Dublin: Howth Coastal Boat Tour With Irelands Eye Ferries

Experience the stunning Irish coastline with Ireland’s Eye Ferries’ Howth Coastal Boat Tour. This one-hour journey along Howth’s breathtaking cliffs and shores promises an unforgettable adventure. Spot diverse wildlife like puffins and seals as an expert skipper shares captivating tales of the Celts, Vikings, and Normans who once roamed these very waters. After your tour, indulge in delectable seafood at nearby restaurants, making for a truly memorable day in the charming seaside town of Howth. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique way to explore Dublin’s picturesque surroundings, this tour offers an experience you won’t soon forget.

Key Points

Explore the picturesque Dublin coastline on a 1-hour boat tour with Ireland’s Eye Ferries, starting from €25 per person.
Spot diverse marine wildlife like puffins, seals, gannets, and guillemots while learning about the region’s Celtic, Viking, and Norman history.
Enjoy stunning views of the Howth cliffs and the UNESCO Dublin Bay Biosphere during the tour.
Experience a personalized, small-group tour with an engaging expert skipper providing live commentary and Irish music.
Discover nearby seafood restaurants along the pier for dining after the tour.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview and Details

The Howth Coastal Boat Tour with Ireland’s Eye Ferries offers visitors a captivating 1-hour journey along the scenic Dublin coastline, showcasing the region’s rich natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Priced from €25 per person and likely to sell out, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and photography buffs.

Explore the UNESCO-designated Dublin Bay Biosphere and Ireland’s Eye nature reserve, where you’ll have the chance to spot puffins, seals, gannets, and guillemots.

The live commentary from the expert skipper will regale you with stories about Celts, Vikings, and Normans, while the friendly crew ensures an enjoyable onboard experience.

After the tour, you can indulge in seafood at the nearby restaurants along the pier.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can observe an array of diverse wildlife, including puffins, seals, gannets, and guillemots, during this captivating boat tour.

The tour explores the UNESCO-designated Dublin Bay Biosphere and Ireland’s Eye nature reserve, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the Celts, Vikings, and Normans who once inhabited these shores.

Guests will be able to capture stunning photographs of the large seal colony and the iconic Howth cliffs, while the skipper and local Irish music provide engaging live commentary.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an immersive coastal experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Dublin’s rich maritime heritage and stunning natural beauty.

Tour Features

Small and intimate group tours offer a more personalized experience, allowing visitors to get up close to the marine life and natural features like ‘the Stack,’ home to various seabirds.

The onboard experience features a friendly, expert skipper who provides engaging commentary, and guests can further enjoy the coastal atmosphere by exploring the nearby seafood restaurants along the pier after the tour.

With the opportunity to witness puffins, seals, gannets, and guillemots in their natural habitat, this tour is a unique way to explore the UNESCO designated Dublin Bay Biosphere and Ireland’s Eye nature reserve.

The small group size ensures an immersive and unforgettable encounter with the stunning Howth coastline.

Meeting Point and Directions

Locate Ireland’s Eye Ferries boats at the West Pier, a short distance from the train station.

From there, one simply turns left, takes a left down to the West Pier, continues past trawlers and restaurants, and finds the ferry boats near Aqua Restaurant.

This convenient location makes the tour easy to find and access, allowing visitors to arrive with plenty of time to spare before their scheduled departure.

The area is bustling with activity, from the working trawlers to the charming seafood restaurants, creating an authentic Irish atmosphere.

With clear directions and a prime waterfront setting, travelers can look forward to a smooth start to their Howth Coastal Boat Tour experience.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The Howth Coastal Boat Tour boasts an impressive 4.7/5 overall rating based on 368 reviews. Customers particularly praise the quality of the guide and the overall tour experience, though some provided feedback on the seating comfort on the boat.

Reviewers are delighted by the opportunity to observe an array of captivating wildlife, including puffins, seals, gannets, and guillemots, while exploring the UNESCO designated Dublin Bay Biosphere and Ireland’s Eye nature reserve.

The live commentary from the skipper and the chance to enjoy traditional Irish music further enhance the immersive experience.

Whether you’re seeking an intimate group tour or the chance to capture stunning photographs, this boat tour offers an unforgettable adventure along the Howth coastline.

Observing Wildlife and Nature

One of the main highlights of the Howth Coastal Boat Tour is the opportunity to observe a diverse array of captivating wildlife and natural wonders along the UNESCO-designated Dublin Bay Biosphere and Ireland’s Eye nature reserve.

As the boat gently glides through the waters, passengers are treated to up-close encounters with magnificent puffins, graceful gannets, and playful seals that bask on the rocks.

The towering Howth cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, while the renowned ‘Stack’ is home to a vibrant colony of seabirds.

With the expert commentary from the skipper, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the ecological significance of this stunning coastal region and its diverse inhabitants.

Hearing Celts, Vikings, and Normans

As passengers gaze upon the stunning natural landscape, the skipper captivates them with spellbinding tales of the Celts, Vikings, and Normans who’ve left their mark on Howth’s rich history.

Listeners are transported back in time, envisioning the fierce battles, conquests, and cultural exchanges that have shaped this vibrant coastal region over the centuries.

The skipper’s vivid narration brings to life the arrival of the Celts, who established a stronghold in Howth, followed by the Vikings’ raids and eventual settlement.

The Normans’ conquest is recounted, showcasing how they integrated with the local population and left an indelible influence on the region’s architecture, language, and traditions.

Passengers are enthralled, their appreciation for Howth’s history deepening with each captivating story.

Enjoying Seafood Along the Pier

After disembarking from the boat tour, visitors can indulge in the vibrant seafood scene along Howth’s picturesque pier. Countless charming restaurants and cozy pubs line the harbor, beckoning travelers to savor the fresh catch of the day and soak in the lively maritime atmosphere. Whether it’s a hearty bowl of creamy seafood chowder, a platter of succulent oysters, or a crisp fish and chips dish, the culinary options promise to delight the senses and cap off an unforgettable Howth coastal experience.

Restaurant	Specialty	Price Range
The Brass Fox	Lobster Rolls	€€€
Aqua	Oysters Rockefeller	€€€
Findlater’s	Fish and Chips	€€
The Harbour Bar	Seafood Chowder	€€
Bloody Stream	Grilled Turbot	€€€

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour features small, intimate group sizes, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the stunning coastal scenery and wildlife. The cozy boat setting creates a more immersive and personalized experience for each guest.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Guests of all ages can enjoy the exciting coastal boat ride and get up close with the diverse marine life and stunning natural scenery of the region.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions to maintain a clean and enjoyable experience for all.

Is There a Toilet on the Boat?

Yes, the boat has a toilet on board for passengers’ convenience. This allows you to comfortably enjoy the scenic coastal tour without worrying about finding facilities along the way. The boat’s amenities enhance the overall enjoyment of the experience.

Do the Tour Operators Offer Any Discounts or Promotions?

The tour operators often offer discounts and promotions to make the experience more accessible. Customers can check the website or contact the company directly to inquire about any current deals or special offers. Booking in advance may also unlock savings.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby