Damien O’Malley, a fourth-generation fisherman raised along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, has launched Roundstone Bay & Island Tours to share the region’s coastal beauty and wildlife with visitors. Operating from Roundstone Harbor in Connemara, Damien runs tours aboard his custom-built 21-foot boat, Benbaun, offering intimate, small-group experiences that highlight the area’s beaches, islands and marine life.
© Damien O’Malley
All tours visit the pristine beaches of Gurteen and Dog’s Bay and include a visit to the uninhabited island of Inishlacken. Wildlife encounters are a highlight: Roundstone Bay is home to dolphins, seals, sunfish, otters and the occasional basking shark. Tours are designed for a maximum of five guests, ensuring a personal, relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife watching.
There are four main tour options, plus private hires for groups who prefer a bespoke itinerary.
Eco Tour — €100
A one-hour coastal cruise for up to five guests. The Eco Tour focuses on scenic views across Roundstone Bay and the nearby islands, making it ideal for those who want a short, informative outing to appreciate the landscape and wildlife.
Drop Off & Pick Up — €100
This option carries up to five guests to Inishlacken for a flexible day ashore. Guests can bring provisions and choose their preferred drop-off and pick-up times, perfect for families or friends planning a self-directed island visit.
Landing Tour — €180
A 2.5-hour tour for up to five guests that includes a full circuit of Roundstone Bay followed by a landing on Inishlacken. This tour allows visitors more time to explore the island’s shoreline and take in its quiet beauty.
Catch & Cook — €450 per person
A three-hour experience combining seafaring and dining. The trip explores the bay while setting and hauling crab and lobster pots. After the cruise, the boat returns to Ervallagh harbor where the skipper prepares and cooks the catch, supplemented with additional local seafood. Guests dine in the seaside garden and enjoy their fresh lunch accompanied by a glass of bubbles.
© Damien O’Malley
Roundstone is an easily accessible base for these tours, located about an hour from Galway city. Visitors will find a range of accommodation options nearby, from traditional bed and breakfasts to hotels in Galway. In the village itself there are several welcoming pubs and eateries serving local fare, providing good options for pre- or post-tour meals and drinks.
Roundstone Bay & Island Tours emphasizes sustainable, small-group experiences led by a local guide who knows the area and its marine life intimately. Whether you want a short wildlife cruise, a day on a remote island, a longer exploration with a landing, or a hands-on seafood meal, these tours offer an authentic way to enjoy Connemara’s dramatic coastline and rich natural heritage.