The Wild Atlantic Way is world-famous for its rugged cliffs, dramatic sea stacks, and fascinating history. But some of its most impressive sights can only be truly appreciated from the water.
When you join an Enniscrone Boat Tour, you’ll set off from the charming coastal town of Enniscrone in County Sligo, exploring Killala Bay, North Mayo, and beyond. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking landmarks, hidden sea caves, and maybe even dolphins playing in the waves.
Here are the top 5 landmarks you can’t miss when you embark on a sea adventure with us.
1. Dún Briste Sea Stack at Downpatrick Head
One of Ireland’s most iconic coastal features, the Dún Briste sea stack rises 50 metres above the Atlantic, standing alone just off Downpatrick Head. Its dramatic cliffs are layered with millions of years of geological history, and seabirds circle overhead.
From land, Dún Briste is spectacular — but from the sea, you get an entirely new perspective, watching the waves crash against its base and spotting puffins and kittiwakes nesting on the ledges.
2. The Cliffs at the Céide Fields
The Céide Fields are the world’s most extensive Stone Age site, dating back nearly 6,000 years. While most visitors explore the interpretive centre on land, few realise that the towering cliffs surrounding the fields are just as awe-inspiring from the sea.
On your boat tour, you’ll cruise along these sheer cliff faces, where history and nature meet in spectacular fashion.
3. The Stags of Broadhaven
Located off the Mullet Peninsula, the Stags of Broadhaven are a group of jagged sea stacks rising dramatically from the ocean. Local folklore and legend surround these formations, and they’re a haven for marine birds and occasional dolphins.
Seeing them from the water is unforgettable — the Atlantic swell, seabirds diving, and the haunting shapes of the rocks make this a highlight of longer boat trips.
4. Aughris Head & Killala Bay
Closer to home, Aughris Head and Killala Bay showcase the beauty of Sligo and Mayo’s shared coastline. This area is rich with wildlife: seals basking on rocks, terns and gannets fishing, and sometimes pods of dolphins escorting the boat.
The bay itself is calm and sheltered, making it ideal for shorter trips and family-friendly tours.
5. Hidden Caves and Coastal Wonders
Not all treasures are marked on a map. On your Enniscrone Boat Tour, you’ll also discover secret sea caves, blowholes, and hidden coves carved by the Atlantic over centuries. Each trip is unique — depending on tides and weather, your skipper will guide you to different surprises along the way.
Wildlife Encounters Along the Way
As well as these landmarks, keep an eye out for dolphins, porpoises, seals, and seabirds. The waters around Enniscrone are alive with marine life, making every tour an exciting mix of scenery and wildlife spotting.
Tips for Visitors
- Choose your tour length: Shorter 1-hour trips are perfect for families, while half-day and full-day excursions let you reach landmarks like Dún Briste and the Stags of Broadhaven.
- Best times to go: Summer offers longer daylight and calmer seas, but spring and autumn bring incredible bird activity.
- What to bring: A camera, light jacket, and a sense of adventure!
Experience the Wild Atlantic Way with Enniscrone Boat Tours
From ancient sea stacks to hidden caves, every journey along the Atlantic coast is unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a photography adventure, or a chance to see Ireland’s coastline from a whole new perspective, Enniscrone Boat Tours has the perfect trip for you.