Southwest Ireland

After literally years in planning, it was with great excitement that we first spied the shores of Ireland on July 11, 2022. Well, actually, we spied a towering wall of fog that began about 5 miles off shore. Thanks to radar, GPS, and a friendly open entrance, we slowed down and proceeded into Baltimore Harbor without drama.


Our first stop was Baltimore Harbour. We chose this spot for several reasons. First, Baltimore is an official port of entry where we could legally enter the country. Second, the Harbour is well sheltered and can be entered in most weather conditions. And third, it is well situated in the far south west of Ireland and a perfect place to start our journey around the Island.

Our first order of business (after calling customs and immigration of course) was to seek out the pub and have a pint of Guinness. Wow, that one tasted good!

 


We spent a couple of days in Baltimore, moved to Schull for a night, then continued to Crookhaven.


Crookhaven is a very popular resort area for visitors from Cork and other more urban areas of Ireland. The harbour is very well protected from the sea and home to an active sailing club. It is so great to see all the kids learning to sail.

We took a couple of great hikes from Crookhaven. One up to Brow Head and a second to Mizzen Head which would be our first big headland to round in Ireland.

When the weather was right, we left Crookhaven to continue on up the coast. We timed Mizzen Head so the current would be with us. Easy trip around this one.


We made 3 more stops on our way to Dingle Bay.

First was Castletownbere. We found a very pretty anchorage just outside of town. We didn’t spend much time in town, but did manage a pint of Guinness.

Next stop, Darrynane. We picked this stop because it was very convenient to our route and also home to stunning beaches and the home of Daniel O’Connell, an important figure in the path towards independence for Ireland.

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As the weather remained favorable, we took advantage and planned out last segment that would bring us to Dingle Bay. There are a couple of intriguing islands visible from Mary’s relative’s homes across the bay that we have always longed to visit. The Skelligs are beautiful, mysterious, and have only become more popular over the years. Although you are not allowed to visit on a private boat, we absolutely loved doing a slow pass.

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Our last stop on this portion of the journey was Knightstown on Valentia Island. Finally we are in sight of the Dingle Peninsula. Knightstown has a very nice marina at the foot of the town with several nice pubs. The town was also the terminus of the first trans Atlantic telegraph cable and at one time had hundreds of people working there.

We’ve had an incredible time exploring West Cork and have been blessed with mostly excellent weather. Although one could spend months exploring just this little corner of Ireland, it’s time to move on.

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6 Responses to Southwest Ireland

  1. Amy says:

    It’s wonderful to see the two of you make your dreams become reality. Thank you for keeping us up to date with how you’re doing and for sharing the beautiful scenery. Sending love to you both!

  2. Bríd Long says:

    So interesting! I can’t wait for the next segments! It was wonderful to see you in Malahide.

  3. donnahusk says:

    Hi Mary and Jeff, would love to have seen Irland. Both Ray and I were half Irish. We got to old and never made it to ireland. I get a letter weekly about Ireland and enjoy it. Enjoy your voyages . your trips sound wonderful. Donna Husk

  4. Denise says:

    Glorious! I so love your posts and pictures. I will go back someday!

  5. Mary and Jeff:

    Wow, being Irish I too would find sailing to Ireland exciting.
    We are sailing Sardinia next June 10-24. Pretty much the same folks as when we met you on Happy Island. So if your travels take you to Italy in June, let us know. Lots of music.

  6. Kim says:

    I want a pint of Guinness! Have fun, travel safe.

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