Howth to Ireland’s Eye Ferry: Island Walks & Birdwatching Return

Summary

Ferry from Howth to Ireland’s Eye for wild walks and sea birds

You’ll hop on a ferry from Howth and cross over to Ireland’s Eye with salty air in your hair and only seabirds for company. Walk freely around grassy paths, climb up to an old Martello tower, and maybe spot gannets or puffins if you’re lucky. The return ferry brings you back after time that somehow feels slower out there.

What’s the experience like?

I still laugh thinking about how quickly everything changed—one minute we were squeezing past crowds at the Howth pier, dodging seagulls eyeing our chips, and then suddenly it was just us and the low hum of the ferry engine heading toward Ireland’s Eye. The water was choppier than I’d expected, salty spray catching my face (and my glasses, which I should’ve cleaned before trying to spot puffins). Our skipper, Tomás, pointed out the Martello tower on the island before we even docked—said it’s been standing there since Napoleon times. He seemed proud of that. I liked that he didn’t rush us with facts, just let the boat ride be its own quiet thing.

Landing on Ireland’s Eye felt sort of like stepping into a painting—windy, but not cold, and this weird mix of grassy smell and seaweed. There weren’t any signs or fences; you just wander. We trailed behind a couple with binoculars who kept whispering “gannet” every few minutes. I tried to get a closer look at the birds nesting on those craggy cliffs but honestly, half the time I was distracted by how blue everything looked in the late morning light. The walk up to the Martello tower is a bit uneven—my left shoe got muddy in a patch I thought was dry (classic). Didn’t matter though. The quiet out there is something else—you hear gulls arguing overhead and nothing else for long stretches.

I’d packed a sandwich but ended up just sitting near the west-facing beach watching someone braver than me swim in that clear water (the kind of cold you feel in your teeth). It’s funny how close Howth looks from here but also far away enough that you forget about all those busy seafood restaurants for an hour or two. On the way back, Tomás asked if we’d seen any puffins—I said maybe, but honestly I’m not sure if what I saw was a cormorant or just wishful thinking. Either way, I keep thinking about that quiet walk back down to the boat, shoes squelching a little with every step.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ferry trip and island exploration

• Depart from Howth pontoon
• Enjoy views of Howth Head cliffs
• Arrive at Ireland's Eye island
• Explore the island's rugged beauty
• Visit the ancient Martello tower
• Stroll around the island
• Watch birds like puffins and gannets
• Swim at the west-facing beach
• Return to Howth by ferry

Top questions

How long is the ferry ride from Howth to Ireland's Eye?

The ferry takes about 20 minutes each way between Howth and Ireland's Eye.

Is there a guide included on the Ireland's Eye tour?

No formal guide is included; however, local skippers may share some information during the ferry ride.

Can I swim at Ireland's Eye?

Yes, there is a west-facing beach where visitors can swim in clear waters if they wish.

What wildlife can be seen on Ireland's Eye?

You may see puffins, gannets, cormorants, and other seabirds while exploring the island.

Are return tickets included for the ferry?

Yes, your booking includes both direct shuttle ferry rides—outbound and return—from Howth.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby in Howth.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

No, it is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to uneven terrain.

What’s included

Your day includes direct shuttle ferry service from Howth to Ireland’s Eye and back again—a return ticket sorted so you don’t have to think about logistics once you’re out exploring grassy trails or watching seabirds wheel overhead.