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• Blackwater Cruises

Cruise along the Majestic River Blackwater……

‘Maeve Og’ is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat painted white, orange and blue.

“Maeve Og” will leave from Youghal jetty, adjacent to Youghal Visitor Centre, and travel North up the River Blackwater, past Rhincrew and towards the old bridge and the remains of Templemichael Castle.   Passing historic Molana Abbey on the left, we enter a tranquil, unspoilt area of natural beauty, as yet untouched by urban development.   The Blackwater Cruise tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, subject to weather and tides. The boat may also be chartered for longer trips. “Maeve Og” is captained by Tony Gallagher and his faithful first mate,”Pharaoh”. Simply give Tony a ring at  087-9889076   to book your cruise.

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Call now to book a trip on the River Blackwater.

+353 87 9889076

The River Blackwater

The Blackwater or Munster Blackwater (as Gaeilge: An Abhainn Mhór, The Great River) is a river which flows through counties Kerry, Cork, and Waterford in Ireland. It rises in the Mullaghareirk Mountains in County Kerry and then flows in an easterly direction through County Cork, through Mallow and Fermoy. It then enters County Waterford where it flows through Lismore, before abruptly turning south at Cappoquin, and finally draining into the sea at Youghal Harbour.

In total, the Blackwater is 168 kilometres long. It is notable for being one of the best salmon fishing rivers in the country.

Your Captain

Blackwater Cruises is operated daily between May and September by Tony Gallagher.

To ensure your cruise is booked for a time that suits you, give Tony a ring anytime on  +353 (87) 9889076

'Maeve' is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat painted white, orange and blue. She was originally used as a passenger boat in Dingle Bay, Co. Kerry, for bringing people out to see Fungi the Dolphin but Maeve has now settled into her latest role as a ferry for those who wish to sample the hidden delights of Cork's River Blackwater.

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Blackwater Cruises

Blackwater Cruises operate daily between May and September.The best way to book your cruise is to call Tony Gallagher on his mobile phone. To ensure your cruise is booked for the time that suits you best, just give Tony a ring anytime.

The Tour We leave from Youghal jetty and travel North up the River Blackwater, past Rhincrew and towards the old bridge and the remains of Templemichael Castle. Passing Molana Abbey on the left, we enter a tranquil, unspoilt area of natural beauty, as yet untouched by urban development. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes subject to weather and tides.

The Boat ‘Maeve’ is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat painted white, orange and blue. She was originally used as a passenger boat in Dingle Bay, Co. Kerry, for bringing people out to see Fungi the Dolphin but Maeve has now settled into her latest role as a ferry for those who wish to sample the hidden delights of Cork’s River Blackwater. Maeve is Captained by Tony Gallagher and his first mate, Pharaoh.

The Blackwater The Blackwater or Munster Blackwater (as Gaeilge: An Abhainn Mhór, The Great River) is a river which flows through counties Kerry, Cork, and Waterford in Ireland. It rises in the Mullaghareirk Mountains in County Kerry and then flows in an easterly direction through County Cork, through Mallow and Fermoy. It then enters County Waterford where it flows through Lismore, before abruptly turning south at Cappoquin, and finally draining into the sea at Youghal Harbour.

Contact Details

Phone: +353(87)9889076

Monday to Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm. Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm. Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays

Phone: +353(58)41741

Email: [email protected]

Dungarvan Tourist Information Office, 51 Main Street, (Parnell Street), Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, Ireland

Website by: Déise Design

11 Of The Best Things To Do In Youghal (And Nearby)

By Author Johnny Friel

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

There are plenty of things to do in Youghal, regardless of when you visit.

This magical seaside town is also the most easterly of the many towns in Cork and, for some strange reason, it often gets missed by those visiting the Rebel County.

While it’s name and location is elusive to many, this hidden gem in the Ancient East has been a popular tourist spot since the mid 19th century.

In the guide below, you’ll discover heaps of things to do in Youghal, from incredible walks and historic landmarks and to plenty to see and do nearby.

Table of Contents

Our favourite things to do in Youghal

Photo by Kieran Moore (Shutterstock)

The first section of our guide tackles  our  favourite things to do in Youghal, from coffee from Priory to rambles along Youghal Beach.

1. Kick start your visit with something tasty from Priory Coffee Co.

Photos via Priory Coffee on Facebook

This little cafe is a must for coffee fans visiting Youghal. There is a wide selection of gourmet toasties on offer, from smoked chicken to goat’s cheese to veggie ploughmans. The wraps here are ideal for the health-conscious like the smashed avocado with feta and peppers.

Aside from tasty toasties and wraps, there are pastries, cakes and many other treats. You have your breakfast and brunch classics here too like eggs Benedict however brunch is only until 12pm.

Related read:  Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Youghal (from fancy feeds to cheap and tasty eats)

2. The ramble down to the Youghal Clock Gate Tower

Photo by Corey Macri (Shutterstock)

A visit to the Clock Gate Tower is arguably one of the most popular things to do in Youghal and you’ll find it in the centre of the town.

