Howth – Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye 1 hour Tour

If you’re thinking about adding a boat trip to your Dublin adventures, the Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye cruise offers a peaceful and scenic way to spend an hour on the water. While it’s not a lengthy tour, it’s a gentle getaway that showcases some of Ireland’s most beautiful coastal sights. We’ve looked into what travelers generally experience, so you can decide if it fits your trip plans.

What really stands out about this cruise is its spectacular views from the water—you’ll see the rugged cliffs of Howth, and on a clear day, the sight of Ireland’s Eye, Malahide, and Lambay Island makes for a memorable photo op. Plus, the chance to see local seals and seabirds adds a touch of wildlife magic. We also appreciate the onboard bar and WiFi, making it more comfortable and social than a typical ferry.

That said, there are some considerations—most notably, the limited proximity to Ireland’s Eye. Some reviews mention that the boat doesn’t get close enough for really detailed bird or seal spotting, which could be a letdown for wildlife enthusiasts. Also, it’s a short tour, so if you’re craving a deep dive into the area’s history or nature, this might not be the best fit.

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a good chance to snap photos and enjoy a drink, without worrying about lengthy tours or strenuous activities. It’s ideal for those who appreciate calm, picturesque moments and don’t mind the weather being a factor—dressing appropriately is advised, as the experience goes on rain or shine.

Key Points

• Duration & Price: About 1 hour for $26.71, offering a quick scenic escape.
• Views & Wildlife: Offers sweeping vistas of Howth’s cliffs and sightings of birds and seals around Ireland’s Eye.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes WiFi, restrooms, and a bar, making it a comfortable waterborne experience.
• Limitations: The boat doesn’t get very close to Ireland’s Eye or the seal colony, which might disappoint wildlife fans.
• Booking & Accessibility: Book on average 12 days in advance; service animals are allowed, and it’s near public transportation.
• Weather Dependency: The tour runs in different weather conditions; dress accordingly and be aware of possible cancellations.

The Experience: What It’s Really Like

When we think about short boat tours like this, the main appeal is the views and the relaxed pace—and this cruise delivers on that front. The boat departs from Howth Harbour, a charming fishing village with a bustling maritime feel, which sets a lovely tone for the journey. The St Bridget, the vessel used for the cruise, offers a cozy onboard environment with WiFi and a snack bar, so you can sip your coffee or wine while taking in the scenery.

The itinerary is straightforward—depart from West Pier, cruise past Howth’s impressive cliffs, and enjoy the sights of Ireland’s Eye, Malahide, and Lambay Island. You’ll also pass by the bird and seal colonies, which are quite a sight if the timing is right. However, some reviews point out that the boat doesn’t come very close to the islands, which can be a bit of a letdown. EstherBerther mentioned, “it was nice but the boat didn’t get close enough to see the birds or seals clearly,” which echoes the overall sentiment.

The views from the water are undoubtedly the highlight. The cliffs overlooking Howth are dramatic and photogenic, especially if you catch the light at the right time. On a clear day, the vistas stretch far north and south, giving you a sense of the rugged coastline and the expansive Irish Sea. The sightings of seabirds and seals add a bit of wildlife charm, though some might find them a bit distant for detailed viewing.

The onboard bar is a thoughtful touch—whether you prefer a warm coffee or a glass of wine, it’s nice to be able to sip something as you drift along. WiFi is also available, so if you’re someone who likes to share a quick story or check your photos, that’s convenient.

The Practical Side: Booking, Group Size, and Pricing

Booking in advance is generally recommended, with an average lead time of about 12 days. The small group size, with a maximum of 96 travelers, keeps the atmosphere intimate enough to enjoy everyone’s company without feeling crowded. The price of around $26.71 per person is quite reasonable considering the views and the experience it offers—a relaxing hour on the water with scenic photo opportunities.

It’s worth noting that parking isn’t directly available at the launch site, but plenty of public parking options nearby make it manageable. The tour starts at 2:15 pm, a good mid-afternoon slot that often gives decent lighting and weather conditions.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

As with many outdoor activities in Ireland, the weather can influence your experience. The tour operates in various conditions, but keep in mind that poor weather might lead to cancellations. The provider’s policy offers a full refund if you cancel 24 hours before the tour, so check the forecast and plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic water experience without a long commitment. If you enjoy gentle boat rides, stunning coastlines, and a splash of wildlife viewing, it ticks those boxes nicely. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate the comfort of onboard amenities like WiFi and drinks.

However, if you’re a wildlife enthusiast hoping to get up close to the seals or see the birds in detail, you might find the experience somewhat limited. Likewise, if you’re someone looking for a more in-depth tour of Ireland’s Eye or the cliffs, this brief cruise won’t satisfy that curiosity.

Final Thoughts

The Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye cruise offers a calm and picturesque hour along Ireland’s stunning coastline. While it’s not the most adventurous or wildlife-dense activity, it’s a charming way to enjoy the sea views and fresh air, especially if you’re short on time or simply want a leisurely break from sightseeing.

The price is fair for what you get—scenic views, some wildlife glimpses, and the comfort of onboard amenities. Just remember that the boat doesn’t get very close to the islands or the seals, so if those are your main goals, you might want to look for more specialized tours.

In the end, this experience best suits those who want a light, scenic cruise that complements their visit to Howth and Dublin, rather than a deep dive into local nature or history. It’s a gentle, photogenic outing that can add a peaceful moment to your busy travel schedule.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but scenic escape from the city.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the ferry ride, restroom access onboard, and WiFi. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

Is parking available at the departure point?
No, parking facilities aren’t on site, but there are public parking options nearby.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 2:15 pm and ends back at the starting point.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Bad weather might lead to a cancellation, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on board.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult. The tour is brief and relaxed, making it generally family-friendly.

This cruise provides a lovely, easy-going way to enjoy the Irish coast, especially if you’re craving a peaceful moment with beautiful views. It’s not perfect for those seeking close wildlife sightings, but for a quick, scenic shot of Ireland’s natural beauty—paired with a drink and good company—it does the job nicely.