Shore Excursion Giants Causeway Private Tour

Explore the Giants Causeway and Beyond with a Private Guide in Belfast

This private tour of the Giants Causeway offers an intimate and flexible way to experience some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights. Priced at $1,714.46 per group of up to 15 people, it lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours and includes a fully guided coach journey from the Sixt Cruise Port in Belfast. The tour stands out for its personalized attention, as only your group participates, and the several stops are carefully curated to maximize photo opportunities and storytelling.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the expert guide, who leads you through the history, legends, and scenic highlights of the region. From the UNESCO-listed Giants Causeway to the filming locations of Game of Thrones, every stop is designed to bring Ireland’s charm and history to life. Travelers appreciate the convenience of pickup from the cruise port and the comprehensive itinerary, though it’s worth noting that you do not cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, only view it from above.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 15 people providing a personalized experience
• All-day journey lasting around 8 to 9 hours with multiple stops
• Includes pickup at Belfast cruise port, no need to arrange transport
• Highlights include Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Game of Thrones filming sites, and whiskey tasting
• View Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge from above—no crossing included
• Admission fees for Dunluce Castle not included, but the castle is included in the tour

Convenient Pickup and Small Group Advantage

This tour departs directly from the Sixt Cruise Port in Belfast, with a meet & greet service designed for cruise ship passengers. The coach travel offers comfort for the entire day, and only your group participates, creating a relaxed, stress-free atmosphere. The small group size ensures flexibility, allowing the guide to tailor the experience and spend more time at each site.

The pickup timing is between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM, depending on your cruise schedule, giving you plenty of options to suit your arrival. This setup means you won’t need to worry about organizing transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads—your guide handles all logistics.

Exploring the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge from Above

The tour includes a stop at Carrick-a-Rede, where you can view the bridge from above and take stunning photos of the coastline. However, you do not cross the bridge as part of this experience. The vantage point provides excellent opportunities for capturing the rugged scenery, and the guide shares background stories about the bridge’s history and construction.

This approach allows visitors to enjoy the spectacular views without the physical effort or potential crowds of crossing the rope bridge itself. It’s a practical choice for those with moderate physical fitness or those preferring a more relaxed experience.

The Legend and Geology of the Giants Causeway

The highlight of the tour is the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. The guide explains the legend of Finn McCool, the Irish giant who supposedly built the causeway, adding a storytelling element to the visit. You’ll also receive geographical insights about how the formations came to be.

You typically spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes at this site, giving ample time for photographs, exploring the formations, and soaking in the dramatic coastal scenery. The admission is free, making this a valuable part of the tour.

Visiting Dunluce Castle and Its Legendary Stories

A 30-minute stop at Dunluce Castle offers a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past. The castle ruins sit dramatically on the coast, with panoramic views of the Giants Causeway coast. The guide shares stories of Sorleyboy McDonnell, a famous rebel, and suggests that the castle inspired some of C.S. Lewis’s stories.

While entrance to the castle costs £6 per person, it is not included in the tour price. The walk through the ruins is easy, and the scenery makes for excellent photo opportunities. Visitors can appreciate the castle’s storied history and its striking location on the cliff edge.

The Dark Hedges and Game of Thrones Filming Location

The Dark Hedges is a 15-minute stop where visitors can walk through the famous tree avenue, which dates back to 1722. It gained international fame when featured in Game of Thrones. The short visit allows for quick photos and a stroll along this atmospheric route.

As the stop is brief, it’s best suited for those wanting to experience the iconic trees without a long walk or crowd. It’s an excellent spot for capturing memorable images of Ireland’s lush greenery and twisted branches.

Whiskey Tasting at Bushmills Distillery

The tour includes a visit to Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world since 1608. Here, you can sample whiskey for an additional cost of £8 per person. Lunch is not included, so travelers often choose to buy snacks or bring a light meal to enjoy during this stop.

The distillery offers a history-rich environment where you can learn about Irish whiskey-making traditions. The tasting experience provides a hands-on connection to Ireland’s renowned spirit, though tasting is optional.

Additional Costs and Entrance Fees

While many stops are included in the tour at no extra charge, some expenses are not covered. The admission fee for Dunluce Castle is £6 per person, payable on-site. The visitor center at the Giants Causeway and the whiskey tasting are not included in the base price, so it’s good to budget accordingly.

The viewing of Carrick-a-Rede from above is free, and the tour includes coach travel, guiding, and stops at key locations—a comprehensive package for the price.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. There is a short walk of about 20 minutes to reach the Giants Causeway, which involves navigating uneven terrain and slopes. The stops at Dunluce Castle and Dark Hedges are relatively easy, with minimal walking involved.

The group size and coach comfort make it accessible for most guests, but those with mobility issues should consider the terrain at certain sites.

The Guide: An Entertaining and Knowledgeable Host

Many reviews highlight Joseph Patrick Mulligan, the guide, as a highlight of the tour. Known as “The Singing Irishman,” he combines informative storytelling, music, humor, and a warm personality that makes the long day engaging. His local knowledge and friendly manner are frequently praised, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

Having an experienced guide who can share legends, history, and personal anecdotes adds significant value, particularly for those interested in Ireland’s culture and stories behind the sites.

Who Should Book This Tour

This private Giants Causeway tour is ideal for groups seeking a personalized, relaxed experience. It’s suitable for cruise passengers wanting to maximize their day with minimal hassle, thanks to pickup and drop-off at the port. The small group size ensures flexibility and more interaction with the guide.

It is especially recommended for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, historical sites, filming locations, and Irish whiskey. The guide’s storytelling and music also make it a particularly lively and memorable outing.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Northern Ireland Experience

The Giants Causeway Private Tour delivers a comprehensive look at Northern Ireland’s scenic wonders and cultural highlights. Its personalized approach and expert guide make it a flexible option for cruise travelers, with a rich itinerary including mythical legends, historic ruins, and iconic filming sites.

While some expenses like entrance fees and whiskey tasting are additional, the main attractions are included in the price, offering strong value for a full day. The viewing of Carrick-a-Rede from above provides spectacular scenery without the physical challenge of crossing the bridge.

This tour suits those who appreciate storytelling, scenic vistas, and hassle-free logistics. It’s a great choice for small groups looking for an authentic and memorable exploration of Northern Ireland’s coast and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge?
No, you only view the bridge from above as part of this tour.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours.

Is pickup from the cruise port included?
Yes, pickup at the Sixt Cruise Port in Belfast is included.

Are entrance fees included?
The Dunluce Castle entrance fee of £6 is not included. The visitor center at the Giants Causeway and whiskey tasting are also additional costs.

Can children participate?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

How much time is spent at Giants Causeway?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes is allocated for exploring and photos.

Can I buy whiskey at Bushmills Distillery?
Yes, tasting is available for £8 per person, but not included in the tour price.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most stops are easy, but some walking over uneven terrain may be required. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What makes this tour special?
The personalized guide, variety of sites, and stunning views make it a memorable Northern Ireland escape, especially for those interested in history, legends, and scenery.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially for small groups who want a rich, relaxed day exploring the coast, castles, and filming locations with an expert guide.