Boat Tours
Tour Options
Explore Killarney’s Scenic Wonders with Our Traditional Boat Tours
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Killarney National Park with our Gap of Dunloe Traditional Boat Tours. Whether you’re exploring the tranquil lakes, hiking through the Gap of Dunloe, or cycling along scenic trails, our tours offer the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and history of Killarney.
Gap of Dunloe Boat Tour – A Timeless Irish Adventure
Option 1: Bus & Boat Experience
Begin your journey from the Stone Bridge at Ross Castle at 10am, where a comfortable coach transports you seven miles to the legendary Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the northern entrance of the Gap of Dunloe. This stunning mountain pass, nestled between MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain, stretches approximately 10 km and offers a captivating hiking or pony-and-trap experience.
As you make your way through the Gap, you’ll pass five stunning glacial lakes connected by the River Loe, all surrounded by towering peaks. Upon reaching Lord Brandon’s Cottage, you can enjoy a light lunch before embarking on the boat tour at 2pm.
From Lord Brandon’s Cottage, set sail on a scenic boat trip through the three interconnected Lakes of Killarney. Along the way, marvel at the majestic oak woodlands of Derrycunnihy and Tomies Mountains, witness the famous Meeting of the Waters, and experience the thrill of ‘shooting the rapids’ (water levels permitting) under the Old Weir Bridge. Pass historic sites such as Dinis Cottage, the old Copper Mines, and Inisfallen Island before concluding your tour at the iconic Ross Castle, home to the legendary O’Donoghue Clan.
Option 2: Self-Guided Boat & Cycling Tour
r those who prefer a self-paced adventure, boats depart from the main pier at the front of Ross Castle daily between 10am – 10:30am. Bring or rent a bicycle and enjoy a scenic ride after your boat tour. Arriving at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, you can cycle through the spectacular Gap of Dunloe at your own pace, soaking in the untouched beauty of the region before making your way back to Killarney.
PLEASE NOTE: For all options, booking is essential.
Tour Schedule
Boats
From Ross Castle at 10:30am
From Lord Brandon’s Cottage at 2:00pm
Coach
Depart from Ross Castle Carpark at 10:00am
(First carpark as you enter the castle on the right hand side.)
Ponies & Horse Drawn Traps
These run throughout daylight hours.
The following are the hours to or from the boats at Lord Brandon’s Cottage:
From Kate Kearney’s Cottage at 11:00am
From Lord Brandon’s Cottage at 2:00pm
Times maybe subject to change or cancellation due to weather conditions. All times are flexible for group bookings.