Whether it’s the exhilaration of the salty sea waves splashing your face or the tranquillity of lazing down a river that appeals to you, we have a trip for everyone. So pull up the anchor and get ready to set sail around Ireland’s beautiful landscape with our guide to the best 5 boat trips.  

Aran Island and Cliffs of Moher Day Tour
Where: Galway
Price: Adult Return €49

Set sail on the state of the art Saoirse na Farraige passenger ferry vessel and enjoy the breathtaking scenery Ireland has to offer. Aran Island Ferries offers passengers a 90-minute cruise on Galway Bay that showcases the rough beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline of Connemara and Clare, along with all three of the Aran Islands: Inis Oírr (where it docks), Inis Meáin and Inis Mór. The return journey to Galway City will bring passengers on a cruise along the iconic Cliffs of Moher, which will certainly leave you wanting to see Moher. Visit aranislandferries.com. Perfect for the explorers.

Lough Derg Trail Weekend
Where: Galway/Offaly
Price: Available Upon Enquiry

You can begin your 3-day boating journey from the towns of Portumna or Banagher and enjoy a relaxing meander down Lough Derg, the southern part of the Shannon. Along the river, there are nine towns to visit that are full of attractions to see and local pubs and restaurants to go for a bite to eat. You can explore the tourist hot spots like the great Portumna castle or visit the two well-known pubs in Mountshannon for some craic. Take in the scenic views of the East Clare mountains and the Tipperary countryside, where you will end your weekend trail in the town of Terryglass. Visit discovertheshannon.com. Perfect for a romantic getaway.

Blasket Mini Eco Tour
Where: Kerry

Price: Adult Ticket €35

This guided two and a half hour boating tour sets sail from the Dingle marina and glides along the coast past Slea Head, the Great Blasket Island and Beginis Island. The tour is fun and informative, filled with history and folklore for all the family to enjoy. Take in the picture-perfect scene of the Grey Seal colony, lolling on the beach and immerse yourself in Irish culture while listening to your guide sweep through the history of the society that was formed on the Blasket Islands. Visit dingleboattours.com. Perfect for family outings.

Killarney Water Bus Tour
Where: Kerry

Price: Adult Ticket €12

This hour-long tour will have you leisurely cruising along Killarney's beautiful lakes with the M.V Pride of the Lakes, a covered and heated water bus. The live commentary on-board helps you to enjoy the scenery from the peaks of Magillycuddy’s Reeks to the ruins of Innisfallen Abbey. Setting sail from Ross Castle, MV Pride of the Lakes offers scenic routes on Lough Leane. With heritage attractions including O’Sullivan Cascade and the monastic ruins of Inishfallen Island, you will be immersed in ancient Irish culture. Visit killarneylaketours.ie. Perfect for tranquillity. 

Giants Causeway, Skerries and Dunluce Castle Boat Tour
Where: Antrim 

Price: Adult Ticket €41 

Enjoy this two and a half-hour boat journey along the magnificent Causeway Coast. Visit Ireland’s beautiful sights such as the Skerries, which is a site of special scientific interest, the famous chalk cliffs at Whiterocks, the 14th Century Dunluce Castle and the incredible Giant's Causeway, a natural wonder of the world. You might even see some amazing sea life such as dolphins, grey seals or porpoises. Bring your binoculars, just in case! Visit aquaholics.co.uk. Perfect for the ultimate day out.