Welcome — A Note on Accessibility
We want you here. That’s the first thing to say.
Before that, though, an honest word about the journey, because we’d rather you know now than find out on the day.
Clare Island is reached by ferry, and getting here involves a few real physical challenges we can’t change. The steps down to the boat at Roonagh Harbour on the mainland aren’t adapted for wheelchair or limited-mobility access. The crossing itself means boarding and disembarking a working ferry, which depends on tides, weather, and the boat you’re on — and the landing here on the island has the same conditions. We say this not to put you off, but because we think you deserve to plan with your eyes open, and to bring family, friends, or extra help if that makes the crossing easier.
If you’re unsure what the crossing involves for your particular needs, get in touch with us or the ferry operator before you book. We’d genuinely rather talk it through with you in advance than have you arrive to a surprise.
Once you’re here, things change. Our centre and shop meet EU accessibility standards throughout — from entrances and pathways to tasting areas and toilets. And beyond the building itself, our team will do whatever we can to make your visit work for you. Tell us what you need, even if it’s not something we’ve planned for. We’d rather adapt on the spot than have you miss out.
Clare Island isn’t the easiest place to reach. But we think it’s worth it, and we’ll do our part to make sure your time with us matches that.
If you have any questions before you travel, reach out — we’re happy to help you plan.
Carl O Grady / Clare Island Whiskey Ltd
Contact Information
If you would like more information about accessibility or require assistance with planning your tour, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Telephone: +353 (0)874108706
Email: carlogrady@gmail.com
Website: www.clareislandwhiskey.ie
Social Media
- Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/clareislandwhiskey
- Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/clareislandwhiskey/
Our team aims to respond to accessibility-related enquiries within 2 business days.
Getting Here
By Car
Travel to Roonagh Harbour and purchase tickets with Clare Island Ferry Co (O’Gradys) https://maps.app.goo.gl/RDbQ31oFLcAVbQqBA.
By Train
Travel to Westport Town by train. Then take a bus to Louisburgh https://www.buseireann.ie/routes-and-timetables/450 and then a taxi to Roonagh Harbour and purchase tickets with Clare Island Ferry Co (O’Gradys) https://maps.app.goo.gl/RDbQ31oFLcAVbQqBA
By Bus
From Westport Town take a bus to Louisburgh https://www.buseireann.ie/routes-and-timetables/450 and then a taxi to Roonagh Harbour and purchase tickets with Clare Island Ferry Co (O’Gradys) https://maps.app.goo.gl/RDbQ31oFLcAVbQqBA
Parking
There is public parking spaces at Roonagh Harbour. Contact Clare Island Ferry Co Office for private diabled access parking on (098) 23737.
Address
Clare Island Whiskey Ltd
Bay View House / Clare Island Rentals
Clare Island
Westport
Co Mayo
Key Accessibility Features
Information
Detailed Accessibility Information
We provide comprehensive, third party-verified accessibility information to help visitors understand our facilities before they arrive. This ensures guests can make fully informed decisions and plan their visit with confidence.
Virtual Tour
Coming in 2027 – An interactive virtual tour is available on our website, offering a walk- or wheel-through view of our venue. This helps visitors preview spaces, understand layouts, and familiarise themselves with key facilities in advance of their visit
Large-Print Information On-Site
Large-print materials are available throughout the venue, including venue details, menus, and safety information. These resources feature high-contrast text in at least 16–18pt sans-serif fonts, supporting visitors with visual impairment.
Map or Floorplan Showing Accessibility Facilities
Coming in 2027 – We provide a detailed accessibility map/floorplan that highlights step-free routes, accessible toilets, sensory spaces, accessible parking, and distances between key areas. This resource is available online and on-site to aid visit planning.
English Braille or Audio Information
Key visitor information is offered in accessible formats, including Braille and audio versions. These include venue details, menus, and essential safety information to support guests who may prefer or require alternative formats.
Tactile Signage
Tactile signage is available throughout the venue, incorporating raised lettering, symbols, and Braille. This ensures clear navigation for blind and partially sighted visitors, particularly at toilets, lifts, and safety-critical areas.
Services
Disability Awareness or Equality Training
All staff receive disability awareness and equality training as part of their induction, with regular refresher sessions. This ensures our team can confidently support visitors with a wide range of access requirements.
