Boat Trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth: Dublin Bay Wildlife

Seals, lighthouses and islands from the water instead of the shore

A one-way sailing trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth across Dublin Bay, with a live English-speaking guide pointing out seals, lighthouses, islands and wildlife reserves you cannot see from land. The voyage takes 60–70 minutes and includes WiFi and onboard restroom; arrive 15 minutes early to board.

Step-by-step itinerary

Boat trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth

• Depart from Dun Laoghaire Harbour
• Enjoy 60-70 minute voyage
• View Dalkey Island and Clontarf
• See Bull Island wildlife reserve
• Spot Baily and Kish Lighthouses
• Observe Howth Head and Ireland Eye
• Watch seals at Howth Harbour

The Experience

You board at Dun Laoghaire Harbour and spend the next hour on the water watching Dublin's coastline unfold from a perspective no road or footpath offers. The route passes Dalkey Island, Clontarf, Bull Island (a world wildlife reserve), the Baily and Kish Lighthouses, Howth Head, Ireland Eye and Lambay Island. Seals swim in Howth Harbour as you arrive. A live guide in English narrates the sights and the wildlife as they come into view, so you are not guessing at what you are looking at.

The boat has WiFi on board and a restroom, so the crossing is comfortable even if the weather turns — the operator runs in different conditions, so bring a jacket. Infants can travel in a pram or stroller, and service animals are welcome. If you are arriving by car, allow 30 minutes to find parking near the harbour before you need to board; public parking is available close by, though the operator does not run a lot of their own. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure so there is no rush to get on.

Once you reach Howth, you can explore the village, walk the cliff-top paths, grab lunch at the harbour or catch a return sailing back to Dun Laoghaire if you booked that option. Snacks and drinks are sold on the boat itself, so you do not need to bring everything with you.

What’s included

• One-way sailing from Dun Laoghaire to Howth.
• live guide in English.
• WiFi on board.
• onboard restroom.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Dublin Bay Cruises

Is this one for you?The crossing takes just over an hour, so it fits into a free afternoon or a morning before other plans — you arrive in Howth with the rest of the day open for walking, eating or catching a return boat. If you need a full day trip with multiple stops and a guided tour of Howth itself, book a longer shore excursion instead.

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Top questions

What wildlife will I actually see on the boat trip from Dun Laoghaire to Howth?

Seals are the most common sighting, especially in Howth Harbour as you arrive. The route also passes Dalkey Island, Bull Island (a designated wildlife reserve), and Lambay Island, and you will see the Baily and Kish Lighthouses and Ireland Eye along the way. A live guide points out what is visible as the boat passes each site.

How long does the sailing from Dun Laoghaire to Howth actually take?

The voyage takes 60 to 70 minutes. It is a one-way trip, so you arrive in Howth and stay there; if you want to return to Dun Laoghaire the same day, you can book a separate return sailing.

What should I know about parking if I am driving to Dun Laoghaire Harbour?

Public parking is available near the harbour, but the boat operator does not run their own lot. Allow at least 30 minutes to find a spot before you need to board, and arrive at the harbour 15 minutes before departure.

Can I bring young children or a baby on this boat trip?

Yes. Infants and small children can travel in a pram or stroller, and infants must sit on an adult's lap during the voyage. Service animals are also allowed on board.

What is included on the boat, and what can I buy separately?

WiFi and an onboard restroom are included. Snacks and drinks are available from the boat's snack bar if you want to purchase them during the crossing.

Does the boat run if the weather is bad?

The service operates in different weather conditions, so dress appropriately for wind and rain. Check the forecast before you go and bring a waterproof jacket.