Activity

Cross the River Shannon

Difficulty Easy

As we continue our adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way, we take a scenic detour across Ireland’s longest river—the majestic Shannon—aboard the Shannon Ferry. Connecting Killimer in County Clare to Tarbert in County Kerry, this short 20-minute crossing offers far more than convenience. It’s a moment of stillness and perspective, where the pace slows, and the landscape opens up in every direction. The wide estuary stretches out like a living painting, with water, sky, and rolling shoreline blending seamlessly.

While the ferry glides gently across the water, take a moment to step out onto the deck and breathe in the salty Atlantic air. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the estuary’s gently sloping banks and distant coastal villages. Keep your eyes peeled—this part of the river is known for its wildlife, and with a bit of luck, you might catch sight of playful dolphins breaking the surface or seabirds gliding effortlessly overhead.

More than just a mode of transport, the Shannon Ferry is a quiet highlight of the journey. It marks the transition between counties, landscapes, and chapters of your Irish story. Whether you use the time to take photographs, chat with fellow travellers, or simply gaze out at the ever-changing water, this crossing adds a unique and peaceful charm to your day on the road.

Why we love it

This seamless part of the journey links north County Kerry with south County Clare. Two neighbouring counties with a huge sporting rivalry. Both counties have numerous All-Ireland hurling and football titles between them. You should check out some videos on our National sports.