Guide #52413
Welcome! I can't to share with you what is special and unique about my country! If you’re looking for a private tour guide in Ireland who combines deep local roots, academic expertise, and over a decade of professional experience, you’re in the right place. I am a Fáilte Ireland–approved National Tour Guide with a BA (Hons.) in History and Heritage Studies, guiding visitors throughout Ireland since 2012. Born and raised in Galway—with family roots tracing back to 1776 and strong connections to the Aran Islands—I offer an authentic, insider’s perspective on Ireland’s history, culture, and landscapes. Bespoke Private Tours of Ireland (1–8 Guests) I specialise in private, tailor-made tours of Ireland, designed around your interests and travel style. You can enjoy luxury transport for groups of 1 to 3 or 3 to 8 guests, with personalised itineraries that bring Ireland’s heritage and scenery to life. Tour options include: • Private day tours from Galway or Dublin • Multi-day Ireland tours starting in Dublin • Luxury shore excursions from Galway Port • Custom itineraries featuring the Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and beyond Every tour is carefully curated to offer a rich blend of history, storytelling, scenic beauty, and local insight. My extensive travels around the world has shown me how transformative a truly great guide can be. My goal is to deliver more than just sightseeing—I provide immersive, engaging experiences that connect you to Ireland’s people, past, and present. As a fully accredited Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide, I operate to the highest professional standards, holding full insurance and all required driving licences. My commitment to safety, professionalism, and guest satisfaction is consistently reflected in five-star reviews. If you’re seeking a luxury private Ireland tour led by a qualified, experienced, and passionate local guide, I would be delighted to welcome you and help you discover what makes Ireland so special. Below is a selection of the Private Day Tours from Galway that I offer. The Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park Connemara, Kylemore Abbey and Sheep Farm Tour A Taste of Ireland Food Tour: A taste of Connemara Walking in the Connemara National Park Galway City Half Day Tour & Saint Nicholas Colligate Church Tour Mystical Ireland: Connemara, Wesport & Achill Island My Credentials Fáilte Ireland–Approved National Tour Guide • BA (Hons.) in History and Heritage Studies • Guiding professionally across Ireland since 2012 • Former Chairperson, Galway Tour Guides Association • Member, ATGI – Association of Tour Guides of Ireland • Fully accredited with Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide Badge and a Regional Tour Guide Badge • Full Public Liability Insurance • SPSV Licence Holder ▪︎ Luxury and comfortable vehicles • D1 Driver’s Licence Holder • Proven reputation as a safe, professional, and highly rated driver-guide Private Luxury Tours of Ireland with a Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide
Galway
Dublin

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67 reviews
Derek gave us an excellent tour of the history and geography of western Ireland. He was flexible and very knowledgeable. We all learned a ton and appreciated the tour very much.

Replied from Derek S.
Thank you Joel, for the booking and the review. I'm delighted you enjoyed the tour and discovered a little about this island and the Burren region. It was a pleasure meeting you all.
Derek is a wonderful guide who shows you so much information in one day, but you don't feel overwhelmed. We had many stops throughout the tour and Derek was great at telling us all about the region and showed us a lot of the history of it as well. And of course, the Cliffs of Moher are pretty astonishing to see in person! If you're looking for a great day trip that...

Replied from Derek S.
Thank you Becky for the review. I'm delighted you found the tour informative and relaxing. It is great to receive such positive feedback. Thank you, it was a pleasure meeting you both and showing you around Co. Clare.
My sister and I hired Derek hoping to see not just the tourist sites but also some off the beaten path sites. He did not disappoint. We saw so much in 6 days! Derek was friendly, professional, informative and we enjoyed his company. HIs knowledge of history, ancient through recent, mythology, topography and geology were impressive. From seeing the beautiful countryside,...

Replied from Derek S.
Thank you Elaine and Mary Ellen for the review. It was a pleasure to spend time with you both. From my past studies, I try to give a layered perspective of our Islands history, geography and culture, old and new. There is a lot to unwrap as you witnessed! I'm delighted you appreciated it and enjoyed your time together. Thank you, and safe travels.
Great tour, Derek was very helpful & accommodating to us, highly recommend.

Replied from Derek S.
Thank you Carol and Steve for the review, it was a pleasure to meet you both.