Dublin: Howth Cruise and Dine Experience

Planning a trip to Dublin and looking for a way to enjoy Ireland’s stunning coastline with a splash of local flavor? The Howth Cruise and Dine Experience offers an interesting combination of scenic boat rides and a hearty Irish meal right in Howth. While it’s not perfect, it provides a unique opportunity to see Dublin Bay from the water and enjoy some authentic Irish hospitality afterward.

What’s appealing? The stunning views of Howth Cliffs, Ireland’s Eye, and Baily Lighthouse are genuinely memorable, especially for those who love coastlines and wildlife. Plus, the chance to learn from a local guide with a family history on the waters adds a personal touch. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the trip’s value for money can be questionable, and service quality might not meet everyone’s expectations.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a taste of local cuisine. It’s especially good if you enjoy nature, birdwatching, and coastal scenery, and are comfortable with a somewhat variable boat experience. If you’re after a perfectly polished, luxurious cruise, this might not be your best bet—but for authentic charm and memorable vistas, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: The cruise offers breathtaking sights of Howth Cliffs, Dublin Bay, Baily Lighthouse, and Ireland’s Eye.
• Wildlife Watching: Expect to see seals, puffins, and other birdlife, making it ideal for nature lovers.
• Local Guide: An experienced local captain provides commentary, sharing insights into the area’s natural and maritime history.
• Food & Drink: The included meal at Findlaters offers good local produce, with a glass of wine or a pint included.
• Duration & Flexibility: The overall experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with flexible start times.
• Mixed Reviews: While the views and guide are praised, some travelers note that the boat trip can feel underwhelming or overpriced.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Boat Ride: A Scenic Journey Over Dublin Bay

The centerpiece of this experience is the scenic cruise aboard the M.V Adam Patricia, the fastest and newest ferry in Howth. Departing from the West Pier at 4:30 pm (or check availability for other times), you’ll step aboard and begin a roughly 50-minute ride that promises to show you some of the most striking sights of Dublin’s coastline.

What makes this cruise special? For many, it’s the view of Howth Cliffs up close. The cliffs tower dramatically over the ocean, providing a rugged backdrop that’s hard to beat. As you glide past, you’ll see Ireland’s Eye, a coastal island renowned for its bird colonies and natural beauty, offering an unusual vantage point compared to land-based views.

Wildlife watching is often highlighted as a major plus. Expect to see grey seals lounging on rocks, and if lucky, you might catch sight of puffins, known for nesting along the cliffs. The captain, Captain Mark, provides a one-hour commentary—a notable feature—where he shares insights about bird life, rock formations, and local history. His family’s long-standing connection to Dublin waters adds a personal, authentic flavor to the narration.

The Not-So-Perfect Aspects of the Boat Trip

While the scenery is undeniably impressive, some reviews point out that the trip duration and value for money don’t always align. One traveler called the boat ride “only 40 minutes” instead of the advertised three hours, which can feel brief if you’re expecting a longer experience.

Plus, the crew professionalism has been questioned. Reports of crew members arguing during the trip, or staff lacking area knowledge, can diminish the overall experience. This seems to be a rare issue, but it’s worth noting, especially if you value the expertise and friendliness of your guides.

The Post-Cruise Feast: Dining in Findlaters

After the boat ride, the tour continues at Findlaters, a well-established restaurant in Howth. Your ticket includes a meal with a main course, starter, or dessert, plus a glass of wine or a pint. We loved the idea of ending a scenic trip with hearty Irish fare in a cozy setting.

The restaurant staff generally know the experience, but some guests report waiting a little longer than expected or difficulty with vouchers. One review described waiting 20 minutes for confirmation, which can be frustrating if you’re hungry or on a tight schedule. That said, most agree that the food was enjoyable once they were seated, and including drinks with the meal offers good value overall.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is straightforward but packed with highlights:

• Start at Howth’s West Pier: The meeting point is easy to find at the black gate at the end of the pier. The boat departs promptly at 4:30 pm, so arriving a little early ensures smooth boarding.
• Baily Lighthouse: The cruise passes by this historic lighthouse, giving you a chance to snap photos of one of Ireland’s most recognizable maritime landmarks.
• Photo Stop in Howth: The boat pauses briefly for photos of the quaint harbor village, which is known for its seafood and lively market.
• Wildlife & Scenic Views: The cruise continues past Balscadden Bay, Ireland’s Eye, and along the cliffs, with ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the natural scenery.
• Wildlife and Rock Formations: The captain’s commentary makes these moments engaging, especially if you’re interested in birds and marine life.

The entire experience wraps up back at the pier, ready for you to explore Howth further or head to the restaurant.

Practical Details & Tips for Travelers

Timing & Duration: The cruise lasts roughly 50 minutes, with the entire experience spanning about 3 hours including the meal. Check availability for your preferred start time; the 4:30 pm departure is most common.

Cost & Value: The ticket price includes the boat ride, a meal, and a drink. While this offers convenience and a bundled experience, some travelers may find that the boat trip feels shorter than expected, and reviews suggest that the crew’s professionalism can vary.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.

Weather & Conditions: The tour runs rain or shine, with cancellations only due to windy or unsafe conditions. Dress appropriately—windy, chilly, or rainy weather is common along the coast.

Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is a plus in case of sudden weather changes or shifts in plans.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This Howth Cruise and Dine Experience offers a great way for visitors to see Dublin Bay from a different perspective and enjoy some local Irish hospitality afterward. It’s perfect for those who appreciate coastal scenery, wildlife, and a relaxed atmosphere, and who want an authentic touch rather than a highly commercialized tour.

However, if you’re seeking a luxurious, in-depth cruise with a polished crew, or if you’re on a tight schedule and want the longest possible trip, you might find this experience somewhat lacking. It’s more about the authentic charm, breathtaking views, and local flavor than luxury or high-end service.

Travelers who don’t mind a few imperfections and are happy to soak in the natural wonders of Dublin’s coast will find this a worthwhile outing, especially when paired with a good meal in Howth’s friendly restaurants.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is the cruise suitable for children or families?
Yes, the cruise is generally suitable for families, especially those interested in wildlife and scenic views. The boat is accessible by wheelchair, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.

How long does the entire experience last?
The cruise itself is about 50 minutes. Including the meal and waiting times, plan for roughly 3 hours in total.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, a main course, starter, or dessert, and a glass of wine or pint of beer.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing or an umbrella, especially if the weather looks uncertain. Windproof gear is advisable along the coast.

Is the trip weather dependent?
The tour runs rain or shine, but cancellations occur only under windy, unsafe conditions.

Are there any audio guides or commentary?
Yes, an experienced local captain provides a one-hour commentary on bird life, rock formations, and local history.

Will I see wildlife?
Most likely, including grey seals and possibly puffins, especially if the season is right. The captain’s insights enhance the wildlife experience.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
Meet at the black gate at the end of Howth’s West Pier. The exact location is clearly marked.

Can I combine this with other activities?
Yes, after the cruise and meal, you can explore Howth’s quaint village, markets, or coastal walks.

To sum it up, the Dublin: Howth Cruise and Dine Experience is a charming option for travelers wanting a scenic, wildlife-filled boat ride paired with a hearty Irish meal. While some aspects—like the trip length and crew professionalism—receive mixed reviews, the stunning views and authentic atmosphere make it a worthwhile choice for many. It’s best suited for those who value natural beauty and local culture over luxury or high-end service, and who don’t mind a slightly casual, unpredictable element in their outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: