Clew Bay Cruise

Set against the rugged backdrop of Ireland’s west coast, Clew Bay is a patchwork of over 365 islands carved by retreating glaciers during the last Ice Age. Departing from The Quay in Cloonmonad, Westport Cruises invites adventurers to embark on a 90-minute voyage aboard the “Spirit of St. Patrick,” a modern vessel designed for comfort with heated lounges, an upper deck, and amenities like a café and bar.

This cruise is more than a scenic ride; it’s a journey through layers of natural wonder and history wrapped into one compact experience. The cruise charts a course past a thriving seal colony, home to around 400 seals that bask and play close to the boat’s path, especially vibrant in summer months when seal pups appear. Visitors also glimpse John Lennon’s Island, once a brief retreat for the famed Beatle and a magnet for hippy culture, offering a quiet window into a storied past.

Further on, the cruise rounds the iconic Inishgort Lighthouse, standing sentinel where Clew Bay flows into the Atlantic. The imposing silhouette of Croagh Patrick looms in the distance — locally known as "The Reek," this mountain holds deep spiritual significance, where St. Patrick is said to have fasted.

Complementing the natural scenery, a skilled local guide weaves tales of Grace O’Malley, the dreaded Pirate Queen who ruled these seas, alongside somber recountings of the 1894 Achill disaster, when tragedy struck the bay. Westport Cruises occupies a special place in Mayo’s outdoor landscape, providing a unique blend of wildlife viewing, cultural storytelling, and panoramic vistas accessible to all ages and abilities. The vessel’s modern comforts paired with authentic commentary make the Clew Bay Cruise a standout way to connect with Ireland’s wild coastline and rich maritime legacy.