Emergency Evacuation Plan for Visitors with Disabilities
We maintain General Emergency Evacuation Plans (GEEPs) that account for the needs of disabled visitors. Our team is trained to support swift, safe evacuation procedures for guests requiring assistance in an emergency.
Free Familiarisation Visits
We offer complimentary familiarisation visits, allowing guests to explore the venue in advance. This service helps individuals, families, carers, or support workers better prepare for their visit.
Fast-Track Queueing
Fast-track queueing is available for disabled customers, reducing wait times and easing access to key areas or activities. This service supports visitors who may experience distress, fatigue, or discomfort in queues.
Designated Quiet Times
We offer designated quiet times where noise, lighting, and general sensory stimulation are reduced. These calmer periods are ideal for visitors with sensory sensitivities, such as autistic guests or those
Facilities & Equipment
Assistive Listening System
An assistive listening system, such as a hearing loop, is available in key areas. Signage indicates effective zones so visitors using hearing aids or loop listeners can benefit from enhanced audio clarity.
Emergency Alarm with Flashing Lights
Emergency alarm systems include flashing strobe lights to alert Deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors in the event of a fire or emergency. These alarms are located throughout the venue for clear visibility.
Facilities for Assistance Dogs
We provide facilities for assistance dogs, including water bowls, a designated toilet area, and appropriate waste-disposal options. These facilities are located close to the main venue entrance for ease of use.
Enclosed Outdoor Area
A fully enclosed outdoor area is available for visitors to use. This space provides a safe, secure environment suitable for families, dog users, and visitors who may benefit from an outdoor break.
Wheelchair or Scooter Charging Point
At least one dedicated charging point is available on site for visitors’ wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
Wheelchair-Accessible Toilet in Public Areas
A dedicated wheelchair-accessible toilet is available in the main public areas. It features step-free access, a 1500mm x 1500mm manoeuvring area, outward-opening door, transfer space with drop-down grab rail, fixed grab rails, and an emergency assistance alarm reachable from the floor.
Seating at Regular Intervals
Seating is provided at approximately every 50 metres throughout the venue, offering regular rest points for visitors who need to pause during their journey.
Parking
Designated Accessible Parking
Accessible parking can be provided at Roonagh Harbour with Clare Island Ferry (O’Gradys) located within 150 meters of the main steps to the ferry. Contact main office at Roonagh for further information. (098) 23737.
Building Entrance
Step-Free Entrance
The venue offers step-free access at the main entrance. Entrances are fully accessible and welcoming for all visitors.
Access to Public Areas
Single Level Venue
The venue is situated on a single level with no steps or raised thresholds, enabling easy navigation for wheelchair users and others with mobility needs.
Café
Wheelchair-Accessible Food and Beverage Outlet
The café is fully accessible, featuring step-free entry, wide doorways, maneuvering space, and suitable table heights.
Rearrangeable Tables and Chairs
Tables and chairs can be rearranged on request to accommodate wheelchairs or specific access needs.
Table Service
Table service is available, either as standard or by request, to support visitors who may find self-service challenging.
Dietary Requirements Catered For
We cater for a wide range of dietary needs, including allergies, intolerances, religious dietary restrictions, vegan/vegetarian options, and softer-texture foods where needed.
Retail
Wheelchair-Accessible Retail Outlet
Our retail outlet offers step-free access, wide aisles, and sufficient space for wheelchair and mobility scooter users to browse comfortably.
Staff Assistance
Trained staff are available to assist disabled customers, such as retrieving items from high shelves or providing guided support for blind or partially sighted visitors.
Gallery of Images
Coming 2027 – A gallery of images is available to assist with pre-visit planning, showing arrival points, parking, entrances, indoor spaces, sensory rooms, toilets, staff uniforms, and outdoor areas.
Emergency and Medical Information
We provide details of nearby hospitals, GP surgeries, pharmacies, mobility equipment suppliers, and defibrillator locations. This helps visitors feel prepared and reassured during their visit.
Date Produced & Last Updated
We review and update our Access Welcome Guide regularly to ensure accuracy. Visitors are encouraged to contact us with feedback or suggestions to help us continue improving accessibility. Last updated: [13/07/2026] Next review: [13/07/2027]