and add a light layer if any part of the 8.8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Galway within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Galway?
+
On Outty we rank every Galway experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cliffs of Moher & the Burren Tour from Galway, Galway to Aran Islands Inisheer, Doolin, Cliffs of Moher Day Tour, Galway to Cliffs of Moher, Aillwee Cave & Dunguaire Castle Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Galway?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Galway?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway?
+
Included: Hotel pick-up (contact the operator directly at least 24 hours before the tour to request); Local guide; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway?
+
We meet outside the Hyde Hotel at 9am for tour check-in. Look out for the Lally Tours Team in their blue jackets! Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Infants under 5 years of age require a child seat (These are not supplied by the company). If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway?
+
Across 443 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway?
+
There are 2 options to choose from, including Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway, Private Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway.
Pick your date



