How to get to Inis Oírr from Galway is straightforward once you plan the whole journey: the most common option is a passenger ferry from Rossaveel, west of Galway City. Allow time for the transfer to Rossaveel, parking or shuttle timing, check-in and the return connection.
Featured image: Towel401 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Galway to Rossaveel
Rossaveel is the mainland departure point used for regular Aran Islands passenger services. If you are travelling from Galway City, allow enough time for the road journey and check-in rather than working backwards from the sailing time alone.
Shuttle from Galway City
A connecting shuttle can make the trip easier if you do not have a car. Treat the mainland transfer and sailing as one journey: know where the shuttle leaves, when you need to be there and how the return connection works.
Driving and parking at Rossaveel
If you are driving, use our separate Rossaveel parking guide for the Aran Islands. Arriving early is especially important in peak season because parking, luggage and boarding all take time.
Flying to Inis Oírr
Small aircraft services also connect the Aran Islands with the mainland. Flying can be a useful alternative when the timetable suits your plans, but baggage rules and weather considerations are different from a ferry journey.
Which option is better?
For most first-time visitors, the ferry is the simplest choice because it brings you directly to the harbour and village. Flying is faster in the air, but you still need to factor in the mainland transfer and the island-side journey.
Once you have the journey sorted, continue with our things to do on Inis Oírr guide and the main Inis Oírr day-trip guide.
Explore more on Inis Oírr
Planning more than one stop? These Galway City Life guides cover travel, food, pubs, accommodation, shopping, culture, hidden places and practical details.
Map and directions
The map points to Rossaveel Harbour, the usual mainland starting point for the ferry journey.
