Galway Bay

Galway approached from the water is a totally different experience from what you see and feel when reaching the coast by land. Whereas urban sprawl has surrounded the old city with post-modern developments, approaching by sea is reminiscent of a different era. A glorious Bay, with waters protected from the Atlantic yet unspoilt by the intrusion of man, one can sail into the harbour dreaming of simpler bygone times and heroic figures, often accompanied by traditional craft. 

On the North side of Galway Bay are the mountains of Connemara – with the Twelve Pins. On the Western side, the mouth of the Bay hosts the remarkable Aran Islands . On the South side are the hills of the Burren, which is a must-see when visiting by land. At the very head of the Bay is the inner harbour, a sanctum of deep water held in by a lock encompassed by the walls of a city built centuries past with serpentine streets, historic charm, and modern amenities.  Galway Bay Sailing Club is on New Harbour inside Rinville Point.  Their mooring field is fairly exposed in a westerly and in relatively shallow water (2m) but they do have occasional guest moorings and welcome visitors.  It is relatively far from GBSC to Galway town.

Galwegians make the most of their location on the edge of the Atlantic . They fish, swim, row, canoe, kitesurf and enjoy all kinds of water sports on the salt waters. During the warm summer months many enjoy a freshwater dip in the Corrib to cool down. Canoists ride the rapids along the river Corrib through the city year around, but it is particularly exciting in the spring when the water runoff is high.