Dublin: Howth Cliffs and Ireland’s Eye Boat Cruise

When it comes to exploring Dublin’s coast, this boat cruise from Howth offers a straightforward, scenic escape. It’s a neat way to combine stunning coastal views with wildlife spotting, all wrapped up in a relaxing hour on the water. We’re here to give you the full scoop on what makes this experience worth considering—and what to watch out for.

Two things we really like about this cruise: First, the unbeatable views of Howth Cliffs and Lambay Island that you get from the water, giving a fresh perspective on Dublin’s rugged coastline. Second, the chance to see bird and seal colonies at Ireland’s Eye, which adds an element of nature and wildlife that appeals to most travelers. However, a potential downside is that the cruise does not stop at Ireland’s Eye, so if you’re hoping for a landing or more interactive experience, you might need a different tour.

This cruise is well-suited for those who want a relaxed, affordable way to see Dublin’s coast from the water—perfect for families, couples, or anyone craving a peaceful, scenic break from busy city sightseeing.

Key Points

• Affordable at $26, offering excellent value for a scenic, wildlife-viewing cruise.
• Breathtaking views of Howth Cliffs and Lambay Island from the water.
• Wildlife sightings of seals and birds at Ireland’s Eye make for memorable moments.
• Relaxing 60-minute cruise with a bar serving coffee and wine onboard.
• Departure from Howth’s West Pier makes it easily accessible for visitors staying in Dublin or nearby.
• Not suited for those expecting an island landing, as the boat stays on the move.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

This cruise is marketed as a 60-minute roundtrip departing from Howth’s West Pier, a charming harbor just outside Dublin city. The boat used for the trip is called the St. Bridget, and it’s designed to offer an elevated perspective on the coastline. You’ll find it just opposite the Aqua Restaurant, making it quite easy to locate whether you arrive on foot or by public transport.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

The cruise begins at the West Pier, where the boat gently sets off along the coast. As you leave the harbor, you’ll immediately notice the spectacular views of Howth’s rugged cliffs—a must-see for anyone who appreciates dramatic landscapes. The boat then heads north toward Malahide and Lambay Island—an area known for its scenic beauty and birdlife.

One of the highlights is the stop at Ireland’s Eye, a small island home to a sizeable seal colony and numerous bird species. While the cruise doesn’t stop at the island, you’ll be close enough to see the seals basking on rocks and observe seabirds soaring overhead. Passengers have expressed admiration for the stunning scenery and the up-close wildlife sightings. One traveler even described the experience as “amazing,” highlighting how the views and wildlife made it special.

Finally, the boat turns southward along the coast toward Howth’s Cliffs, providing sweeping vistas of the rugged coastline. The entire cruise is complemented by the opportunity to enjoy a drink or coffee from the onboard bar, making the hour pass pleasantly. As you cruise back to the West Pier, you’ll have one last look at the coastline and the ever-changing sea.

The Practical Side: What to Know

Departure times vary, so it’s best to check availability and reserve in advance. The cruise runs roughly for an hour, which makes it a quick but impactful experience—you won’t be stuck on the water for hours. The price point of $26 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the panoramic views and wildlife sightings.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes and a jacket, as you’ll be outdoors during the cruise. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, but the onboard bar offers coffee and wine, so you can relax without worrying about bringing your own beverages.

What Some Travelers Say

Feedback is generally positive, with an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 12 reviews. Several travelers appreciated the stunning views and the wildlife encounters. One person described it as “amazing,” emphasizing the beautiful scenery and the relaxed atmosphere.

However, some reviews mentioned crowding on the boat, which could make it hard to see or move around freely. As one traveler noted, “too many people on the boat” can limit visibility, so arriving early or choosing less busy times might improve your experience.

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Why This Cruise Is Worth Considering

This boat trip strikes a good balance between affordability and scenery. It’s ideal for those who want a short, scenic break from city touring, with the bonus of wildlife viewing. The views of Howth Cliffs and Lambay Island are picture-perfect, and the wildlife sightings at Ireland’s Eye can make it a memorable highlight.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor experiences but don’t want to commit to a longer or more involved tour. The relaxed pace, combined with the opportunity to enjoy drinks onboard, makes it feel more like a leisurely cruise than a sightseeing hustle.

Who Will Love This Experience

This cruise is perfect for families with kids, couples on a romantic outing, or solo travelers who appreciate nature and scenic views. If you’re looking for a quick, inexpensive way to see Dublin’s coast from the water, this is a solid choice.

Those who enjoy wildlife and nature photography will find the seals and seabirds a delightful bonus. However, if you’re expecting an island visit or a highly educational tour, you’ll want to look elsewhere, as this is primarily a scenic cruise with wildlife viewing.

The Sum Up: The Right Choice for a Relaxed Coastal View

For travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic hour along Dublin’s coastline, this cruise offers great value and some of the best views available. It’s a straightforward outing that highlights the natural beauty of Howth’s cliffs and the wildlife at Ireland’s Eye without the need for complex arrangements or costly add-ons.

If your goal is to enjoy breathtaking vistas from the water, spot seals and seabirds, and sip a glass of wine while you relax, then this cruise hits the mark. It’s a no-fuss, authentic experience that captures the rugged charm of Dublin’s coast in a casual, enjoyable way.

Just remember, crowding can be an issue on busy days—arriving early or choosing off-peak times might make your experience even better. Also, keep expectations realistic: no island landing is included, but the scenery and wildlife will still make this a memorable little adventure.

FAQ

Does the cruise stop at Ireland’s Eye?
No, the cruise does not stop at Ireland’s Eye. It stays on a route that allows you to see the island’s seal and bird colonies from a distance, but there’s no landing or stopover.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 60 minutes, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the harbor and a jacket to stay warm on the water. Since drinks aren’t included, you might want to buy a coffee or wine from the onboard bar.

How much does the cruise cost?
The ticket price is $26 per person, offering good value for the scenic experience given the views and wildlife sightings.

Is there any parking nearby?
While parking fees are not included, the cruise departs from West Pier in Howth, which is accessible by public transport and likely has parking options nearby.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in case your plans shift.

This cruise from Howth offers a simple yet memorable way to enjoy Dublin’s coast. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local wanting a quick escape, it’s a peaceful, scenic hour worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: