Howth: Coastal Boat Tour to Ireland’s Eye & Cliffs, Wildlife

Summary

Howth coastal boat trip with wildlife close-ups and island views

You’ll ride a small boat from Howth harbour with a local skipper, get close to seals and seabird colonies around Ireland’s Eye island, hear stories about the cliffs and caves, and catch glimpses of wild marine life along Dublin Bay. Expect salty air, local music drifting over the water, and real moments that stick with you long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salt in the air — that sharp, clean smell you only get right by the sea. We’d just stepped onto the little boat at Howth harbour, and our skipper (I think his name was Tom?) grinned like he’d seen this all before. The water looked almost oily-smooth at first but then you spot these flashes of white where gulls dive. Someone next to me pointed out a seal bobbing near the pier — honestly, it looked as curious about us as we were about it.

As we got closer to Ireland’s Eye, Tom started telling stories about shipwrecks and old smugglers. He had this way of pausing mid-sentence when a puffin zipped past or when the cliffs caught the light just right. I tried snapping photos but mostly ended up just staring — there’s something about seeing those birds up close, gannets and guillemots packed onto ledges, all squawking over each other. The music playing was some local Irish tune I didn’t know; it made everything feel kind of timeless. I kept thinking how weirdly small you feel out there.

The whole Howth coastal boat tour lasted maybe 50 minutes? It felt shorter somehow. There was a moment where everyone went quiet as we drifted near a cave — just the slap of water and that briny smell again. Coming back into harbour, I could already smell fish frying from one of those restaurants along the pier (I’m still annoyed I didn’t leave room for lunch). So yeah, if you’re in Dublin and want something that feels properly alive — not staged — this is it. The wind’ll mess your hair up but you won’t care.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Howth Coastal Boat Tour and Wildlife Viewing

• Depart from Howth Harbour
• View Howth Cliffs and Ireland's Eye
• Spot seabirds and marine life
• Photograph seal colony near Ireland's Eye
• Listen to skipper commentary and Irish music
• Return to Howth Harbour

Top questions

How long does the Howth coastal boat tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes from start to finish.

Does the tour include live commentary?

Yes, your skipper provides live commentary during the trip.

Can infants or small children join the boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join and may ride in a pram or stroller.

Will I see wildlife like seals or puffins?

You have good chances to spot seals near Howth harbour and seabirds such as puffins around Ireland's Eye.

Is public transportation available to Howth Harbour?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for easy access to Howth Harbour.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this coastal boat tour.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

No lunch is included; however, there are seafood restaurants along Howth pier after your return.

How far is Howth from Dublin city centre?

The journey from Dublin city centre to Howth takes about 40 minutes.

What’s included

Your ticket covers all fees and taxes for the Howth coastal boat tour itself—just show up at the harbour ready for sea air and local stories before heading off for your own lunch if you fancy it afterwards.