The advantage of this anchorage in Derrynane is that it offers a north and a south anchorage area which allows shelter from any wind and from the west swell which is widely present on this coast of Ireland.
A very protected northern anchorage
The entrance to the northern area presents many pitfalls, but is well marked. Mooring buoys are available and a small dock in the middle of the beach makes it easy to go ashore with a dinghy.
A more accessible southern anchorage
The southern anchorage is much easier to access, but less protected from the west and southwest swell. On this side, no buoy, we drop the anchor on a sandy bottom of excellent quality, in clear water.
Very lively beaches in summer
The beaches are splendid and a parking lot nearby, with garbage cans and selective sorting, makes their access easy by land. As a result, they are quite busy in the summer, all things considered, we are in Ireland.
There is also the possibility to rent kayaks and other light boats. A café, open only during the summer, is located between the south and north beaches. Music, food and drink are served in a warm atmosphere.
A site under the spell of history
Once ashore, the ruins of Derrynane Abbey present a nice walk with beautiful views of the anchorage. The religious site, dating from the sixth century, is located on Abbey Island. This island is only accessible on foot from the shore at low tide.
A little further on, Derrynane House is the former home, transformed into a museum, of the famous lawyer Daniel O'Connell who, in the nineteenth century, campaigned peacefully for Irish independence.
From Derrynane
When leaving Derrynane to go south, we will pay attention to the corridor between Lamb's Head and Two Headed Island which is rather narrow and presents eddies, as well as the passage between the latter and Moylaun Island. When we go north, we won't miss a tour near the Skellig Islands which are worth a visit!
