Protected sectors

What's the story here?

Ballymastocker Bay is an east-facing bay located about five miles within and on the western shore of Lough Swilly. The gradually shelving bay is open, free of dangers and entered between Portsalon and Saldanha Head, a distance of about 2 miles. The preferred anchorage is situated in the northern part of the bay, just south of the pier at Portsalon which is sheltered by the rugged cliffs on the mainland to the west.

How to get in?

Approaches to the Lough Swilly can be found in northwestern Ireland’s coastal overview for Erris Head to Malin Head . A set of waypoints to assist with the run up the lough as far as Fanad can be found in the Lough Swilly route . The entire length of Lough Swilly is marked with various easily identified navigation lights along the main deepwater shipping channel and the bay is clear of outlying dangers.




Anchor according to draft or conditions in excellent sand holding. The usual location is close south of the pier in 2 to 5 metres. Land on the beach or at the pier that has 0.5 metres at its head. It may be possible to come alongside temporarily.

Why visit here?

Ballymastocker Bay, sometimes also known as Portsalon Beach, is a beautiful crescent-shaped east-facing bay encompassed by green fields that give some sheltered protection from the prevailing winds to the beach below.



The bay was once voted the second most beautiful in the world by readers of the Observer Magazine, only pipped to the post by a beach in venerable Seychelles, and is rated as one of the Top 10 in the World by the Lonely Planet. When you see it you’ll understand why. Heather-covered mountains plunge into the translucent blue seas with a broad golden beach between, that extends for miles from the foot of Knockalla Hill all the way to Portsalon. This is a truly spectacular Blue Flag beach with fabulous views towards the Inishowen Peninsula opposite. Unlike many other outstanding beaches, apart from a couple of other families on a sunny day, you are most likely to have it all to yourself.




The small coastal hamlet of Portsalon, at its northern end, derives its name from the Irish Port an Salainn meaning 'port of the salt'. There is no actual village of Portsalon, but the main area of cottages are clustered around its small stone pier where a grocery shop and bar, combined in one little building, and a cafe are located. The ship's bell of the bullion-laden HMS Laurentic, sunk in 1917 by a minelaying submarine, was salvaged and now serves the congregation of Portsalon's small church.




There are other shops and bars a short distance to the south of this area which cater mainly for the recently built holiday cottages that enjoy views of Ballymastocker Bay. Portsalon Golf Club lies nearby attracting many visitors to this quiet and tranquil corner of west Donegal and it can be considered a must for any golf enthusiast aboard.

From a cruising point of view, this is a lovely anchorage with all the necessities and a useful pier to land on at Portsalon. It is particularly perfect for boats with a young family aboard.

What facilities are available?

With the exception of the pier, the grocery store cum bar, and the cafe, there are no facilities at Ballymastocker Bay. The large town of Letterkenny, 20 miles south, has a wide range of shops and other facilities.

With thanks to:

Graham Wilkinson. Photography with thanks to Brian Deeney of Donegal Cottage Holidays.