A Journey through Roaringwater Bay with Cape Clear Ferries
As the Cape Clear Lavender Festival returns for its third year on 28th & 29th June, we’re really looking forward to welcoming passengers on board for what promises to be another fantastic weekend on Oileán Chléire.
There’s no better way to begin your day than with a trip across the water with Cape Clear Ferries a family-run, locally rooted business connecting Baltimore and Cape Clear Island since 2007.
At the heart of the company is the Cottrell family, based in Baltimore but deeply connected to the island itself. Alongside island shareholders living on Cape Clear, the business reflects a true partnership between mainland and island life.
While the company was established in 2007, our family’s seafaring tradition stretches back generations, with deep roots in ferry services to the island.
Led by Master Mariner Brendan Cottrell and his wife Karen, our team combines experience, local knowledge, and a genuine passion for the West Cork coast we call home.
Our crew are lifelong seafarers, with an instinctive understanding of the tides, currents, and wildlife around Cape Clear. During the summer season, we’re joined by local seasonal crew, ensuring a warm welcome for every passenger.
Many of our team are also proud contributors to the Baltimore Lifeboat community, continuing a strong tradition of service.
Cape Clear Island is a proud Gaeltacht community, and many of our crew are fluent Irish speakers. We were delighted to receive three Gold Awards at Gradaim na Gaeilge 2025 for our use of the Irish language signage, marketing, and service.
Arriving by ferry is part of the magic. As you cross the water, you’ll pass islands, seabirds, and maybe even dolphins, before stepping ashore into the colour and calm of the Lavender Festival.
Cape Clear is also known as the Gateway to the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, and for those looking to make even more of their visit, our Fastnet Rock Lighthouse tours run throughout the summer offering a truly unforgettable experience along the Wild Atlantic Way. Tickets can be purchased at capeclearferries.com.
Bígí Linn
