6 Of The Most Spectacular Boat Tours In Dublin
Nothing beats heading out to sea and feeling the fresh ocean breeze smack you in the face, and what better way to experience this than by taking a boat trip in Dublin?
We’ve curated a list of the ultimate boat tours in Dublin you can take to discover the city’s top attractions and hidden gems while at sea. Some kick-start from the docklands while others from the rugged seaside, like the Dublin Bay Cruise from Howth to Dun Laoghaire.
Hold on to the handrails as we sail down this comprehensive article filled with Dublin city boat tours.
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The Best Boat Trips To Take In Dublin
Sightseeing Cruise On The River Liffey
See what the inner city has to offer on this Dublin Liffey Cruise boat tour.
This 45-minute sightseeing cruise takes you down the world-famous river Liffey to places steeped in Ireland’s history, such as the Jeanie Johnston, and key sights, such as the Ha’penny Bridge and Samuel Beckett Bridge.
For our trigger-happy readers, don’t worry; you’ll have plenty of time to grab some unique photo-ops from this boat trip on the Liffey. The all-weather, 22-passenger boat will take plenty of turns so everyone onboard can enjoy the city views. Bantering guides will entertain you the whole way through the journey with unheard tales of the attractions you pass by.
The Dublin Bay Cruise
Whether you admire famous locations, the sinking sun, or the soothing sea – you’re sure to fall in love with the Dublin Bay boat tour.
Choose from three different selected itineraries: two of the boat trips are carefully crafted to navigate the waters between Dun Laoghaire and the city centre in the early hours of the morning. Not an early riser? Don’t worry, the finest and longest embarks in the evening from Howth. This one exposes secret finds from Ireland’s Eye to Lambay Island, with various stops at seal colonies and picture-perfect lighthouses along the way.
On the day of the Dublin Bay cruise, you must meet your tour operator at Sir John Rogerson’s Quay. For this Dublin Howth boat trip, the departure point is West Pier. From there, you’ll embark on a spacious vessel with only ten passengers, and a fully-loaded bar will be waiting to be taken advantage of. However, drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, so bring some extra cash.
The Howth Sunset Cruise
Set out on a journey to the eerie east, leaving the bustle of the big city behind. Like most boat trips around Dublin Bay, you’ll make your way to the West Pier first for boarding.
Soon after, you’ll set off to locate the awe-inspiring cliffs that will dominate the panorama and take your breath away. Hundreds of visitors take gruelling summer hikes to these rock formations, but you’ll get to see it all with your own eyes from a different perspective and a better one, to be frank.
Before you head back to shore, hopefully, you’ll be able to catch the sun dipping below the horizon while you chill out on the deck if the weather is nice. Look out for seals and a variety of marine animals with the help of your captain, who knows the waters better than anyone else.
The One-Hour Howth Coastal Boat Tour
Hop on this one-hour coastal boat ride trip that ventures past Howth Harbor, picking up passengers to take them to the likes of the magical Ireland’s Eye, fascinating sea caves and various forms of sea life. Spot some flickering cottage-styled lighthouses, and Georgian-era Martello towers placed stunningly against rocky cliffs while clear skies hang over them.
Despite Howth being a renowned tourist attraction in itself, the coastal town preserves a small fishing village vibe that you’ll love. See local fishermen casually setting up their casting nets for the day ahead and quirky markets around the harbour, which allow visitors to taste the finest treats from the Irish cuisine. This is just some of what this Dublin harbour cruise has to offer.
The Dublin Music Under The Bridge Kayaking Tour
Are we talking about a private concert and River Liffey boat tour in Dublin all in one? We sure are.
This 2.5-hour-long boating expedition involves kayaking, acoustics, and sightseeing of the highest order. What more could you ask for on a Dublin kayaking tour?
Sean O’Casey Bridge is the convenient departure point where you’ll meet your guide. You can change your clothes and store electronic items in the restroom before heading down the river, as tides often splash the interior. Bring a towel on this Dublin canal boat tour, just in case.
Due to heavy traffic, over a dozen pedestrian bridges dot the Liffey landscape – each one more charming than the other. They illuminate the river with different hues at night. Talented young musicians welcome you with melodic songs and stories at every turn. See it all for yourself on this tour.
The Old Liffey Ferry Guided Tour
We all know the River Liffey is the beating heart of Dublin. Now’s your chance to see how it has been used for centuries by Vikings and traders to make the city what it is today. Sail back to the past and learn about original communities that set up shop around its meandering docks with traditions that still define the native way of life today on this Old Liffey Ferry sailing trip.
Your river cruise will depart from North Wall Quay beside MV Cill Airne Restaurant. There, you’ll settle in for a historical adventure like no other.
Spot the attractions that you’ve dreamt about for many years, such as the Samuel Beckett Bridge, Poolbeg Lighthouse, Pidgeon House, and chimneys of Ringsend and hear about their significance still to this day. All while you get to kick back and relax while floating down the Liffey.
Are There Any Other Boating Experiences That You Should Take A Look At?
Of course, because of Dublin’s geographical location beside the Irish Sea, there’s an abundance of Boat excursions that you can book. Here are a few more to look at.
What’s The Best Website To Book Your Boat Tours In Dublin From?
Viator and Get Your Guide is hands down the best websites to book any boat trip. They have an array of options to suit everyone and offer competitive rates, and are always at your service if you need any help with your booking.
Be Free, Just Like the Sea!
Dublin takes pride in its stunning coastline, where many go to escape the stresses of everyday life. And now’s your chance to see it for yourself on one of these sailing trips. Whether you’re on a weekend vacation or a first-time visit, getting your seat reserved on one of the best boat tours in Dublin should be your first port of call when you arrive in the capital.
Written By Adam
Where In Dublin is owned, controlled, and run by Adam Ryan. He’s a one-man army who knows Dublin like the back of his hand and strives to help anybody planning on visiting Dublin enjoy themselves.