Standing at 24 metres in hight, this historic landmark boasts a rich history that dates back over 700 years, and you can learn all about it on the tour.

The tour offers a unique sensory experience in the Merchants Quarters where you can smell spices and see smooth silks. You can also see the gaol cell and catch panoramic views from the top of the tower.

3. Gulp down a lungful of sea air with a walk on Youghal Beach

Youghal is home to some of the best beaches in Cork . The great thing about Youghal is that there are actually 4 beaches. Claycastle and Redbarn beach actually join together creating a 3 mile stretch.

This is great spot for a ramble and there are lots of spots for a picnic or to kick back with a coffee. Public car park and toilet facilities are conveniently onsite too.

Front Strand Beach and Claycastle Blue Flag beach are also both within walking distance of the town centre. 

4. Step back in time at The Raleigh Quarter

Photo by jean morrison (Shutterstock)

Situated in Youghal’s historic centre is Youghal’s Raleigh Quarter . This hidden gem was restored over many years and gives visitors a powerful insight into the town’s turbulent past.

You can take a tour of St Mary’s Collegiate Church, either self-guided with audio or with a tour guide/storyteller. You can also visit the interactive interpretive centre, where you can see the timeline from 1,220 to present day.

If you head to the 13th century town walls, you can get some panoramic views of the town and there is an ancient graveyard trail to explore. Or you can just relax in the medieval gardens.

5. Take a cruise along the beautiful Blackwater River

There is no better way to enjoy the Blackwater river than by climbing aboard a boat and sailing down it. “ Maeve Og ” is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat that also operates as a tour boat.

You can start the voyage from Youghal jetty which is opposite the Youghal Visitor Centre and then head north up the river, past Rhicrew and then towards the old bridge.

You will also get a glimpse of the castle runs of Templemichael before reaching an unspoiled area full of natural beauty.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Youghal, you can’t go wrong with a river cruise. The whole tour lasts around 90 minutes though the boat can be chartered for longer trips.

Things to do in Youghal when it’s lashing down

Photos via Aura Youghal Leisure Centre on Facebook

The next section of our guide is packed with things to do in Youghal when it’s lashing down. Below, you’ll find everything from the Funfair to the cinema and much more.

1. Perks Funfair & East Cork Superbowl

Photo via Perks Funfair

If you’re in search of things to do in Youghal with kids, look no further than this place . Interestingly enough, the 70,000 sq ft Perks Funfair is one of the biggest of its kind in Ireland.

There is a large selection of games, rides, attractions on offer along with what’s called a ‘showboat casino’… no, I don’t know what that is either.

2. Youghal Heritage Centre

Photo via Google Maps

Situated within the Tourist Officer in the old Market House and overlooking the Youghal quay and jetty is the heritage centre .

You can find a whole range of exhibits rich in history, from the artefacts to the detailed illustrations to 3d models and more.

Visitors can discover how this little seaside town was shaped by prominent figures throughout its history while also getting a glimpse at what life was like many years ago.

Another great reason to visit is that it’s free! It’s also open all year round and the staff are more than happy to help you with any questions you might have. 

3. Catch a movie at The Regal Cinema

Photo via Regal Cinema Youghal on Facebook

Ok so you can go to the cinema just about anywhere but what about Irelands oldest cinema? Built sometime in 1936, this stunning cinema reopened back in the summer of 2018 after a year-long renovation.

There are 2 screens which show the latest Hollywood blockbusters and the old classics as well. Movies are projected on high definition 4k digital technology.

The cinema comes with a luxurious mezzanine level in screen 1, occasionally used as a private space for events. Film fanatics can also enjoy a glass of wine upstairs in the new Regal Wine Bar & Cafe.

4. Head for a swim at Aura

If the weather calls for a day indoors but you still want to get your feet wet, then the Aura Leisure Centre is your best bet.

The leisure centre comes with state of the art facilities and an extensive selection of exercise equipment if you fancy a workout. The indoor aerobics studio offers a diverse range of classes like pilates, indoor cycling and boxercise.

The 25 metre swimming pool is the real draw here. If yo’re not a member, don’t stress as you can pay as you go.

Things to do near Youghal

Photo by mikemike10 (Shutterstock)

So, while there are plenty of things to do in Youghal, there are 5 times as many places to visit nearby, which make Youghal a great base to explore from.

Below, you’ll find heaps of things to do near Youghal, from cliff walks and historic sites to hikes, Cork City and much more.

1. The Ardmore Cliff Walk (21 mins away)

Photo by Chris Hill

This 4km walk will take you on a journey through stunning seascapes, panoramic views, ancient battle sites, legends and the chance to spot some local wildlife too.

The Ardmore Cliff Walk takes roughly 1 hour to complete and it’s signposted with yellow arrows on a brown background.

Start from the village of Ardmore, head up past the Cliff House Hotel and then you go around Ardmore head and Ram head.

You will find an amazing cliff-top paths and the laneways of the Early Christian St Declan’s Well. You will also pass a shipwreck known as Sampson, which was destroyed during a heavy storm in 1988. Have a ramble along Ardmore Beach when you’re done.

