Fastnet Rock Lighthouse

Fastnet Rock Lighthouse
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About

A 54-metre granite tower stranded in the Atlantic off West Cork, Fastnet Rock was the last sight of home for thousands of emigrants — Ireland's "Teardrop" is now reached only by boat.

Things to Do

Fastnet Rock Day Tour

Board at Baltimore (10.45am) or Schull (11.30am) for a full day out. The ferry crosses Roaringwater Bay to Cape Clear Island for a 2-3 hour stop before rounding the lighthouse and returning around 5pm.

Round the lighthouse

The boat circumnavigates the rock at close quarters, giving superb views of the 54-metre granite tower - the tallest and widest rock lighthouse in Ireland and Britain. Landings are not permitted, so the sea is the only way to see it.

Cape Clear Island stopover

Spend a couple of hours on Ireland's most southerly inhabited island, a Gaeltacht where Irish is spoken. See the Fastnet Exhibition and multimedia display in the Cape Clear & Fastnet Rock Heritage Centre and the island's Fastnet memorials.

Twilight and sunset cruise

Evening sailings from Baltimore (June-August) circle the rock as the sun goes down behind it. Take the 5pm crossing to explore Cape Clear first, then rejoin the twilight tour.

Direct Fastnet Tour

A 2.5-3 hour round trip straight to the rock with no island stop, limited to 12 passengers and booking essential. A good option if you want the lighthouse without the full day.

Wildlife watching

Skippers detour for pods of dolphins, whales, porpoises and basking sharks in these rich waters. Bring a camera and warm, waterproof layers.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Fastnet Rock tours run mid-April to October from Baltimore, and June to August from Schull; evening tours from Baltimore begin in June. Day tour departs Baltimore 10.45am and Schull 11.30am. All sailings are weather dependent.
  • Admission: Day Tour €48 per person; Direct Tour €44; Twilight Tour €48. Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) €120.
  • Parking: Free parking in both Baltimore and Schull; allow at least 30 minutes to park in busy season.
  • Food: Cape Clear Island has cafes, restaurants and pubs around North Harbour, with free time for lunch or coffee during the island stopover. Baltimore and Schull villages also have pubs and eateries.

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