Accessibility Welcome Guide

Welcome to Inishbofin Experiences, your gateway to discovering the charm, history, and landscape of Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway.
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore and enjoy the island’s natural beauty, regardless of mobility, sensory, or access needs.
Our team is committed to making your visit safe, inclusive, and memorable.

1. Accessibility Contact & Support

If you have access requirements, mobility aids, or specific needs, please get in touch so we can assist with planning your visit.

Accessibility Contact / Team: Inishbofin Experiences Team
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +353 95 45895
Address: Middlequarter, Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway, H91 TC6C, Ireland
Response target: within 2–3 working days

2. Travel & Arrival Guidance

By Ferry:
Inishbofin Island is accessible via ferry from Cleggan Pier. Boarding is generally step-free but can vary with tide and weather.
If you require assistance or have mobility needs, please contact us or the ferry operator in advance.
For early boarding, please contact the ferry operator directly via their Contact Us page.

On-Island Travel:
Once on the island, roads are narrow and mostly suited to walking or cycling. We can advise on routes most suitable for wheelchairs or limited mobility.
There is no public transport on the island; however, one local taxi service is available.

By Air or Car:
The nearest mainland airports are Knock (Ireland West) and Shannon, with onward road travel to Cleggan.

3. Key Accessibility Features & Experiences

Experience / Area Access Summary Notes & Considerations Assistance / Alternatives
Guided Walking Tours Variable Terrain may include uneven paths, slopes, and grassy surfaces. Shorter, easier routes available; walking aids recommended.
Island Ferry & Pier Access Partial Wheelchair-accessible gangway (dependent on tide/sea). Notify operator in advance for staff boarding support.
Local Crafts & Gift Shop Generally accessible Mostly level indoor space; some doors may have thresholds. Staff can assist; no outdoor display area available.
Outdoor Nature & Viewing Points Mixed Some paths long, sloped, or uneven. Staff can recommend flat and short viewpoints.
Accommodation & Dining Venues Varies Most island properties are older with steps or narrow entrances. We can recommend accessible accommodation options.

4. Facilities & Supports

  • Some accessible toilets are available in businesses around the island. None in the Community Centre at the moment (we’re working on this).

  • Assistance available at ferry boarding and tour starting points.

  • Quiet rest areas available along routes and in cafés.

  • Staff training underway for disability awareness and assistance.

  • Assistance dogs welcome across island venues.

5. Sensory & Planning Tools

  • Advance route descriptions and images available.

  • No large-print materials currently available (maps are provided by another island company).

  • Quiet or low-sensory areas are not currently available.

  • Early boarding options on ferries available on request through the operator.

6. Emergency & Medical Info

  • Nearest hospital: University Hospital Galway (mainland).

  • Local clinic: On the island, with on-call nurse available — +353 87 799 8613.

  • Nearest pharmacy: Clifden or Westport (mainland).

  • Emergency services: Dial 112 / 999 and specify “Inishbofin Island.”

  • First-aid trained personnel available for guided experiences and tours.

7. Visitor Stories

(Please confirm or provide verified testimonials before including this section — original examples have been removed pending source confirmation.)

8. Known Limitations & Ongoing Improvements

Known limitations:

  • Some walking trails and coastal routes have uneven or rocky terrain not suitable for all wheelchairs.

  • Ferry boarding gradients can change with tide and weather.

  • Limited indoor spaces with wide doorways and level thresholds.

  • There is no public transport on the island; however, one local taxi service is available.

Ongoing improvements:

  • Working with ferry and accommodation partners to standardise accessible routes and ramps.

  • Creating downloadable maps with graded trail difficulty and access details.

  • Introducing more rest points and clear route signage.

  • Continuing staff training for inclusive visitor support.

Last updated: 29.10.2025 • Next review: [DD Month YYYY]

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