Introduction
The Great Blasket Island is one of Ireland’s most magical, untouched destinations. It is home to dramatic cliffs, thriving wildlife, and a rich cultural history. But because it’s remote and protected, reaching the island is not as straightforward as hopping in the car.
This guide breaks down exactly how to get to the Great Blasket Island. It covers the best travel options, what to expect on the crossing, and how to plan your trip for a smooth and unforgettable experience.
If you’re planning a visit for a day trip, a wildlife tour, or an overnight stay in our island cottages, you’ll find everything you need right here.
1. Where the Great Blasket Island Is Located
The Great Blasket Island sits just off the coast of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. The island is uninhabited today but brimming with wildlife. It’s home to one of the largest grey seal colonies on the West Atlantic Coast. It is also surrounded by thriving marine activity such as dolphins, whales, basking sharks, and seabirds. Wildlife sightings are seasonal and vary depending on weather and sea conditions.
Your journey begins on the mainland in Dingle, Ventry or Dunquin depending on the tour option you choose.
2. How to Get to the Island: Your 2025 Travel Options
There is no direct public ferry, no pier, and no private access without a licensed operator.
Travel is only possible with authorised boats and tour companies—including our own eco-friendly wildlife tours.
We have created a list of the main transfer options:
Option A: The Great Blasket Island Experience – Eco Wildlife Tour + Island Landing
Different tour options available:
Premium Full Day Tour (approx 6.5 hours long – 1.5 hours sea safari boat transfer plus 3.5 hours island landing)
Mini Premium Tour (approx 5.5 hours long – 1 hour sea safari boat transfer plus 2.5 hour island landing)
Ideal for: Families, photographers, wildlife lovers, travellers wanting the full experience. Maximum capacity @ 12 people. Visits to seal colonies, puffin viewing during breeding season (Apr–July). If you want a mix of Wild Atlantic Way adventure, wildlife, and island time, this is the best option.
Option B: Eco Marine Tours – Ventry
Departs from: Ventry Pier
Different tour options available:
A full day Dolphin and whale watching tour (approx 4 hours) plus an Island landing (approx 3 hours).
A morning Sea Safari tour (approx 3 hours)
Whale and Dolphin tour (approx 4 hours).
Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, photographers, day-trippers, walkers, families.
Option C: Direct Ferry From Dunquin Pier.
Departs from: Dunquin Pier
Includes: A straight crossing to the island
Ideal for: Hikers, day-trippers, people short on time
This is a shorter crossing with no wildlife tour included.
Passengers board small ribs from the pier. You’re usually on the island within 20–25 minutes, depending on the weather.
3. What to Expect on the Boat Crossing
The Atlantic can be unpredictable, so crossings depend heavily on weather and sea conditions. Here’s what travellers should know:
Most boats run from April to October.
>Weather cancellations happen for safety and will always be at the Skipper’s discretion.
>Crossing times vary depending on departure locations: Dingle @ 1.5 hour (fast RIB) Ventry @ 1 hour (slower boat) Dunquin @ 30 minutes.
Wear warm layers and good footwear—it can be colder at sea.
Landing on the Island is made by small dinghy via transhipping.
4. When Is the Best Time to Visit the Great Blasket Island?
April – July offers Puffin & Basking shark season. It’s incredible for photography and wildlife lovers.
June – September can be the most settled months, but this varies yearly.
September – October is great for quiet visits, seals pupping, and golden evening light.
5. How to Plan Your Trip Smoothly
To make your journey stress-free, here are our top recommendations:
✔ Book early, especially weekends and wildlife seasons – i.e Puffins, Basking Sharks, Humpback Whales
Days Tours and overnight stays can fill quickly.
✔ Wear practical footwear
There are steep hills, grassy paths, and uneven terrain.
✔ Bring food and water
There is a basic café/shop on the Island that sells teas, coffees, scones, and light refreshments.
✔ Pack layers, sunscreen, and waterproofs. Weather can change quickly—even in summer.
✔ Charge your phone or bring a battery pack. There’s no electricity in the Island accommodation.
6. Visiting for an Overnight Stay
Staying on the Great Blasket Island is a bucket-list experience. Our restored cottages offer:
Cosy stone interiors
Two fuel-burning stoves
Comfortable beds
Spectacular sea views
Peace, silence, and zero light pollution
Sunsets and sunrises you will never forget.
7. Ready to Visit? Here’s How to Book
The Great Blasket Island Experience offers:
• Eco Wildlife Tours
⚓ From Dingle
🐬 Dolphins, whales, seals, puffins
🏝 Island landing included
• Direct Boat Transfers for Overnight Guests
🏡 Stay in our traditional island cottages
🌅 Ideal for photographers and nature lovers
• Tailored packages for families or multi-day adventures
🚤 Private charter options available on request
👉 To book your 2026 visit, head to our booking page or contact us directly.
Conclusion
Reaching the Great Blasket Island may take a little planning, but that’s what protects its wild beauty.
>Whether you’re visiting for a day trip, a wildlife adventure, or an unforgettable overnight stay, the journey is all part of the magic. With the right tour and a bit of preparation, it’s one of the most rewarding trips you’ll ever take in Ireland.