The largest island in Bantry Bay, Whiddy is a five-minute ferry crossing from Bantry town yet feels entirely removed from the modern world. Walk past Bronze Age forts, WWII flying boat bases, and wildflower meadows to clifftop views over the full sweep of the bay — with a pint at the island's single pub as a fitting finale.
What to expect
The ferry deposits you at Whiddy Pier, from where a circular walk (approx. 8 km) takes you past the ruins of a 16th-century O'Sullivan Beare castle, the remains of the WWII flying boat station, and a memorial to the 1979 Betelgeuse oil tanker disaster. Wildflower-lined lanes lead to the northern cliffs with their sweeping views of the Caha Mountains and Bantry Bay. End at Caitlins Bar — a true old-world Irish island pub — before the short ferry back.
Good to know
Ferries depart from Bantry Town Pier — a 5-minute walk from the cruise tender landing. Check the return ferry schedule carefully and allow buffer time for all-aboard. Wear comfortable walking shoes; the circular route takes 2.5–3 hours at a relaxed pace. No advance booking needed for the ferry in good weather.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Bantry Bay — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.