Killybegs Sea Safari

Enjoy a fast RIB ride (rigid inflatable boat) to visit these two beautiful lighthouses guiding the way into Killybegs Harbour. Learn about their 190-year history as vital aids to navigation for the mariners of Ireland’s most important commercial fishing port. Climb the winding stairs for spectacular views of Donegal Bay and the Sliabh Liag/Slieve League Cliffs, and take in panoramas across the water to counties Fermanagh, Leitrim, Sligo and Mayo.

Killybegs, a quaint and picturesque coastal town located in the northwest of Ireland, in County Donegal, is a true gem that is not to be missed. It is well known for its thriving fishing industry, charming harbour, rugged natural beauty, and warm and welcoming locals. However, there are also a couple of lesser-known gems that are worth exploring when visiting Killybegs – from 2023, for the first time in almost two centuries, the lighthouses at St John’s Point and Rotten Island will be open to visitors!

A quick history

• At St. John’s Point stands a beautiful old lighthouse dating from 1831. Built of cut granite, standing 14m high and 30m above the high-water mark, it can be seen for 14 nautical miles. Marking the north side of Donegal Bay, this lighthouse has been a beacon of safety for sailors and fishermen for over 190 years.
• Rotten Island Lighthouse, dating from 1838, marks the passage from St. John’s Point to the inner channel and past the rocks to the anchorage within Killybegs Harbour. Built of cut granite, standing 14m high and 20m above the high-water mark, it can be seen for 15 nautical miles.

Did you know?

• Both lighthouses were designed by one of the most famous builders of that era, George Halpin, who, while having no formal engineering qualifications and having learned his trade in the building industry, designed and constructed over 50 lighthouses around the coast of Ireland over a period of 44 years. He died on the job in 1854 at the age of 75 while inspecting a lighthouse.