Dingle Bay: Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour with Blasket Islands

Summary

Whale and dolphin watching boat trip around Dingle’s Blasket Islands

You’ll board a small boat in Dingle Bay for four hours of whale and dolphin watching around the Blasket Islands, with a local guide sharing stories along the Wild Atlantic Way. Expect close-up moments with dolphins, puffins bobbing nearby, salty air in your hair, and plenty of chances to chat or just stare out at endless ocean.

What’s the experience like?

It started with Tomás grinning at us from the pier in Dingle, calling out to see if we’d remembered our hats — “You’ll need ‘em, trust me!” he said, and honestly, I should’ve listened. The wind had that salty bite you only get on Ireland’s west coast. We clambered aboard the Blasket Princess, still fiddling with my scarf when a woman next to me offered her extra gloves (I never caught her name, but she had the warmest laugh). Our wildlife guide, Áine, gave a quick rundown of what we might spot — dolphins for sure, maybe whales if we were lucky — and then off we went past Ventry village into open water.

The first thing I noticed was how quiet it got once we left the harbor behind. Just the hum of the engine and seabirds wheeling overhead. Someone pointed — “There!” — and suddenly there were dolphins right by the bow, slipping through grey waves like it was nothing special. Áine explained they’re common bottlenose dolphins that hang around Dingle Bay year-round. I tried to snap a photo but mostly just stared; their backs glistened every time they surfaced. Further out near the Blasket Islands, puffins bobbed like little clowns on the water (I’d only ever seen them in books before), and seals watched us from rocks with these big dark eyes. No whales today — apparently they show up more often later in summer — but honestly I didn’t mind.

I spent half an hour up on the flying bridge where you can see forever if you don’t mind your hair whipping everywhere. The Atlantic looked endless from up there; you could taste salt every time you licked your lips. Tomás told stories about storms that hit this coast (“You wouldn’t believe last October…”) while Áine pointed out where monks once lived on those bare little islands. There was coffee inside for anyone who needed to thaw out fingers (me), and people drifted between deck and cabin as they liked. It felt relaxed — nobody rushing or shushing anyone else.

Back at the pier, I realized my cheeks hurt from smiling so much at strangers and sea creatures alike. There’s something about being out there that makes you feel small in a good way — I still think about those dolphins weaving through cold water like old friends showing off their home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin and whale watching tour

• Board M.V. Blasket Princess boat
• Set sail around Blasket Islands
• Watch for dolphins, whales, seals
• Spot puffins and basking sharks
• View seascapes from flying bridge
• Enjoy inside and deck seating
• Return to Dingle harbor

Top questions

How long does the Dingle Bay whale & dolphin watching tour last?

The tour is approximately 4 hours long.

Are children allowed on this whale watching tour?

No, this trip is not suitable for children under 10 years of age.

Is parking included for this Dingle boat tour?

Yes, free car parking is available on the pier and in Ventry village.

What wildlife can you see during this Dingle Bay tour?

You may see dolphins, whales (in season), seals, basking sharks (in season), puffins, and other marine birds.

Is there indoor seating available on the boat?

Yes, there is inside seating for 20 passengers as well as outdoor deck seating.

Does this Dingle Bay wildlife tour include a guide?

Yes, an experienced skipper and wildlife guide are onboard throughout the trip.

What should I wear for this whale & dolphin watching trip?

Dress warmly with a windproof jacket and warm hat; it can be cold and windy at sea.

Can I bring my service animal on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes four hours aboard a comfortable boat with both indoor and outdoor seating options (plus access to a flying bridge for better wildlife viewing), guidance from an experienced skipper and wildlife expert who’ll share stories along the way, complimentary car parking right by the pier or in Ventry village—so you won’t have to stress about logistics before setting sail.