Aughinish Bay lies 6 miles east of Black Head on the southern shore of Galway Bay situated directly on the border between County Clare and County Galway on the west coast of Ireland.

It is a shallow narrow creek that meanders approximately 3 miles inland in an easterly direction leading eventually to Corranroo Bay at its head, which is very shallow and encumbered with sandbanks and as there are no landing places it is not recommended that boats should go this far in.

The entrance to Aughinish Bay south of Aughinish Point is straightforward, and boats should anchor in 3 metres depth at or above New Quay which is situated on the southern shore less than 1 mile from the entrance of the bay.

It is important to note that there are strong tidal streams at this anchorage off New Quay which makes it uncomfortable particularly in northwest winds as there are overfalls on the ebb and a yacht will be tide robe. Under these circumstances go further up the bay, sounding continuously as the channel is unmarked.

Keyfacts for Aughinish Bay

Position and approaches

Haven position

53° 9.383' N, 009° 4.560' W

this is the position of the pierhead at New Quay, Aughinish Bay.

What is the initial fix?

This is midway between the Black Rock Buoy, Fl.R.3s, and that of the Margaretta Marker Buoy, Fl.G.3s. It is the three miles out from Leverets light tower and in its leading white sector. A course of 062°(T) towards the tower will lead into the Galway Roadstead and set up a final approach to Galway Docks.

Not what you need?

To find locations with the specific attributes you need try:

How to get in?

inyourfootsteps.com has identified this as a boat haven and asks readers with first-hand experience to contact us so we may fully write up this location. In the meantime we have posted our preliminary research notes alongside the haven position, tidal data, current wind and weather, satellite images plus charting information.

If, on the other hand, you have been to this haven and experienced it, please contact us by clicking the “Correct” button below. If you could provide us with your details so we may contact you, or indeed send us information directly, it would be very much appreciated. This will enable us to complete this Haven, sharing it for the common good of the entire sailing community.

Why visit here?

Although only a short distance from Galway city, Aughinish Bay is a remote and quiet location that has few if any landing places and consequently no facilities. The border between Counties Clare and Galway runs directly down the centre of the bay, which is located in the northeast corner of The Burren, an area of great rocky expanse considered by many to be a unique landscape.

Limestone areas like The Burren are famous for their large cave systems, and there are two caves which are open to the public, the Aillwee Caves, and since 2006 the Doolin Cave with one of the largest stalactites known to the world.

In suitable conditions Aughinish Bay is an interesting spot to drop anchor for a quiet lunch break before heading into Galway itself with all the necessary shops and facilities, or continuing on a coastal passage to the Aran islands.

What facilities are available?

there are no facilities available at this location.

With thanks to:

inyoufootsteps.com site research.