The Aran Islands sit just off the Galway coast — close enough to see from the Salthill Promenade on a clear day, far enough to feel like another country. If you want to spend a day on Inis Mór, Inis Meáin or Inis Oírr without giving up a proper hotel bed, Salthill Hotel is a practical base on the mainland. We are around 10 minutes by car from Galway City Docks (seasonal direct ferry to Inis Mór), about 45 minutes by car or shuttle bus to Rossaveel (year-round ferry), and approximately 45 minutes by car to Connemara Regional Airport at Inverin (Aer Arann flights to all three islands, year-round). Our concierge team can confirm current ferry sailings or flights and arrange a taxi when you check in.
Three Ways to Reach the Aran Islands from Salthill Hotel
Direct Ferry from Galway City Docks (Seasonal)
Aran Island Ferries operates a seasonal direct sailing from Galway City Docks to Inis Mór. Approximately 10 minutes by car from Salthill Hotel. Crossing time 90 minutes. Operates April through October. Best for travellers who want the scenic crossing as part of the experience.
Ferry from Rossaveel (Year-Round)
Rossaveel (Ros a Mhíl) is the year-round ferry terminal. Approximately 45 minutes by car from Salthill Hotel, or by shuttle bus from Galway city centre. Crossing time 40 minutes to Inis Mór; longer for Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr. Multiple daily sailings, weather permitting. The standard option used by most day-trippers.
Flight from Connemara Regional Airport (Year-Round)
Aer Arann Islands flies to all three islands from Connemara Regional Airport at Inverin. Approximately 45 minutes by car from Salthill Hotel. Flight time under 10 minutes, 9-seat aircraft. Year-round service, weather permitting, with up to 30 departures per day in peak season. The fastest option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Salthill Hotel from the Aran Islands ferry?
Salthill Hotel is approximately 10 minutes by car from Galway City Docks, where the seasonal direct ferry to Inis Mór departs from April to October. The year-round Rossaveel ferry terminal is around 45 minutes by car from the hotel. Aran Island Ferries also operates a shuttle bus from Galway city centre to Rossaveel that connects directly with sailings.
Can you do the Aran Islands as a day trip from Galway?
Yes. A day trip to Inis Mór from Galway is well-established. The most common option is a morning ferry from Rossaveel (40-minute crossing) or a short flight from Connemara Airport (under 10 minutes), followed by an afternoon return.
Is it better to fly or take the ferry to the Aran Islands?
The ferry is the more common option with more flexible scheduling and capacity. The flight from Connemara Airport is faster but uses small 9-passenger aircraft and depends on weather. Many visitors fly one way and ferry the other for variety.
Can you see the Aran Islands from Salthill?
Yes, the Aran Islands are visible from the Salthill Promenade on a clear day, sitting on the horizon to the south-west of Galway Bay.
Do you need to book the Aran Islands ferry in advance?
We recommend booking ahead, especially in peak summer months, on weekends, and during the Galway Races. Sailings can fill up in July and August. Our concierge team can advise on current availability at check-in.
Is there parking at Salthill Hotel for guests doing the Aran Islands day trip?
Yes. Complimentary on-site car parking is included when you book direct through salthillhotel.com. You can leave your car at the hotel for the day and take a taxi to either Galway Docks or Rossaveel, or drive yourself to Connemara Regional Airport.
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