One of the highlights of your trip on the Blue Pool Ferry is sure to be your encounter with the Glengarrriff seals!
The waters of Glengariff Harbour are home to over 250 harbour seals (Phoca vitulina). In fact the harbour has been recognised as a Special Area of Conservation because of its natural diversity and the remarkable habitats it provides for Irish sealife.
Silver or mottled in colour, the seals almost blend into the seaweed-covered rocks that jut above the gentle waters of Bantry Bay in their natural habitat, but your eye soon adjusts so you can start seal spotting!
Work and play!
Watch the seals paddling in the bay or hauling themselves up on to the rocks of Seal Island, after feasting on their catch.
You’ll often find them relaxing and drinking in the sunshine on a fine day!
On our trips to and from Garinish Island, we take time to visit Seal Island and the rocks where the seals like to bask in the fine weather, so you can take photos of these charming mammals up close. We always keep a respectful distance, but the seals have grown accustomed to the ferry boats that pass their way, and you’d be forgiven for sometimes thinking that they are posing for the camera!
If you’re lucky, around June and July, you may get the opportunity to observe seal pups taking their first swims. They are naturally curious creatures, and so they sometimes tentatively approach the ferry, trying to figure out what our boat trips are all about!
Book your Garinish Island trip
A boat trip to the gorgeous gardens on Garinish Island is a treat for all the senses and a great way to experience the Wild Atlantic Way!