FAQs
Below are some of our most Frequently Asked Questions.
The ferry from Baltimore Harbour to Cape Clear Island operates all year round. The service from Schull is seasonal, operating three days a week from June and then six days a week from July and August.
For those travelling by car, the journey is relatively straightforward. Baltimore is a little more than four hours from Dublin. Drivers coming from the capital should take the M8 to Cork after which it is less than two hours to Baltimore.
There are multiple tour companies operating services to West Cork from all of Ireland’s major cities. However, tourists with time on their hands can take the local 237 bus from Cork City to Baltimore or Schull via Skibbereen. The local bus takes around two and a half hours and travels through the picturesque coastal towns of Clonakilty, Roscarbery and Skibbereen.
There is free parking in both Baltimore and Schull however we recommend allowing at least 30 minute to park the car during busy season.
No. You also have the option to purchase tickets to stay on the island overnight.
Check out places to stay on Cape Clear Island here.
Our Fastnet Rock Lighthouse tours, which are famous for the way in which we circle the lighthouse at close quarters for the perfect view, begin in mid-April from Baltimore Harbour and run until October. Tours departing from Schull start in June and continue through our peak season to the end of August.
Evening tours from Baltimore Harbour to Fastnet Rock Lighthouse via Cape Clear begin in June.
All services are weather dependent. Check the timetable for a sailing schedule. In bad weather, it’s advised that passengers check our Facebook and Instagram pages for updates on sailings.
Passengers are encouraged to book in advance during peak season but can pay while boarding during off-peak times. Card payments are accepted but occasional technical issues mean that cash is preferred.
Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more who are travelling together.
You can book online here or call us on 02839159.
No. Passengers who book online will get an email containing their digital ticket with a QR code and reference number. This will be sufficient.
Well, with one minor catch. Mobile internet can be patchy in the area so customers are asked to keep a copy of the digital ticket on their phone rather than try to access their email while boarding as this may cause delays.
Passengers will be offered a full refund, or they can rebook for a different date. Pre-booked passengers will receive an email or phone call informing them of a cancelled service.
Although there is a certain amount of indoor seating available on our ferries, passengers will be outdoors most of the time. You can experience all four seasons in one day in Ireland so we recommend that passengers bring a good rain jacket, sunscreen, a camera to capture the magnificent views, and some cash for the shops where cards may not be accepted.
Remember: there’s no such thing as bad weather – only bad rain gear!
No, it is a passenger ferry only. Only island residents can drive their cars on Cape Clear.
Children and infants can travel on the ferries. We recommend that passengers with children travel on a day when sea and weather conditions are good. All our sailings are buggy friendly.
Yes, we allow dogs on board. Return tickets for dogs cost €2 and can be purchased while boarding. We would ask that owners keep their dogs on a lead at all times while on board and that they remain in the outside areas.
Dear Customer
This Customer Service Charter outlines our commitment to providing a safe, reliable, and customer-focused ferry service to and from Cape Clear Island. As a lifeline service for islanders and visitors alike, we are dedicated to delivering a professional, friendly, and efficient experience at sea.
Information & Booking
Tickets can be booked:
Our timetable and fare information are available online and onboard all vessels.
All passengers will be issued with a valid ticket.
Our Commitment to You
We will strive to:
Please note: Boarding at both Baltimore and Cape Clear Island is via steps, and assistance may be limited depending on conditions and operational demands. We recommend contacting us in advance if you require assistance.
How You Can Help Us
To help us deliver the best possible service, we kindly ask that you:
Luggage & Cargo
Cape Clear Ferries operates a mixed passenger and cargo service, which is essential to island life.
Our crew will assist with luggage where possible; however:
As a result of operational requirements:
We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation, particularly during busy sailings when cargo operations take priority.
Customer Feedback & Contact
We aim to resolve any issues quickly, fairly, and efficiently. If you wish to contact us:
We are committed to addressing all complaints within four weeks and will use feedback to improve our services.
We always welcome your comments and suggestions.
Ongoing Engagement
Legal Notice:
This charter does not affect the statutory rights or legal obligations of customers.
