Traveled with Blue Pool Ferries on a beautiful calm sea. Surprised that there was no safety briefing on boarding the boat as is customary throughout Europe. Although some life jackets were visible, stored towards the front of the boat, the pilot made no reference to them. The island itself is very nice and well maintained basking in the glory of... More

http://www.garnishisland.com/ http://www.harbourqueenferry.com/ There is a free car park at the Harbour Queen ferry terminal, and I'm sure you will enjoy the short trip over to Garinish Island. The ferry cost is separate to the gardens entry cost. On the way it's normal to see seals basking in the sun on the rocks. From the slipway you enter the gardens past... More

We were finishing the Ring of Beara and saw a sign for "Seal Island" and a ferry. We stopped at the Blue Pool Ferry. The man at the booth was cheery and teasing, and we liked him right away. We bought our tickets, walked down to the ferry landing and entered paradise. The ferry dock is in a quiet pool... More

All you have to do it look at the pictures, they only allow you only a small indication of the true beauty of this wonderland. This is a place you NEED to visit in person to feel the magic and beauty. I can just imagine, that even if you visited every day for a year you would still be awed... More

It's been 18 years since we visited. We returned with a teenager and a younger child and found the magic was still the same. Junior was amazed at the scents, the bees, the places to explore while the rest of us (including the teenager) strolled along following the official route soaking it all in. The cold April has had an... More

The ferry ride is a delight - lots of seals, birds and aquatic life to see. The gardens are very interesting and the easy climb to the top of the tower gives a perspective on the history of Bantry Bay.

The boat trip over via the blue Pool ferry was fun both times we went... we took our grand kids one time ..we went with adults another time.. it's beautiful and interesting.. would love tosee the gardens in full bloom!

Great holidays and even day trips are judged by the moments you remember, so that when you go back there is a danger that you will be disappointed if you do not get to enjoy the experience the same way second time around. Garnish / Ilnacullin is the glorious exception to this. Start with the ferry journey over from the... More

Another great trip with the Harbour Queen! Skipper Ted made sure we see get to see plenty of seals. You can always rely on Brendan and his crew! I'll be back throughout the summer season for more seals and the beauty of Garinish Island!