Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye Ferry: Wildlife Cruise, Local Crew

Summary

Boat tour along Howth Cliffs with wildlife views and island stories

You’ll ride a local ferry past Howth Cliffs with live stories from your skipper, spot puffins and seals around Ireland’s Eye, and feel Dublin Bay’s wild air up close. There’s time for photos, laughter with locals, and glimpses into real island life—plus you get there easily from Dublin city center.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the ferry because I got distracted by the smell of fish and chips drifting from the harbour. The Puffin was already bobbing at the dock, bright blue paint chipped in places, and Mark — our skipper — waved me over with that easy Irish grin. He joked about “Dublin time” as I clambered on, cheeks red from jogging. There were maybe a dozen of us, all bundled up against the wind, except for one brave kid in shorts (his mum looked resigned).

The boat moved out past Howth Lighthouse, its white tower looking kind of lonely against the grey sky. Mark started telling stories — some about his granddad fishing these waters, others about shipwrecks or seabirds I’d never heard of. At one point he pointed out a cluster of guillemots nesting on the rocks; they looked like little tuxedoed commuters waiting for a train. The air smelled salty but also faintly grassy when we got closer to Ireland’s Eye — apparently that’s wild thyme growing there, which I wouldn’t have guessed.

I didn’t expect to see so many seals lounging on the rocks (they barely blinked as we floated by), or to laugh so much at Mark’s commentary about the Kirwan murder — he made it sound like an old pub tale rather than a crime story. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for seabirds calling overhead and the slap of water against the hull. I still think about that view back toward Howth village, all soft green and slate roofs under clouds that never quite decide what they’re doing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Howth Cliffs and Ireland's Eye cruise

• Start tour at Baily Lighthouse
• Cruise along Howth Cliffs on Puffin ferry
• Enjoy views and commentary of Howth Lighthouse
• Circle Ireland’s Eye island and observe wildlife

Top questions

How do I get to Howth Cliffs boat tour from Dublin?

You can take an easy DART train or bus journey from Dublin City Centre to reach Howth harbour for the ferry tour.

Is there live commentary during the Howth Cliffs & Ireland's Eye cruise?

Yes, your local skipper provides live commentary about wildlife, history, and landmarks throughout the cruise.

What wildlife might I see on this boat tour?

You may spot puffins, guillemots, grey seals, and other seabirds around Ireland’s Eye during your trip.

Is this boat tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join in prams or strollers; it’s suitable for all fitness levels.

Are life jackets provided on board?

Yes, life jackets are included for everyone on board during your cruise.

Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible; transportation options nearby also support accessibility needs.

How long does the Howth Cliffs & Ireland's Eye ferry last?

The cruise lasts approximately one hour along Howth Cliffs and around Ireland’s Eye.

Will I learn about local history on this tour?

Yes, your skipper shares stories about Howth Lighthouse, Bailey Lighthouse, Ireland’s Eye history—including famous events like the Kirwan murder.

What’s included

Your day includes a one-hour cruise aboard Howth’s Puffin ferry with an expert local crew providing live commentary about wildlife and history as you pass landmarks like Bailey Lighthouse and circle Ireland’s Eye. Life jackets are provided onboard for safety. The harbour is easily reached by DART train or bus from Dublin city centre before returning after your trip.