If you’re looking for a boutique wedding venue, then pay Clare Island a visit. We have been host to a number of small wedding celebrations and we’re beginning to be recognised as a wedding destination that will stand out in guests’ memories.
Island weddings are not for every couple, but they are an exciting option for those planning an intimate wedding.
“Unique”, “stunning location”, “culturally and historically rich” are words that best describe the destination. And those who choose to exchange vows here tend to be quirky couples who look to operate outside the mainstream. If that sounds like a match to you, our boutique wedding venue might be just what you’re looking for.
You can accommodate your guests in some of the most unique guesthouses in Ireland, such as O’ Gradys Guesthouse located right on the beach, or the Lighthouse perched on a dramatic cliff face overlooking the open Atlantic and Achill Island. Clare Island B&Bs are run by locals who will impart hospitality and local knowledge to your guests, giving them a real sense of this beautiful island.
Our chef is building a name on Clare Island and the reputation of Sailor’s Bar as a destination for wholesome traditional cuisine with a bit of a difference. He sources as much local produce as possible, such as Clare Island salmon, homegrown vegetables and Ballinrobe beef. Just check out our Tripadvisor comments by searching for Go Explore Hostel and Sailor’s Bar, Clare Island.
The O’ Grady family also operates the Clare Island Ferry Company so we can organise special boats for your wedding. Carrying up to 100 passengers at a time, we will bring your guests safely to and from the island with speed.
Our maximum capacity is 80 people for traditional three-course sit down setting. However we can accommodate up to 150 for a buffet style menu.
Friday – Wedding Celebration Day
Saturday – Post Wedding Celebration
Clare Island is the setting of one of Ireland’s most prestigious boutique guesthouses, the Clare Island Lighthouse. We recommend that the wedding couple stay at the lighthouse. Rates for the lighthouse vary depending on room choice. Please visit the following web-site for more information. www.clareislandlighthouse.com/en/
If the Clare Island Lighthouse is unsuitable for your needs, we recommend O’Grady’s Guesthouse as the location for the marriage couple. O’Grady’s Guesthouse is a 4 star property located on the beach beside the harbour. It is only five minutes’ walk from Sailor’s Bar.
The Clare Island church is located 2 km from Sailor’s Bar & Restaurant. There are a number of mini buses on the island that can be hired to transport people to and from the church. On special request to the ferry operator, a small number of guests can bring in their own vehicles for the weekend to help with transportation. The church is coordinated by the Westport Parish. Visit the following link for information and contact details for the priest. You will need to speak directly with the priest in charge (currently Fr. Karl Byrne) to make arrangements and bookings. www.westportparish.ie/
Independent Celebrant: non-faith and multi-faith ceremonies
Tricia Hudson – Marry Me Ireland
(wildatlanticceremonies@gmail.com / 003535 87 7994513)
Go Explore Hostel, Clare Island, Westport, Co. Mayo, Ireland
T: +353 98 26307
GPS: 53.80156; -9.95301