Carlingford Lough Ferry, which traverses Carlingford Lough, between Greenore, Co. Louth and Greencastle, Co. Down, announced additional cruise dates in July and August due to public demand!
An extended range of pedestrian-only cruises, which supplement the normal car ferry service, include scenic cruises on the iconic Carlingford Lough, to lighthouse cruises where the ferry cruises to within 400 meters of the Haulbowline Lighthouse.
The sunset evening cruise takes you past Carlingford and Rostrevor Bays to the backdrop of the majestic Mourne Mountains and this year the Carlingford Lough Summer Gin Cruise and Carlingford Lough Oyster & Guinness Cruise have been added to the cruise roster.
Each cruise is a safe outdoor socially distant event and takes two hours. Those on board enjoy a wonderful experience on the waters of Ireland’s Ancient East spotting birds and wildlife from sea otters and the famed grey seal colony to dolphins and seabirds. Tickets priced at €20 (upper deck) and €15 (lower deck) and €10 (children – lower deck only) and cruise dates are available on www.carlingfordferry.com/cruises
Carlingford Lough Ferry Cruise options include;
Carlingford Lough & Lighthouse Cruise – These 2 hour evening cruises take you along Carlingford Lough and to within 400 metres of the historic Haulbowline Lighthouse, located just off Cranfield Point which is still active having been built in 1824. This is a walk on family cruise and includes seating.
Carlingford Lough Sunset Cruise – Learn the stories of the famous myths and legends of the Lough, and keep an eye out for Finn, Carlingford Lough’s resident dolphin upon departure. He’s sure to pop up and say hello! These evening cruises pass along the Southern shoreline, past the medieval town of Carlingford with its picturesque marina and imposing King John’s Castle. On the Northern shoreline, enjoy panoramic views of Greencastle Royal Castle, and Rostrevor Bay, as the sun sets on the majestic Cooley Peninsula and Mourne Mountain region.
Carlingford Lough Oyster & Guinness Cruise – Join award winning Oyster producers, ‘Carlingford Oyster Company’ for an evening of entertainment and fun as you soak up the epic sights that surround you. Learn the process of shucking & preparing oysters and enjoy their unique taste beautifully complimented by a glass of Guinness!
Carlingford Lough Summer Gin Cruise – New for 2021, the Carlingford Lough Summer Gin cruise is a collaboration with the Woodlab Distillery, Dungannon showcasing the award winning Symphonia Gin. Sample the Symphonia Gin Collection and learn about the distilling process as you cruise Carlingford Lough, within the spectacular surrounds of the Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula.
Irene Hamilton, Commercial Director of Carlingford Lough Ferry said: “Last year was the first time we ran these cruises and they were a huge success so we are back – bigger and better.
“There are a number of great producers in this region and we are thrilled to be able to highlight Symphonia Gin and the Carlingford Oysters with two specialty cruises. From spotting wildlife to jiving to Henry Mac and his band in a safe outdoor environment we feel we have a unique offering for anyone who wants to take to the water for a few hours of pleasure this summer season.”