Dublin: Dalkey Kayak Safari with Seals & Island Views

Summary

Dalkey’s wild seals playful waters and a fresh sea breeze

You’ll paddle out from Dalkey with a small group and local guide, feeling Dublin Bay’s salty air on your face. Watch wild seals swim right beside your kayak and pause near Dalkey Island’s old ruins for stories and birdlife. Expect laughter, cold water (in a good way), all gear provided — plus those quiet moments you don’t see coming.

What’s the experience like?

I was barely zipped into my wetsuit when the wind off Dublin Bay hit me — sharper than I’d expected for June, but it woke me right up. Our guide, Ciarán, handed out paddles and cracked a joke about “Irish summer” that made everyone laugh. The harbour at Bullock was noisy with gulls and the slap of water against stone; someone next to me tried to say “Dalkey” with an Irish lilt and got corrected by a local fisherman just passing by. You could smell salt and something faintly fishy (not in a bad way) — it felt real, like you were about to do something properly outside your usual.

Once we pushed off in our kayaks, the city faded behind us quick. The water was colder than I thought it’d be when my hand slipped in, but after a few minutes paddling along the Dalkey coastline, I stopped noticing. Ciarán pointed out Dalkey Island ahead — just this green lump with old ruins on top — and told us about its history while we drifted for a bit. Then he grinned and whispered “look left.” There they were: two seals bobbing up like nosy neighbors, dark eyes following us as we floated past. One of them snorted so loud I jumped (and nearly dropped my paddle), which got a laugh from everyone else.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would get once we reached the far side of the island. Just birds calling overhead and that weird echo you get over water when nobody’s talking. We sat there for a minute or two — not really saying anything — watching another seal flop onto a rock. My arms were tired but I didn’t mind; honestly, I still think about that silence sometimes when things get busy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour and seal watching

• Meet and receive wetsuit
• Learn to use kayaking equipment
• Wear spare footwear for kayaking
• Kayak in Bullock Harbour
• Paddle along Dalkey coastline
• Visit Dalkey Island if weather allows
• Enjoy views of Dublin Bay
• Observe Dalkey seals playing
• See local birdlife
• Stop for scenic and informative breaks
• Kayak back to Bullock Harbour

Top questions

Do I need kayaking experience for this tour?

No prior kayaking experience is needed, but you must be able to swim comfortably while wearing a buoyancy aid.

Where does the kayak tour start?

The tour begins at Bullock Harbour in Dalkey, just outside Dublin city.

Will I see seals during the Dalkey kayak safari?

Yes, wild seals are commonly seen swimming around the kayaks along the Dalkey coastline.

Is equipment included in the price?

Yes, wetsuit, kayak, paddle, and buoyancy aid are all provided for you.

How long does the kayaking activity last?

The reference doesn’t specify exact duration but includes time paddling to Dalkey Island and back with scenic stops.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is included; only kayaking equipment is provided.

Can non-swimmers join this Dublin Bay kayak tour?

No, all participants must be able to swim confidently while wearing a buoyancy aid.

Are there public transport options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Bullock Harbour in Dalkey.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a wetsuit, kayak, paddle, and buoyancy aid — everything you need to get on the water safely with your local guide before returning to Bullock Harbour at the end of your adventure.