Howth Coastal Boat Tour from Dublin
Overview
This shared 50-minute boat tour leaves from the harbour at Howth, the fishing village on the northern edge of Dublin Bay. Your guide points out the Howth cliffs, sea caves and the island of Ireland's Eye, and helps you spot seabirds and seals along the way. Departures run through the middle of the day, and the trip suits couples, families and anyone who wants a taste of the coast without a long journey. Hotel pickup is not included, so you meet the boat at Howth.
Highlights
- Guided boat trip of about 50 minutes along the Howth coast
- Views of the Howth cliffs, harbour and coastline from the water
- Cruise around Ireland's Eye, a protected island and seabird refuge
- Chance to see seals, gannets, guillemots and, in season, puffins
- Commentary from a guide on board
- Several departures between late morning and late afternoon
- Easy day out from Dublin, ideal with a walk around Howth village
Full Description
Howth harbour and the fishing village
Howth is a fishing village on a rocky peninsula at the northern edge of Dublin Bay, and it is one of the most popular places for a day out from the city. The harbour was built in the early 19th century and is still busy with fishing boats, yachts and seafood restaurants along the pier.
Your boat tour starts here, and it fits neatly with a walk around the village, the harbour seals and the seafront. If you are searching for a Howth boat trip from Dublin, note that you meet the boat at Howth harbour itself. Trains and buses from central Dublin reach the village in around half an hour, which makes it an easy half-day excursion.
The Howth cliffs and sea caves
From the water you see the Howth headland from a completely different angle. Steep cliffs drop into the sea, and the guide points out coves, rock formations and small sea caves that you cannot reach on the cliff path. The Baily lighthouse and the coastal viewpoints add to the scenery.
The boat is a small vessel that can get close to the rocks in calm conditions, so the views are close and detailed. Choose a clear day for the best light, and bring a windproof jacket because it is cooler on the water. A Howth cliffs boat trip is also a good way to see the coast if you have less time or energy for the cliff walk.
Ireland's Eye and the wildlife
Ireland's Eye is an uninhabited island just off the coast, and it is a protected nature reserve where thousands of seabirds nest. The boat circles the island, passing a Martello tower and the ruins of an early church, and gets a close look at a large rock stack where birds gather.
Look for gannets, guillemots and razorbills, and in the summer months puffins may appear. Grey seals often rest on rocks around the harbour and the island, and dolphins are sometimes spotted. Sightings depend on the season and the weather, so the guide cannot promise a particular animal, but the birdlife is a highlight of the tour throughout the year.
Dublin Bay Biosphere and how to plan
The Howth coast lies within the Dublin Bay Biosphere, a UNESCO-designated area that protects a mix of wetlands, beaches, islands and urban coast around the capital. Your guide explains how this area is looked after and why the bay is so important for birds.
The trip lasts about 50 minutes, with departures on the hour in the middle of the day, subject to weather and season. Sea conditions can lead to changes or cancellations, and your booking panel shows the times available. Wear layers and flat shoes, and be aware that the boat is small. This is a shared tour, so you may sit with other guests.
Itinerary
- Meet at Howth harbourArrive a few minutes before your departure and show your voucher at the pier.
- Depart along the coastThe boat leaves the harbour and heads out past the cliffs of the Howth headland.
- Ireland's EyeCircle the island with the guide, looking for seabirds and seals.
- Cliffs, caves and the Martello towerCruise beside the sea caves and past the tower, with photo stops along the way.
- Return to the harbourHead back to Howth after about 50 minutes and step ashore.
What's included
- Boat tour along the Howth coast
- Guide on board
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Tips
Not suitable for
- Guests who cannot step safely on and off a small boat
- Travellers who prefer guaranteed hotel pickup, as it is not included
- Anyone very prone to seasickness on rough days
Meeting point
Meet at the boat departure point at Howth harbour on the West Pier. The exact meeting point is shown on your voucher after booking. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so please arrive at Howth a little before your departure time.
Important information
- Departures run through the day and depend on the weather and sea conditions
- Wear warm layers, a windproof jacket and flat, non-slip shoes
- Bring a camera or binoculars for seabirds and seals
- Sightings of wildlife depend on the season and cannot be guaranteed
- Food and drinks are not included, but there are places to eat along Howth harbour
- Arrive a few minutes early to check in
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the Howth boat tour cost?
The price depends on the passenger type. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for adults and children on your chosen date.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. The tour starts at Howth harbour, and the exact meeting point appears on your voucher after booking.
How long is the boat tour?
The boat trip lasts about 50 minutes.
Is the Howth boat tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join, and a child fare is available in the booking panel. Younger children should stay seated and wear warm clothes.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear warm layers and a windproof jacket, with flat, non-slip shoes. Bring a camera or binoculars for the wildlife.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often yes, depending on availability and the weather. Choose your date in the booking panel to see the departure times that are open.
What is included?
The ticket includes the boat tour along the Howth coast and a guide on board. Food, drinks and hotel pickup are not included.
Will I see puffins and seals?
Seals and seabirds such as gannets and guillemots are commonly seen, and puffins can appear in summer. Wildlife sightings depend on the season and cannot be guaranteed.
How do I get to Howth from Dublin?
Howth is on the northern edge of Dublin Bay and can be reached from central Dublin in about half an hour by train or bus.
Is the Howth boat trip worth it?
Yes, if you enjoy coastal scenery and wildlife. It is a short, relaxed trip that pairs well with a walk around the village.
