BBC TravelJul 27, 2026An up-close encounter with giant sharks in IrelandBasking sharks are one of the world's largest and most elusive fish species. But off the Irish coast, these gentle giants swim so close to the shore you can nearly touch them.8 things in this storyBlacksod Sea SafariPlaceoffers tour boats along the Mullet PeninsulaElsewhereKeem BeachSightAchill Island, Irelandbasking sharks seen cruising offshore beneath sweeping cliffsMullet PeninsulaSightBelmullet, Irelandtour boats travel along its coastSliabh Liag Boat TripsPlaceCarrick, Irelandoffers basking shark excursions around Donegal's Sliabh Liag CliffsSliabh Liag CliffsSightCarrick, Irelandboat trips offer excursions around themAchill Seascape Boat ToursPlaceAchill Island, IrelandExperience Achill Island's wild beauty on a 5-star Google-rated Sea Safari with Achill Seascape.Blasket Island Eco Marine ToursPlaceCeann Trá, IrelandEco tours,marine tours,wildlife tours, boat tours, Dingle Bay, Co.Dingle Dolphin Boat ToursPlaceDingle, IrelandDingle's longest-running boat tour company.Read the full piece at BBC Travel →