South Bay is an eastern inlet at the head of Galway Bay, in County Galway, on the west coast of Ireland.

At 2.5 miles within its entrance South Bay is divided by Island Eddy, the southern fork through the Doorus Strait leads to Kinvarra Bay (see separate entry), and the northern fork through the Mweenish Strait leads to Rincarna Bay and continues through Tyrone Bay and eventually to the Kilcolgan River which becomes very shallow towards its head.

South Bay is entered between Deer Island which is reported to be difficult to identify against the land, and Kilcolgan Point. The straightforward approach through Mweenish Strait leads to Rincarna Bay where there is a good anchorage in Ship Pool in 3 metres depth that affords safe shelter and which is situated northeast of Mweenish Point and west of Tyrone Pool, and where in the right conditions a dinghy landing may be possible at the quay at Carrowmore village, although it is reported that there are no facilities at this location.

Alternatively if proceeding further inland, an anchorage can be had in Tyrone Pool in about 1.5 metres depth to the west of Yellow Slate Rock and opposite Bird Island. Care should be taken to avoid the shellfish beds located in the area of Tyrone Pool.

Continuing approximately 1.25 miles, a further anchorage may be had mid-stream in 0.5 metres depth off the small village of Weir, 150 metres short of the quay wall on the north bank at the entrance to the Kilcolgan River which shallows rapidly abreast of the quay.

Keyfacts for South Bay & Rincarna Bay

Position and approaches

Haven position

53° 12.398' N, 008° 57.928' W

this is the position at the anchorage at Ship Pool.

What is the initial fix?

this is the position in the middle of Galway Bay between Black Head and Spiddle.

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How to get in?

inyourfootsteps.com has identified this as a boat haven and asks readers with first-hand experience to contact us so we may fully write up this location. In the meantime we have posted our preliminary research notes alongside the haven position, tidal data, current wind and weather, satellite images plus charting information.

If, on the other hand, you have been to this haven and experienced it, please contact us by clicking the “Correct” button below. If you could provide us with your details so we may contact you, or indeed send us information directly, it would be very much appreciated. This will enable us to complete this Haven, sharing it for the common good of the entire sailing community.

Why visit here?

Rincarna Bay and Tyrone Bay are ideal spots to drop anchor for a night stop before heading into Galway City harbour. The remote and quiet locations of these anchorages make them totally different to the hustle and bustle of busy Galway.

There are no facilities in the area with the exception of the world renowned sea-food restaurant Moran's Oyster Cottage. Situated at the far end of the quay at Weir, this traditional thatched cottage that dates back over 250 years is run by the 7th generation of the Moran family and has attracted Presidents, Prime Ministers, TV and Film stars including Pierce Brosnan. It specialises in serving oysters harvested from the local oyster beds and wild smoked salmon.

What facilities are available?

There are no facilities available at this location.

With thanks to:

inyourfootsteps.com site research.