Fáilte roimh an Carraig Aonair
We are delighted to see our new 200 pax. fast ferry, Carraig Aonair in her bright new company colours. Formerly called Spirit of Doolin her evocative new name, Carraig Aonair means Fastnet Rock, in Irish. All agree that she looks stunning and the old type lettering adds a touch of added elegance.
Significant investments
This culminates some very significant investment in our West Cork Fleet. With two vessels sold last year, our 97 pax Dún na Séad 11 is now replaced by the 200 pax Carraig Aonair and the 64 pax Dún Aengus by the 97 pax Carraig Mór. The Carraig Mór was fitted with a crane over winter. This means that our cargo service to Cape Clear Island will operate year-round.
Speed and comfort
But back to the fast ferry Carraig Aonair. Modern and stylish vessel in superb condition she has a top speed of 20 knots. She will normally operate to Cape Clear Island, at her economical speed of 15 knots, reducing the passage time from 50 to 25 minutes. With spacious indoor seating for 90 passengers, she even has an onboard bar/café. And with outstanding views from the passenger saloon and her ample upper deck seating with 360-degree all-round viewing. Her improved weather capability offers greater passenger comfort and convenience.
An Archipelago to Explore – Carbery’s 100 Isles
Carbery 100 Isles are truly one of Ireland’s hidden gems. A West Cork archipelago comprising inhabited and uninhabited islands, lying in pristine waters with abundant natural beauty. Famous for whale and dolphin watching, ornithology and with an exciting history every rock has a story to tell. Cape Clear Island or Oileán Cléire is also know both as the Queen of Carbery’s 100 Isles and the Gateway to the Fastnet. What better way to explore this archipelago that on the Carraig Aonair itself ?
Carraig Aonair – Fastnet Rock
Fastnet Rock Lighthouse is one of Ireland’s most iconic maritime landmarks. Marking one extreme of Carbery’s 100 Island its an unmissable natural and man made feature. We are working hand in hand with Cape Clear Coop, Comharchumann Chléire Teo and other service providers to develop an outstanding maritime tourism experience based around the Fastnet Rock and the Island’s rich history. This major investment will bring new business the Island and to its mainland hinterland. This Summer the fast ferry Carraig Aonair will operate both from Schull and Baltimore to Cape Clear and around the Fastnet Lighthouse.
