Ireland is renowned for its magnificent scenery, hospitable citizens, and extensive history. However, a lot of people don’t realise that Ireland is also a fantastic location for sailors. Ireland offers a singular and spectacular experience with its rocky coastline, charming bays, and wealth of islands. We’ll examine some of the top Sailing Destinations in Ireland in this post, along with the benefits of going there.
Top sailing boats in Ireland
Ireland is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse sailing locations in the world. You’re likely to find the ideal location to fit your preferences and degree of experience whether you’re sailing a catamaran, a sailboat, or a bluewater sailboat.
Catamaran
Consider renting a catamaran for your upcoming journey in Ireland if you’re seeking for an exciting and pleasant sailing experience. Catamarans provide a stable and roomy platform for exploring Ireland’s coastline and bays because they have two hulls and roomy decks. A catamaran can offer a pleasant and opulent experience that’s difficult to match, whether you’re sailing with your family or a group of friends.
Sailboat
A sailboat is the ideal option for individuals who want a more conventional sailing experience. Sailboats provide a timeless and elegant way to explore the waterways of Ireland with their clean lines and traditional design. A sailboat may be a hard and gratifying voyage that is sure to leave you with lifelong memories, whether you are an experienced sailor or a novice.
Bluewater Sailboat
Consider renting a bluewater sailboat in Ireland for the ultimate sailing experience. These boats, engineered to resist the harshest conditions and offer a comfortable and secure platform for exploring the world’s oceans, are intended for long-distance sailing in open waters. A bluewater sailboat can offer the best sailing experience, whether you’re planning a globe or a shorter cruise along Ireland’s coast.
The top 10 Sailing Destinations in Ireland
To discover more about various sailboats, yachts, and catamaran types you can check out this Sailboat Data page. You may discover comprehensive details on different sailboat models and their performance here, making it easy for you how to pick the best boat for your requirements.
County Kerry: Dramatic Cliffs and Clear Blue Waters
County Kerry, which lies in the southwest of Ireland, is first on our list because of its breathtaking beauty. Kerry is a well-liked holiday spot for sailors because of its rugged coastline, quaint fishing villages, and azure waters. Dingle Bay, which is bordered by imposing cliffs and filled with little islands, is one of the best spots in Kerry to sail. Kenmare Bay, another fantastic location, is well-known for having an abundance of marine life, including dolphins and seals.
County Donegal: Rugged and Wild Coastline
Next up is County Donegal’s untamed shoreline, which may be found in northwest Ireland. With its high cliffs, sandy beaches, and sparkling waterways, Donegal is renowned for its wild natural beauty. The secluded island of Tory and the breathtakingly picturesque Slieve League Cliffs are just two of the untouched regions of Ireland that may be explored while sailing in Donegal. There are some excellent seafood restaurants in the neighbourhood where you may taste recently caught fish and other regional specialities.
Kinsale, County Cork: Picturesque Harbor Town
Continuing on to Ireland’s east coast, we have the charming town of Kinsale, which is situated in County Cork. Sailing enthusiasts love Kinsale because of its safe harbour, gorgeous architecture, and active arts community. The area is renowned for its superb seafood eateries, which provide everything from gourmet lobster meals to freshly caught fish. A trip to the neighbouring Old Head of Kinsale, a breathtakingly magnificent promontory that gives breathtaking views of the coastline, is one of the pleasures of sailing in Kinsale.
Aran Islands, County Galway: Remote and Unique Destination
The Aran Islands, which are situated off the west coast of County Galway, are yet another fantastic Sailing Destinations in Ireland. The islands are a distinctive and far-off location with a lively Gaelic culture. Sailing to the Aran Islands, with their thatched homes, historic ruins, and kind residents, is a fantastic way to see traditional Irish life. The islands are also home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches, such as Trá Mór’s pure white sand.
Dublin: Vibrant City Surrounded by Beautiful Bays
Located on Ireland’s east coast is the vibrant metropolis of Dublin. Although Dublin might not be the first place that springs to mind when considering Sailing Destinations in Ireland, it’s a fantastic site to explore the Irish Sea. There are many marinas and sailing clubs where you may rent a boat or enrol in sailing courses, and the city is bordered by beautiful bays and inlets. With its museums, galleries, and well-known buildings like the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to discover the city’s rich cultural past.
The Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye, which is located off the northwest coast of Scotland, is a well-liked holiday spot for sailors. Skye offers a singular and amazing sailing experience with its beautiful scenery, untamed shoreline, and rich history. The renowned Cuillin Mountains, the charming fishing community of Portree, and the ancient Dunvegan Castle are just a few highlights.
The Bay of Islands, New Zealand
The Bay of Islands, which is situated in the far north of New Zealand’s North Island, are a sailor’s paradise. The Bay of Islands is a well-liked location for sailing, kayaking, and snorkelling due to its turquoise seas, protected harbours, and wealth of marine life. The Hole in the Rock, the ancient settlement of Russell, and the breathtaking Haruru Falls are some of the attractions.
The Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsunday Islands, which are located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, are a well-known sailing destination. The Whitsundays offer a singular and spectacular sailing experience with their crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and isolated beaches. The renowned Whitehaven Beach, the breathtaking Heart Reef, and the illustrious Hamilton Island Yacht Club are among the highlights.
The Greek Islands, Greece
Greek Islands are a favourite sailing destination due to their warm climate, clean waters, and historic sites. Greece has something for every sailor, from the busy harbours of Athens to the secluded islands of Crete and Corfu. Attractions include the magnificent beaches of Mykonos, the charming village of Oia on Santorini, and the ancient city of Rhodes.
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands, which located off the coast of Ecuador, are a singular and spectacular holiday spot for sailors. The Galapagos Islands provide a once-in-a-lifetime sailing experience with their profusion of species, breathtaking landscape, and beautiful waters. The famous Charles Darwin Research Station is one among the highlights, as are snorkelling with marine turtles and swimming with sea lions.
Best time to Sail in Ireland
It’s crucial to pick the optimal time of year to travel if you’re organising a sailing excursion in Ireland. Depending on the season, the weather and water conditions might change drastically, so it’s critical to plan ahead to ensure a safe and pleasurable voyage.
The summer months, from June to August, are the greatest for sailing in Ireland. Temperatures during this period normally range from 59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit and are moderate and sunny. Also, the winds are typically steady and quiet, which makes it the perfect time for both expert and inexperienced sailors to explore the more difficult seas off the Irish coast.
However, it should be noted that the summer season can also be the busiest for sailing in Ireland, with many well-liked locations and marinas quickly filling up. In order to avoid crowds and congestion, it is important to arrange your vacation far in advance and to properly plan your itinerary.
Consider travelling to Ireland between May and September if you want a more sedate and tranquil sailing experience. The weather is still typically temperate and pleasant during these months, but there are fewer people about and the costs are cheaper. Also, you’ll have more freedom when it comes to reserving marinas and mooring spots, letting you visit some of the more secluded and off-the-beaten-path locations along the Irish coast. In conclusion, with its rocky coastline, picturesque harbours, and plenty of islands, Sailing Destinations in Ireland are a terrific travel destination for sailing fans. Every traveller may find something to enjoy in Ireland’s sailing spots, whether they’re searching for a wild and unspoilt adventure or a dynamic cultural experience. Why not embark on a voyage and see the Emerald Isle for yourself?
Visit our sailing destinations page for some incredible ideas and places to explore if you’re feeling motivated to organize your own sailing holiday. Start preparing for your upcoming sailing excursion right away with Ocean Wave Sail!
