About JJ Kavanagh

Providing extra-ordinary journeys across Ireland for over a 100 years

Established over 100 years ago, JJ Kavanagh is one of Ireland’s largest privately held bus and coach companies. With more than 100 coaches on the road daily we know a thing or two about keeping our customers satisfied!

We're the Coach Hire Experts

With JJ Kavanagh, you can relax and enjoy the journey ahead, knowing that our professional drivers and customer service support team will take care of the details.

JJ Kavanagh is renowned as Ireland’s top choice for both tour operators and individuals seeking private bus and coach hire. Our commitment to delivering reliable and professional transport solutions allows us to meet a broad spectrum of travel needs. With over a century of experience, we have a deep understanding of the unique requirements of our diverse customers.

Our professional drivers alongside with our dedicated customer service team and Ireland’s most well-equipped coach fleet, ensures the safest and most comfortable journeys for all passengers. We are dedicated to enhancing the sustainability of our fleet and operations, and we take pride in our ISO certifications in quality, health and safety, and environmental management.

Read about our 104 year old history!

Excellent service.

Excellent service. Always on time or (early) bus driver’s always courteous and help with suitcase. I wouldn’t go with anyone else. Even when I email a query online, always answered. Thank you for all your great service.

Maureen O’Sullivan

Over 100 Years of Experience

JJ Kavanagh is 100% Irish-owned and has grown from one of the first private providers of public transport to the largest privately owned coach company in Ireland today.

In 1919, founders James and Mollie Kavanagh began operating a bus service between Urlingford and Kilkenny, with daily runs and special Sunday excursions. Their sons, Matthew and James, joined the business in the 1940s, expanding the fleet and routes across South East Ireland. The company also ran a successful wholesale newspaper distribution business serving over 1,500 customers in the region.

From 1986, Matthew’s sons JJ and Paul took over as Joint Directors and General Managers. Under their leadership, the company expanded rapidly, becoming Ireland’s largest private coach operator.