The Kinsale - Dingle 2 Week Cruise

"Ireland, one of Europe's last European sailing paradises"
Libby Purves, Yachting Monthly

1 2 Travel, in association with Sail Ireland Charters, offers you the opportunity to spend two weeks of sailing around the South West coast of Ireland.

The coastline between Kinsale and Dingle is the most popular cruising area on the Irish Coast. It combines short sea passages with vast protected sailing areas. The clear waters are warmed by the Gulf Stream, adding to this wonderful experience.

Sail Ireland, Ireland's Premier Yacht Charter Company, has the largest selection of yachts to choose from. Ranging in size from 35ft to 51 ft, the yachts are selected for performance and ease of handling. You will leave Kinsale, travelling around the South West Coast of Ireland, until you reach Dingle. Continuing on, you will finish back in Kinsale on Day Thirteen.

Alternatively you may also create your own itinerary for the ultimate yacht cruising holiday and choose a yacht from one of the two bases in Kinsale, Co.Cork or Dingle, Co.Kerry. Weekly cruises or weekend breaks are also available.

Itinerary
Day 1: Kinsale
You will start your journey in the town of Kinsale. Having checked over your yacht, provisions will be ordered and delivered. You can then relax for the day in this famous and lovely harbour town.

Day 2: Kinsale-Glandore 32 miles
Sail out of Kinsale, a natural harbour that has sheltered ships down through the ages. Passing Charles Fort and James Fort, the Old Head of Kinsale .. turn south west past Seven Heads and Galley Head for the harbour of Glandore. Two rocks, Adam and Eve obstruct the entrance, but the saying goes.... Avoid Adam and Hug Eve.... by day, it is a straightforward entry. Stay in this pretty village for the night.

Day 3: Glandore - Baltimore 20 miles
Barlogue is a lovely stopping place at the mouth of Lough Hyne, ideal as an anchorage for lunch on board. Lay anchor and take your tender ashore to explore the rapids and Lough Hyne by foot. The scenery and flora are exceptional. Experience the delights of Baltimore and Sherkin Island.

Day 4: Baltimore - Schull via Fastnet Rock 25 miles
Leave Baltimore, sailing south of Cape Clear Island, around the Fastnet Rock. Head North into Long Island Bay past Carbery's 100 islands towards Schull.

Day 5: Schull - Glengarriff 35 miles
Sail from Schull past Long Island, the largest of Carbery's Hundred Islands, towards Mizen Head, the southernmost headland. You will see the magnificent white lighthouse connected to the mainland by a spectacular bridge. Then pass Sheep's Head and sail into Bantry Bay, before anchorage in Glengarriff. Here, a visit to the tropical gardens of Garinish Island is an absolute must.