Dingle Bay & Blasket Islands: Boat Tour with Wildlife Sighting

Summary

Salt air, island stories & wild dolphins off County Kerry

You’ll sail from Dingle Bay past wild Slea Head cliffs toward the Great Blasket Islands, guided by locals who share stories of vanished island life. Expect dolphin sightings (if you’re lucky), seals popping up beside the boat, and maybe even puffins swirling overhead. It’s salty air, family tales, and untamed Atlantic beauty—something you won’t quite shake off afterward.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I booked the Dingle Bay boat tour mostly because I’d seen photos of the Blasket Islands and just felt this weird pull—like there was something out there I needed to see for myself. The morning we set off, the sky was that kind of Irish grey that makes everything feel softer. Our skipper, Tomás, greeted us with a grin and a “You’ll want your jacket,” which turned out to be solid advice. There’s something about the way the wind smells here—briny and sharp, but also sweet with gorse flowers if you catch it right.

As we left Dingle behind and traced along Slea Head, Tomás kept pointing out things I’d never have noticed: a ruined stone hut tucked into the cliffs, a swirl of seabirds chasing mackerel. He told us how his grandmother grew up speaking Irish on Great Blasket before everyone had to leave in the fifties. There’s this hush when you get close to the islands—like even the sea gets quieter for a second. We saw dolphins (I nearly dropped my phone trying to film them), and seals bobbing like little grey buoys. Didn’t spot any whales this time, but honestly I didn’t mind.

I tried asking about puffins in my best attempt at an Irish accent—Tomás just laughed and said they’re “the real locals.” The way he talked about life out here made it feel less like a tour and more like being let in on some family secret. The whole boat seemed to relax after that; people started chatting about where they were from or just staring at the islands in silence. There was a bit of drizzle halfway through but nobody cared—someone passed around ginger biscuits and we all pretended not to shiver.

The trip back felt different somehow—I think because once you’ve seen those empty houses on Great Blasket, you start imagining what it would be like living out there with only wind and sea for company. I still think about that view as we rounded back toward Dingle—the water all silvered under low clouds, gulls wheeling overhead—and how small but lucky I felt just being part of it for an afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to Great Blasket Islands

• Depart from Dingle Bay
• Travel along Slea Head coastline
• Spot dolphins, whales, seals, puffins
• Learn about local history and wildlife
• Explore Great Blasket Islands area
• Return to Dingle Bay

Top questions

How long is the Dingle Bay & Blasket Islands boat tour?

The tour lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours from departure to return.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed on this tour?

No, wildlife such as dolphins or puffins are often seen but can’t be guaranteed.

Is there a guide on board?

Yes, each boat tour includes a knowledgeable local guide who shares history and points out wildlife.

What should I wear for this boat trip?

The weather can change quickly; bring warm layers and waterproof clothing.

Is lunch included in the tour?

No meals are included; snacks may be shared informally among guests.

Can children join this day trip?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?

The boat operates in most weather; dress appropriately as tours go ahead unless conditions are unsafe.

What’s included

Your trip covers all taxes and fees plus your seat with a local skipper-guide from Dingle Bay out along Slea Head to Great Blasket Island before looping back—a simple setup so you can focus on sea air, stories, and whatever wildlife decides to show up that day.