Boat Trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth

Discover Dublin’s Coastal Beauty with a Boat Trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth

If you’re looking for a different way to enjoy Dublin’s coastline, a boat trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth offers just that—a scenic, relaxing cruise with a few surprises along the way. This tour is perfect for anyone wanting to see Dublin’s waters from a fresh perspective, and it’s especially appealing if you’re into wildlife or simply love the idea of gliding past lighthouses and islands.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its affordable price point of around $32 per person and the easy mobile ticket booking. Plus, the one-hour, ten-minute journey is a manageable time investment that doesn’t require a full day out. That said, it’s worth noting that the return trip isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to make a full day of it.

One thing to keep in mind is the dependence on good weather—like most outdoor activities, poor conditions can lead to cancellations. While this may seem a downside, the company’s policy offers full refunds or rescheduling, which is reassuring. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic outing, especially those interested in wildlife or coastal scenery.

Key Points

• Scenic Water Views: Experience Dublin from a unique perspective, cruising past islands, lighthouses, and wildlife reserves.
• Wildlife & Landmarks: Spot seals in Howth Harbour, see Bull Island, Ireland Eye, Lambay Island, and more.
• Comfort & Convenience: WiFi and restrooms on board make the trip comfortable, with a straightforward online booking process.
• One-Way Experience: It’s a one-way trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth, but you can buy a return ticket or use DART rail for the return.
• Affordable Price: At just over $32, this provides a reasonable value for scenic views and wildlife spotting.
• Limited Return Trip: The cruise doesn’t include the return journey, so plan your transport back in advance.

What to Expect on the Boat Trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth

This boat trip offers a chance to see Dublin’s coastline from the water, a perspective you won’t get from land-based tours. Departing from the picturesque Dun Laoghaire Harbour, the boat sets sail around 12:30 pm, giving you a mid-day escape to the sea. The boat itself is equipped with WiFi and restrooms, so you can stay connected and comfortable during the journey.

The Itinerary

The roughly 70-minute voyage takes you past some of Dublin’s most intriguing sights. The boat heads north from Dun Laoghaire, offering views of Dalkey Island, a popular spot for picnics and birdwatching. As you cruise, you’ll pass Clontarf, a historic area with a lovely promenade.

One of the highlights is the chance to see the wildlife reserve at Bull Island—a haven for birdlife and nature lovers. If you’re lucky, you might spot seals swimming in Howth Harbour, which evidently delights many visitors (“lovely trip, friendly crew,” as one reviewer put it). The boat also passes the iconic Baily and Kish Lighthouses, standing tall against the sky.

Further along, you’ll see Ireland Eye, a small island known for its seabirds and scenic views. The route also skirts Lambay Island, a private island with a castle that’s off-limits to visitors but fascinating to see from afar. As you approach Howth, the harbour comes into view, bustling with seals and boats alike.

The Crew and Service

From reviews, it’s clear that the crew is friendly and welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. One traveler commented, “crew was lovely and very friendly,” indicating a warm atmosphere onboard. The commentary at key points adds informative moments about the sights, enhancing the scenic experience.

Amenities and Extras

Snacks and drinks are available from the onboard snack bar, giving you options to nibble while enjoying the views. The WiFi on board is a nice added touch, allowing you to share photos or check messages without disconnecting from the experience. Restrooms are also available, which is always a plus on boat tours.

The Return Journey and Planning Your Day

Since this is a one-way trip, you’ll need to consider how to get back. Tickets for the return sailing from Howth to Dun Laoghaire can be purchased on the boat, but many travelers opt to return via the DART rail service. The station at Howth is approximately a 7-minute walk from the pier, making it a convenient option.

This setup makes the trip flexible: you can choose to explore Howth after the cruise, enjoy the village’s charming shops and cafes, or head back to Dublin city center. Keep in mind that if weather turns poor, the tour could be canceled, but the provider’s policy ensures you’ll either reschedule or get a full refund.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Looking at the reviews, it’s clear that most travelers enjoy this experience, giving it an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5. People frequently mention the friendly crew and the beautiful scenery. Some even highlight how close-up sightings of seals and the views of the islands make it worthwhile.

In terms of value, at just over $32, the tour offers a good balance between cost and experience. It’s not a full-day adventure, so it fits well into a laid-back day of sightseeing or as a relaxing break from more busy attractions.

Who Should Consider This?

If you’re someone who loves coastal scenery and wildlife, this trip will suit you well. It’s also a good choice if you want a low-stress activity that doesn’t require a lot of planning or physical exertion. Families with children might find the trip enjoyable, especially since many of the sights—like seals—are visually engaging.

However, those looking for a more comprehensive sightseeing tour of Dublin’s history or urban highlights might want to supplement this with land-based activities. Also, if you’re traveling during bad weather or prefer a full round-trip experience, consider booking a return ticket or alternative transport in advance.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth is a simple yet rewarding way to see Dublin’s coastline from a different angle. It balances affordability with scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and a relaxed atmosphere onboard. While it’s a one-way experience, the options for returning by train or purchasing a ticket for the return trip make it flexible.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate tranquil waters, wildlife, and scenic vistas, and who are comfortable with the possibility of weather-related cancellations. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic cruise that lets you breathe in the sea air and see the coast from a new perspective, this tour could nicely fit into your Dublin itinerary.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour with commentary?
Yes, there is some commentary at key points, which helps you learn about the sights you’re passing.

How long is the boat trip?
The voyage lasts approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the one-way sailing from Dun Laoghaire to Howth, with WiFi and restroom facilities onboard. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

Can I buy a return ticket?
Yes, tickets for the return journey from Howth to Dun Laoghaire are available on the boat, or you can use the DART rail service.

Is the trip suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the trip’s scenic nature and wildlife sightings suggest it could be enjoyable for older children and families.

What should I bring?
Bring layers in case it’s windy or chilly out on the water. Water, snacks, and a camera are also good ideas.

Are there any restrictions?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. The tour depends on good weather, so check the forecast.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The trip can be canceled if the weather isn’t suitable. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How busy does the tour get?
It accommodates up to 96 travelers, so it’s generally a comfortable size for group outings.

Is parking available at the departure point?
There’s no parking facilities on-site, but public parking nearby makes it manageable.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic cruise that offers a glimpse of Dublin’s coast and wildlife, this boat trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth is a straightforward choice. It’s all about the views, the fresh air, and soaking in the tranquil beauty of Dublin’s waters—no fuss, just a lovely way to see the city from the sea.