Howth Coastal Boat Tour (Ireland’s Eye Ferries 50 mins trip)

If you’re looking to get a fresh perspective on Dublin’s scenic coastline, the Howth Coastal Boat Tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to experience Ireland’s natural beauty. This roughly hour-long boat trip is perfect for anyone craving a blend of wildlife spotting, breathtaking views, and a bit of local storytelling—all without breaking the bank. We’ve heard great things from travelers who found it both charming and surprisingly enriching.

Two things we really like about this tour are its small-group vibe, which means more personalized attention and better chances to really take in the scenery, and the opportunity to see diverse wildlife—from puffins to seals—that makes the experience feel alive and vibrant. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a short trip, focusing mainly around Ireland’s Eye, so if you’re after a long, comprehensive tour, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a laid-back adventure near Dublin that’s easy to fit into a day. If you’re traveling with kids or just want a hassle-free way to enjoy the coast, it’s also a good pick. Just be prepared for some boat motion if you’re sensitive to that—most say it’s manageable, but it’s worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Max 11 travelers, offering a more personal and relaxed vibe.
• Wildlife galore: Chance to see puffins, gannets, seals, and other seabirds up close.
• Stunning scenery: Close-up views of Howth Cliffs, Ireland’s Eye, and Dublin Bay.
• Informative guides: Captains share stories about the area’s history and natural habitat.
• Affordable price: Around $17.77 per person for approximately an hour—great value for the scenery and wildlife.
• Easy access: Reach Howth easily from Dublin via train or bus, about 40 minutes.

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

Starting Point: Howth Pier

The tour kicks off easily enough—just meet your crew at Ireland’s Eye Ferries on the pier in Howth. The group tends to be small, with a maximum of 11 people, which makes the entire experience feel relaxed and personal. We’ve seen reviews praising the friendly welcome and simple check-in process, making it a hassle-free start.

The Cruise Around Ireland’s Eye

This is where the magic begins. Your captain guides you along the coast, navigating the waterline of Howth Cliffs and Ireland’s Eye. The boat is small and nimble, perfect for getting close to wildlife and scenic spots. Expect stunning views of rugged cliffs and the chance to snap some photos of the landscape from the water.

The highlight here is the wildlife. Travelers have reported seeing seals lounging in the harbor and around the island, along with a variety of seabirds like puffins, guillemots, cormorants, and gulls. One reviewer even mentioned a close encounter with puffins just before they left for the season, which makes the trip feel like a lucky find.

Live Commentary and Irish Music

Throughout the trip, the captain shares stories about the area’s history and natural features. The commentary is friendly and informative—nothing too heavy, just enough to add context to what you’re seeing. The background music, featuring traditional Irish tunes, adds to the relaxed, local atmosphere that makes this trip special.

Wildlife Spotting and Photo Ops

The boat’s proximity to Ireland’s Eye allows for fantastic wildlife photos. Reviewers often mention how close they could get to seabirds and seals, making it an excellent chance for wildlife photography. The trip length feels just right—long enough to soak in the scenery without it dragging on, even for those with a shorter attention span or with kids in tow.

Returning to Howth

At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the pier, with many travelers commenting on how satisfying and scenic the entire experience was. It’s a quick hop back to Dublin afterward, just about 40 minutes via train or bus, making it easy to slot into a day of exploring.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

The reviews are nearly unanimous in praise—a perfect, manageable trip for most travelers, whether you’re a wildlife geek or just seeking a peaceful view of Ireland’s coast. One quote sums it up well: “Harry, our captain, was kind and funny. He was also very informative and answered our questions. I highly recommend this tour. Great way to see the coastal Howth.”

Others appreciate the value for money—at just around $17.77, it’s an affordable way to see a lot in a short time. The views of the cliffs and Ireland’s Eye are described as “beautiful” and “spectacular,” with many comments about how close the wildlife feels. For those concerned about motion, some mention the boat bobbing around a bit, but most say it’s manageable.

The guide’s local knowledge is frequently highlighted as a strength—people love learning tidbits about Irish birds, the history of Howth, and the island’s seabird colonies. One review pointed out that “the skipper was great and had lots of knowledge,” making the experience feel both fun and educational.

Wildlife and Nature Highlights

Seals are often spotted lounging in the harbor or on rocks around Ireland’s Eye. Birdwatchers are in luck, as the boat gets you into the middle of seabird colonies, giving you a good chance to see puffins, gannets, and other seabirds. Several reviews mention how the trip felt like a wildlife safari in miniature, which adds a layer of excitement.

Scenic Views and Photography

The cliffs and island scenery are a big draw. Travelers love how close they can get to the rugged coastline, capturing stunning photos of steep cliffs and the surrounding sea. One reviewer noted that although the tour mostly circles Ireland’s Eye rather than getting views from the base of the cliffs, it’s still worth it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who want a relaxed, wildlife-focused trip without lengthy commitments or complicated logistics. It’s perfect for travelers staying in Dublin who want a quick escape into nature without a full-day commitment. Families with children will find it manageable—most reviews highlight how the trip is just the right length for young kids.

If you’re a bird lover or enjoy scenic boat rides, you’ll love the opportunity to see Ireland’s coast from a different angle. It’s also an excellent choice if you’re after a cost-effective adventure—the price is very reasonable considering the wildlife and scenery you’ll experience.

However, if you’re seeking a more comprehensive or extended tour, this might feel a bit limited, as it mainly focuses around Ireland’s Eye. Plus, if you’re sensitive to boat motion, it’s worth noting that the boat bobbed around a bit for some travelers, though most found it manageable.

Practical Information You Need to Know

• Duration: About 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.
• Price: $17.77 per person; excellent value for the wildlife and views.
• Group size: Small-group experience with a maximum of 11 travelers.
• Accessibility: The meeting point is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed.
• Weather dependency: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Howth for the tour?
You can reach Howth easily from Dublin by train or bus, about 40 minutes from the city center. The meeting point is at Ireland’s Eye Ferries on the pier in Howth, with clear directions provided.

What is included in the ticket price?
All fees and taxes are included in the ticket price, which is around $17.77 per person. There are no extra charges for wildlife viewing or the guide.

Can I buy snacks or drinks during the trip?
Snacks are not included, and there’s no mention of available refreshments onboard. It’s a good idea to bring some water or snacks if needed, especially if you’re prone to seasickness.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the reviews suggest it’s manageable for children, particularly because of its short duration and gentle nature. Just be mindful of boat motion if your kids are sensitive.

What wildlife might I see?
Seals are frequently spotted in the harbor and around Ireland’s Eye. Birdwatchers can expect seabirds such as puffins, gannets, guillemots, cormorants, and gulls.

What will the guide tell us?
Your captain shares stories about the area’s history and the natural habitat, enriching the experience with local knowledge. The background Irish music adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered protection in the form of a different date or a full refund.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts approximately 40 minutes, with the entire experience around an hour including boarding and disembarking.

Can I see the cliffs from the boat?
Most of the trip circles Ireland’s Eye, so while you won’t get views from the base of the cliffs, the water-level perspective offers stunning scenery and a chance to see wildlife up close.

The Howth Coastal Boat Tour is a straightforward, affordable way to step outside Dublin and experience Ireland’s rugged coastline and abundant seabirds. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate wildlife, scenic views, and local stories in a low-key setting. The small-group format and friendly guides make it feel personal and relaxed, making it suitable for most ages and interests.

If you’re craving a quick nature break with a touch of adventure, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments. Just keep an eye on the weather and be prepared for some boat movement—most find it manageable, and the wildlife sightings alone make it worth the ride.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this trip provides a lovely, easy-going escape that complements your Dublin stay with a taste of Ireland’s wild coast. It’s not a long or elaborate tour, but it’s genuine, scenic, and packed with the kind of moments that make travel special.