The Clare Echo is proud to be media partner of The Clare Business Excellence Awards. In the lead-up to the Gala Awards ceremony on Thursday, November 19, 2026 at the Rine Hotel, The Clare Echo is doing a Business Spotlight series sponsored by AMQ Accountants and Auditors. This week, we speak to Liam O’Brien of Doolin Ferry.
When you were smaller, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a sea captain and work on the Doolin ferry.
Tell us about your career progression today?
I started working in my father’s company at an extremely young age! I then trained as a captain and progressed to management of the business and then eventually owner with my wife Erin.
What’s the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?
I love the sea. And I really like meeting people from all over the world every day.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by improvement. I strive to improve our service offering every year. I want to get to a point where I provide the best ferry service in the world.
What advice do you have for your 15-year-old self?
Don’t try and do everything yourself thinking you are saving a wage. It will only end up costing you more in the long run.
If you weren’t in this job, what do you think you’d be doing now?
I don’t know… I like anything mechanical but I also like transport and hospitality.
What’s your greatest life or career achievement to date?
Organising the building of our own new vessels from scratch in Turkey.
Who or what is the biggest influence on your life?
Maersk (a Danish shipping company).
What’s the life dream now?
That my family remain healthy and get to live a happy and long life.
How do you switch off?
I struggle to switch off and probably never do. I am constantly thinking of what my next move is, and then also will my wife allow me to do it!
When are you at your happiest?
Spending time with my wife and 4 kids and also – watching people getting on and off the boats on a sunny calm day in Doolin.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Absolutely none!
Is there anything else that you’d like to share?
I have got seasick on 2 occasions!
Fact File
| Name and position | Liam O’Brien, owner, Doolin Ferry |
| Age | 44 |
| Lives | Kilfenora |
| Family | Four children |
| Favourite holiday ever | Disney with the kids |
| Favourite album | Renegade or Live and Dangerous by Thin Lizzy |
| Favourite thing about Clare
Favourite TV series |
The coast / Atlantic
The Sopranos |
