Private Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Boat Trip

A short distance along the coast lies Kinbane Castle, dramatically perched on a narrow limestone headland jutting into the Atlantic. Built in 1547 by Colla McDonnell, brother of Sorley Boy MacDonnell, this two-storey ruin tells a powerful story of the region’s turbulent past.
From the water, the castle’s setting is even more striking — a perspective few visitors ever get to see.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – From Below
We then cruise towards the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, where the experience truly becomes special. While hundreds of visitors queue above on land, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views from the water below.
From this angle, you can admire:
The rope bridge suspended high above
The fisherman’s bothy on the island
Sea caves carved into the cliffs
Large seabird colonies filling the air with sound and movement
It’s a peaceful, immersive way to experience one of Ireland’s most photographed landmarks.
A Place Steeped in Tradition
The name Carrick-a-Rede comes from the Scottish Gaelic “Carraig-a-Rade”, meaning “the rock in the road.” For generations, the island acted as a natural barrier to migrating salmon, making it a prime fishing location.
The first rope bridge was built in 1755 after more than a century of salmon fishing between Carrick-a-Rede and Larrybane. Although commercial fishing here has faded, the bridge and fisherman’s cottage remain as lasting reminders of this unique heritage.