Boat Tours
Tour Options
Explore Killarney’s Scenic Wonders with Our Traditional Boat Tours
Discover the beauty of Killarney National Park by land and water with our unforgettable Gap of Dunloe Traditional Boat Tours. Walk, ride, sail, and soak in some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery — all in one timeless experience.
Option 1: Bus & Boat Experience
Start: 10am from Ross Castle (Stone Bridge)
Finish: Return to Ross Castle
Step 1 – Coach Transfer
Travel by coach to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, gateway to the legendary Gap of Dunloe.
Step 2 – The Gap Experience
Journey through a 10km mountain pass between MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain.
Explore by foot or pony & trap (arranged locally).
Pass five glacial lakes linked by the River Loe.
Step 3 – Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour (2pm)
Depart from Lord Brandon’s Cottage and cruise through the spectacular Lakes of Killarney.
Along the way you’ll experience:
- Ancient oak woodlands
- The Meeting of the Waters
- Shooting the rapids at Old Weir Bridge (water levels permitting)
- Dinis Cottage
- Historic copper mines
- Inisfallen Island
A truly immersive Irish adventure combining scenery, heritage, and tradition
Option 2: Self-Guided Boat & Cycling Tour
Departure: 10:00–10:30am from the main pier at Ross Castle
Enjoy a flexible, self-paced adventure across the stunning Lakes of Killarney.
How it works:
- Boat transfer to Lord Brandon’s Cottage
- Bring or hire a bike
- Cycle through the spectacular Gap of Dunloe
- Return to Killarney at your own pace
Perfect for those who love freedom, fresh air, and unforgettable scenery.
Please Note: Advance booking is essential for all tour options.
Tour Schedule
Boats
- 10:30am – Depart Ross Castle
- 2:00pm – Depart Lord Brandon’s Cottage
Coach
- 10:00am – Depart Ross Castle Car Park
(First car park on the right as you enter the castle grounds.)
Ponies & Horse-Drawn Traps
These run throughout daylight hours. The following are the hours to or from the boats at Lord Brandon’s Cottage:
- 11:00am – From Kate Kearney’s Cottage
- 2:00pm – From Lord Brandon’s Cottage
Please Note
- Times may change or be cancelled due to weather conditions.
- Flexible scheduling available for group bookings.