Credentials & Professional Memberships

• 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, ITGA – Independent Tour Guides of Ireland
• Fully accredited with Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide Badge and Regional Tour Guide
• Full Public Liability Insurance
• SPSV Licence Holder
• 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

Welcome! 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. Enjoy luxury transport for groups of 1 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.

A Knowledgeable Local Guide with Global Perspective

Extensive travel 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 place in the world.
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.

Testimonial:

My two days touring with Derek were highlights of my trip to Ireland. From the moment we met, Derek impressed me with his deep knowledge of local history, culture, and hidden gems around Galway and beyond. He’s not only incredibly informative but also wonderfully personable, courteous, engaging, and full of humour, which made every moment enjoyable.

What truly stood out was Derek’s flexibility and attention to detail. He went above and beyond to create a fully personalized itinerary, perfectly tailored to my interests and pace. Every stop felt meaningful, every story authentic, and the entire experience was completely hassle-free. Travelling with Derek meant seeing Galway and the surrounding areas in the most comfortable and rewarding way, with no crowds, no rush, just pure enjoyment and discovery.

I had two brilliant days out from Galway, with pickup and drop-off to my accommodation on day one, and on day two, an onward transfer to Dublin, all of which Derek was happy to build into my tour days.

Derek’s passion for what he does shines through in every conversation and every scenic stop along the way. His professionalism, warmth, and genuine care for his guests make him an exceptional guide and a true ambassador for Ireland.

I cannot recommend Derek highly enough. If you’re planning to visit Galway, Kylemoore Abbey, Village of Cong, Connamara National Park, The Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, consider booking with Derek. You’ll not only see breathtaking sights but also leave with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful part of the world, having had a custom-made experience with a lovely guy who truly provides top-tier tours.

Sara Rhyane