Game of thrones Iron Islands Harbour ( Ballintoy) and Causeway Coast 55 mile return boat trip.

As the sun finally gave us some long awaited summer warmth we set off northward, the gentle hum of the boat's engine mingling with the morning songs of birds along the River Bann. The riverbanks were alive with the vibrant greens of summer, and the occasional heron could be seen wading in the shallows, searching for breakfast. Always on the look out for wading fishermen and keeping our wake low in the restricted speed areas we headed north. My twin boys and their friend Adam all finished exams and their final year of school behind them were happy, and enjoying the expanding real horizons as well as contemplating their own personal next steps as the summer beckoned.
As we approached the Barmouth, where the River Bann meets the vast Atlantic Ocean, the horizon opened up before us. The gentle swell of the sea greeted us, and we steered eastward along the rugged and beautiful Causeway Coast. The first town we passed was Portstewart, its charming promenade and golden beaches already beginning to draw the early risers and eager surfers.
Continuing our journey, we soon saw the lively town of Portrush. Known for its excellent surf spots, The Harbour bar and the famous Royal Portrush Golf Club, the town was bustling even in the early morning. The sight of the pristine beaches and the sound of waves crashing on the shore was invigorating.
A short while later, after a quick zip over to the Skerrie islands to see the seals and bird life the ruins of Dunluce Castle came into view. Perched dramatically on a cliff edge, the castle seemed to be a guardian of the coastline, its weathered stones whispering tales of medieval battles and legends. The sight was awe-inspiring, and we slowed our pace to take in the grandeur of this historic monument and peer into the "smugglers cave" beneath the clifftops from as close as we dared to get in the swell of the sea.
As we navigated further along the coast, we reached the quaint village of Portballintrae and then we approached the bay at the Giant's Causeway. The unique hexagonal basalt columns, formed by ancient volcanic activity, stood as a testament to nature's incredible artistry. We marvelled at the natural wonder, imagining the mythological giants that were said to have created it and watched the 100's of tourists explore the famous rocks and headland scenery.
Our course then took us to the historic harbor at Ballintoy. This charming and rugged harbor, with its tiny pier and colorful boats, was used as a filming location for the Iron Islands in the popular series Game of Thrones. Stepping onto the pier felt like stepping into another world, where the echoes of the show's dramatic scenes seemed to linger in the salty sea air.
After lunch as we continued, we passed the iconic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Spanning a deep and wide chasm, the bridge swayed gently in the breeze, inviting the daring to cross its narrow path.
Our journey's farthest point was Kinbane Castle. Situated on a narrow limestone headland, the castle ruins offered breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and cliffs. The castle, though weathered by time, stood as a silent sentinel over the dramatic coastline, its presence a poignant reminder of the region's storied past, as its vista looks across the sound towards Rathlin Island..
Turning back, we made our way towards Portrush once more, stopping at the bustling harbor. The town, now fully awake, was alive with activity. In left the teenager on board took the opportunity to grab some local sausage rolls for the boys and a welcome coffee.
As the afternoon advanced, we set off on the final leg of our journey, heading west again to the Barmouth and then south back towards Coleraine. The midsummers sun cast a warm glow over the waters, and we reflected on the sights and experiences of the day.
Finally, we arrived at Seaton's Marina on the River Bann, where our adventure began.