What to do and see in County Cork, Province of Munster: The Best Outdoor Activities

Based in the South West of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way and established in 1995. We are Ireland's premier sea kayaking company. We believe in providing a safe, enjoyable and memorable experience for all who join us. We also hire sit on top kayaks and Stand Up Paddle Boards. We include cultural and wildlife experiences.

Baltimore Sea Safari is a family run boat trip business from Baltimore in West Cork, Ireland, providing coastal sightseeing tours, with whale, dolphin, porpoise, seal and wildlife watching. Our aim is to introduce our passengers to the outstanding beauty of the West Cork coastline, while looking out for the wildlife that may be in the area. The waters off Baltimore offer the perfect environment to see whales, dolphins, porpoise, basking shark, seals and a wide variety of seabirds. We operate in an area of exceptional unspoiled natural beauty within Carbery Hundred Isles, Roaringwater Bay (which is a designated Special Area of Conservation SAC) and the Ilen River, which are home to the most diverse range of sea and bird life to be seen anywhere in Ireland. During our boat trips we provide an informative commentary on the sights of interest, and on the fascinating history of the area and its wildlife. We visit seal colonies on all of our boat trips, and the shallow draft and high manoeuvrability of unique boat allows us to take passengers into sea caves previously used by smugglers and pirates. During all of our boat trips we collect data on the wildlife that we encounter, logging times, numbers, behaviour, positions and take photos for photo ID where ever possible. This data is shared with other agencies, groups and universities to help develop a better understanding of the whales, dolphins, porpoise, basking sharks, seals, ocean sunfish and other wildlife that frequent the waters around the West Cork coastline. We also have an onboard Hydrophone for listening to the sounds of the sea. Even though we have a good record for whale, dolphin and wildlife sightings, they are not guaranteed.

Mizen to Malin with Wild Atlantic cycling is an end-to-end bike tour of Ireland. Think of it as the Irish equivalent of Britain’s Land’s End to John O’Groats, but with rugged coastline, Irish music, unique landscapes and lively pubs. Ireland's end-to-end really is something different.

Colin Barnes is Ireland's longest established and best known whale watch operator, and has been enthralling whale watchers and wildlife enthusiasts in West Cork since 2001. Cork Whale Watch offers wonderful opportunities to observe marine wildlife in West Cork. These productive coastal waters provide critical feeding habitat for a diversity of species including cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises), seals and sea birds, along with prolific fish life.If you've seen natural history documentaries on whales from anywhere in Co. Cork or Waterford, the chances are it was filmed from the MV Holly Jo. Among Colin's contributions are: RTE's "Wild trials", "Wild Journeys", "Living the Wildlife" and in recent years Colin has worked with both BBC Autumnwatch and Winterwatch and BBC Seasons to film large whales off the Cork coast. As a former fisherman of 40 years experience observing whales in West Cork, Colin may not have letters after his name, but those that do, know who to contact if they need to find, film or carry out research on whales and dolphins along the Cork coast. Colin has contributed to and co-authored scientific publications on both fin and humpback whales in collaboration with Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), and contributes to the All-Ireland Cetacean Sighting Scheme, by reporting sightings data to IWDG. Colin is a rare breed of conservationist, who has evolved from the fishing industry, his passion and understanding of local marine ecosystems is second to none. Colin is available for longer filming and research charters year round.

Cork Harbour Boat Hire allows you to explore the vast depths of Cork Harbour on a fantastic boating adventure. This is an ideal day out in Cork for groups of all ages and sizes, with the easy to drive boats making it very easy to navigate the waters with Cork Harbour Boat Hire. There is so much to explore in Cork Harbour, and this fantastic boat trip is an ideal way to take in the fresh sea air and see another side of Cork. The waters of Cork Harbour are full of fascinating history and captivating sights. With a vast array of wildlife known to inhabit the region, you will have great fun trying to spot all the different birds and sea creatures. Take a trip around Spike Island, the old monastic settlement and prison which resides in the middle of Cork Harbour. Cork Harbour Boat Hire makes this wonderful adventure on the open seas straightforward and accessible for everyone. These easy to drive boats make it possible for anyone to enjoy a brisk sail around Cork Harbour. With tours ranging from one hour to three and four hour adventure tours, there is something to suit groups of all ages. You will receive full training before setting out on the water, ensuring everyone can enjoy their trip around Cork Harbour safely. Cork Harbour Boat Hire are now open in Cork City and are based at The Port of Cork Marina. Take a trip under some of the historic bridges of Cork right up to the Franciscan Well or take a trip to Blackrock Castle and maybe spot a seal or two on your way! No matter which route you take, you are guaranteed an enjoyable boat trip. Our tours are led by a fully qualified safety boat guide, who allows you to independently explore and discover Cork Harbour while showcasing the Harbours natural beauty. From the water visit the Irish Naval base, cruise past Spike Island, spot the sights; St.Colman’s Cathedral, Cobh’s seaside Promenade, view the historic White Star line ticket office and original pier where the last Titanic passengers disembarked on its fatal voyage and more all while skippering your very own boat.

45 minutes from Cork city and you will be transported on an exclusive historical natural visitor experience. A charming 10-seater passenger ferry 'Yassy' and a local guide will transport you to the previously inaccessible island; up the steep grassy incline to the summit and inside the black tower and onto the lantern balcony. Only goats live on the island.. sometimes they come and say hello!