2. The Ballycotton Cliff Walk (33-mins away)

Photo via Luca Rei (Shutterstock)

Next up is the brilliant Ballycotton Cliff Walk , which starts in Ballycotton and ends in Ballyandreen (or the other way round). 

The walk stretches for 3.5 km each way and much of the trail is flanked by meadows. You’ll will come across a small beach, and a plethora of coastal scenery.

This walk should be doable for people with moderate fitness levels, however, you can also just do a portion of it if you don’t fancy giving the full trail a crack. 

3. Cork City (31 mins away)

No trip to Ireland’s Ancient East would be complete without a wee trip to Cork City. Cork is a great city for exploring and it’s compact and very walkable.

You could easily conquer many of the best things to do in Cork City in just one day. The City is well-known for food (drop into the English Market ) and its lively pubs .

There is also Cork City Gaol , the Butter Museum , the mighty Elizabeth Fort , Blackrock Castle and the beautiful Saint Finn Barre’s Cathedral . 

4. Fota Wildlife Park (32 minutes away)

Photos via Fota Wildlife Park on Facebook

Located on 100 acres at Fota Island, Fota Island Wildlife Park brings in around 440,000 visitors a year. It’s also the second biggest visitor attraction in Ireland outside of Leinster.

There are all kinds of animals here and you can observe them in habitats replicated like the ones that they would live in in the wild. There’s also plenty of things to do in Cobh when you finish.

FAQs about the best things to do in Youghal

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from active things to do in Youghal to where to visit nearby.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Youghal?

Head for a ramble along Youghal Beach, visit the Raleigh Quarter and see the often-missed Youghal Clock Gate Tower.

Where is there to visit close to Youghal?

There’s an endless number of things to see and do near Youghal, from cliff walks and scenic hikes to Cork City and much more (see above).

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Ballycotton Sea Adventures

Ballycotton island lighthouse tours, ballycotton island lighthouse, sea adventures, 360° view over all of east cork.

The boat trip takes approximately 15 minutes each way and the tour of Ballycotton Lighthouse is approximately 1 hour. We ask you to present a print out of your ticket at the pontoon on Ballycotton Pier where you will meet your guide. Your guide will give a safety briefing before boarding our passenger boat.

Ballycotton Lighthouse Tour

Our tour boats carry a skipper, a guide and 10 visitors. Multiply trips can be organised for larger parties.

Ballycotton Lighthouse Island is a wild, natural and unspoiled experience and due to the island’s rustic nature the tour requires a certain degree of agility and love of adventure. We regret that the tour is not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs, pets and children under 3.

In the event of adverse weather conditions preventing us from docking at the lighthouse island we will provide a guided boat tour to the island however, we reserve the right to cancel sailings if necessary.

Our mission is that everyone leaves Ballycotton Island Lighthouse Tours having had a unique, magical and enjoyable excursion. Safety is paramount to this positive visitor experience.

Key Information

We operate every day from 10am till 4pm

€27 / person 12+; €16  /child 3-12, €80 /family ticket 2+2

children under 3 are not allowed

The tour lasts  approximately about 90 minutes (15min on the boat, 60min on the island/ lighthouse, 15min on the on the boat on return way)

All tours are led by experienced local guides

Tours can be cancelled due to the weather conditions (east direction of the wind, which unable to dock on the island or very strong wind)

Lighthouse gallery

Lighthouse 1, testimonials.

Elpa_Cork Oct 2021

An Outstanding Day on Ballycotton Island Lighthouse Tour "An outstanding day out in exceptional weather for this time of year (October). The tour is well run with an excellent guide and boat captain. Safety is of primary concern so we were all issued with proper lifejackets before departure. The history and social living conditions of the lighthouse keepers on the island are very well explained. Ballycotton holds a treasured place in Ireland's marine history and our guide was able to point out the Smiths Reef where the SS. Sirius ran aground and was lost in 1847. This caused the lighthouse to be built on Ballycotton Island rather than Capel Island off Youghal which is further East. Overall an outstanding tour. Well done to our guide, Heather and our captain Paddy. Go Raibh Mile Maith Agaibh. Liam and family"

James S Aug 2021

One of the best things to do around Cork. Great family experience "Had a great tour on a fantastic sunny August day with amazing views from the island. Hazel was a brilliant tour guide and paid extra attention to my inquisitive 5 year old and equally curious 3 year old.

It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Cork. The boat trip is nice and smooth - not too long! The island and lighthouse tour is really interesting."

Paula Galvin Aug 2021

Eddie the expert guide. "Eddie our expert guide was a delight on this tour. A wealth of knowledge combined with a fine sense of humour made this a wonderful tour, thoroughly enjoyed by ourselves and the other five occupants of our boat. Eddie had been a lighthouse keeper, not only in Ballycotton but in lighthouses the length and breadth of the country so he was able to tell us some great stories about his time. It is such a shame to see this lighthouse and the two cottages being left to become ruins but we did manage to climb the two staircases of the lighthouse and imagine what it would have been like in its glory days, all gleaming brass and ship shape. Thank you Eddie for sharing your passion of lighthouses with us!"

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