May 15th, 2016 - Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands

Today we’ll visit the towering Cliffs of Moher as the ship sails by them this morning. We’ll then continue to the Aran Islands, known for their limestone moonscapes and strong Gaelic identity. Then we’ll visit Dun Aengus, an enigmatic Celtic ring fort perched on the edge of a cliff.

Expedition Report

The morning of the 15th of May broke with perfect, cloud-free blue skies and a stunning sunrise. The chilly northeast breeze did not deter the guests as they were out on deck in droves admiring the sun rising over the Irish coastline. The first of the fingers of the Cliffs of Moher were visible, with the distinctive Napoleonic watchtowers breaking the skyline atop the cliffs. The air was filled with the busy comings and goings of the gangs of guillemots, razorbills, and gannets. In amongst it all were the smaller and plumper Atlantic puffins, busily flapping their wings to get to their destination. One lucky observer spotted a minke whale from the dining room while eating breakfast!

The morning outing was a Zodiac landing at Aran Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands and home to the Aran Sweater. Some opted to visit Dun Aengus, the prehistoric fort lying at the edge of the 100-meter cliffs of the island, dating back to 1100 B.C. The other option was a panoramic guided drive around the island, affording some spectacular views, while being entertained with tall tales from the bus drivers. We even had an opportunity to feed the local donkey.

The afternoon was an expedition-type affair, with a trip to Inisheer (or Inis Óirr), the smallest and most easterly of the three Aran Islands, with miles and miles of stone walls. The blue skies, azure-colored waters, and relaxed atmosphere of Inisheer were welcomed by one and all. The Man of Aran Fudge stall was open, selling the most wonderful fudge in Ireland! Gray seals and common dolphins were visible offshore, while sandwich terns were busily diving for sand eels within the harbour walls in their noisy splendour.

In the evening, we sailed along the coast of county Galway, with feeding flocks of manx shearwaters and also gannets diving from great heights into the blue water, while common dolphins exploded out of the water through them all, adding to the maelstrom of the feeding frenzy. A truly memorable end to a marvellous day along Ireland’s west coast.