How to get to Heir Island

Heir island is easily accessed on board the Heir Island Ferry from Cunamore Pier. Ferry timetables are available true this Link.
To find Cunamore pier please see our Getting Here page.

What times do the camps start and end?

Our Camps begin at 10am and end at 6pm. With higher numbers we may request students to be earlier than the regular starting time. This allows for smoother transport of equipment and people too the sailing school. If this is necessary don't worry you will be emailed in advance of the week.

Do you need experience?

Absolutely not. Our aim on Heir island sailing school is to get all sailors to a competent level of sailing knowledge and ability no matter what their starting level is. We will adjust the plan for the week accordingly.

Do I have to be able to swim?

No, although being comfortable being afloat in the water is helpful. We have an array of bouyancy aids and lifejackets to suit your needs. We will most likely suggest those who can't swim to wear lifejackets instead of buoyancy aids as this will give better buoyancy to those who can't swim.

What equipment do I need?

We suggest that each student has a wetsuit (full length preferably), a pair of neoprene sailing boots or an old pair of runners that you don't mind getting wet. On top of this a windproof jacket or a sailing cag is also highly suggested. We do have wetsuits available for rental but they are limited so to secure one it's best to express this need before the start of the course.

Can I customise an experience?

Yes we can customise an experience. For those who wish to have only a day or two refresher we can arrange a customised experience on request.

Can I charter or rent a boat

Our sailing dinghies and our kayaks are available for rental at any time during the week. Just shoot us an email and we'll be sure to get back in touch with availability and so on.

What about my valuables?

Within our sailing school we have two changing rooms for personal belongings. Furthermore our Sailing school is locked though out the day or is staffed by one of our instructors.

Can I get food on the island?

Food can be got on the island but it is mostly booking orientated. During Our regular sailing weeks packed lunches for everyone visiting or completing our courses is strongly strongly advised. Please see list below of places to eat on the island.

Amm's Homemade Heir Island Ice Cream. If you’re coming over or already on the island just give Amm a call on 0899653459 to see if or where she might be serving that day. Larger tubs can also be ordered from Amm, too. Please also follow Amm’s Homemade Heir Island Ice cream  on Instagram (@ammsicecream).

Pizzheria offers a outside dinning but booking in advance is essential to avoid disappointment. Please whatsapp Craig on 086 8070715 with your requested date, time and number of guests to book. 

Fuzzy Duck Café, The Café offers a small sandwich and salads menu. Limited seating is available and we ask customers to kindly respect a short duration rule on tables. The beach is less than a minute away with plenty of “table” space there with an ever better view!

Island Cottage also offers dinning. Further details can be found on www.islandcottage.com. All reservations are taken by phone +353-28-38102.

How do I access the Irish Sailing Passport Checklick System?

To find the check lick system enter Irish Sailing Checklick or click this Link.

Where should I check the weather for Heir Island?

The most accurate weather for the area can be obtained from wind guru. By selecting Sherkin Island as the location the weather forecast can be obtained easily. Sherkin island has a weather station of its own and through wind guru we get the most accurate forecast for the area.

What happens if there is very high winds during weekly courses?

Our general rule of thumb is if the ferry is running too the island we will still conduct our courses. Although it may not always be viable to get out onto the water due to the weather we have many more plans and ideas that we can use if this is the case. We at heir island sailing school will always strive to do our best no matter what the conditions.