An Excursion to Inishbofin -- The island of Inishbofin is a small emerald-green gem that lies 11km (6 3/4 miles) off the northwest coast of Connemara and offers seclusion and spectacular beauty, provided the skies are clear enough to deliver the unforgettable views of and from its shores. Once the domain of monks, then the lair of pirate queen Grace O'Malley, later Cromwell's infamous priest prison, and currently home to 180 year-round residents, Inishbofin is well worth a day's expedition or even a 2-day stay for those looking for peace and quiet.
Numerous ferries to the island operate from the port of Cleggan (13km/8 miles northwest of Clifden off N59) daily April through October. Inishbofin Island Tours, Kings of Cleggan, Cleggan, County Galway (tel. 095/44878), operates the largest, newest, and fastest boat, the Island Discovery. Tickets cost €15 ($19) per adult and €8 ($10) per child, round-trip, and are available at the company office in Cleggan. Note: Reservations are essential.
The other option, which we prefer, is to ride with Paddy O'Halloran (tel. 095/45806) on the Dun Aengus, the island's worn and worthy mail boat. The Dun Aengus remains the vessel of choice for most locals. It has both more charm and more roll than its newer rival; and skipper O'Halloran, after a half-century at the wheel, definitely knows the way. Tickets (€15/$19 per person, round-trip) for the Dun Aengus are available at the Spar Foodstore in Cleggan (tel. 095/44750).
