Howth – Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye 1 hour Tour

If you’re looking to enjoy a short but scenic Irish adventure, the Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye 1-hour cruise offers a pleasant glimpse of Dublin’s northern coast. For just over $26, you get a relaxing boat ride departing from the picturesque Howth Harbour, offering views of seal and bird colonies, the cliffs, and neighboring islands like Lambay and Malahide. The tour operates on the St Bridget, and the entire experience is designed to be quick, accessible, and quite charming.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with the relaxed pace of a short cruise — perfect for a mid-afternoon break or a quick introduction to Ireland’s rugged coastline. The on-board bar offering coffee and wine adds a cozy touch, making it feel more like a casual outing than a formal tour. Another highlight is the opportunity to spot wildlife — seals lounging on the rocks and seabirds soaring overhead — which makes this cruise feel like a genuine nature encounter.

One possible drawback is that, according to some travelers, the boat doesn’t sail very close to Ireland’s Eye, meaning the vantage point might be limited for those eager to get a close-up view of the island or the seals. Weather can also be a factor here; since the tour operates in various conditions, you’ll want to dress warmly and prepare for the elements. This cruise is best suited for those who appreciate scenic views over up-close wildlife encounters and don’t mind a brief, leisurely ride.

This experience is ideal for visitors seeking a relaxed, scenic overview of Dublin’s coast and a taste of Ireland’s marine life, especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable snapshot of the area. It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy casual sightseeing with the option to sip a drink while enjoying the view.

Key Points

• Short and scenic: Perfect for a quick taste of Ireland’s coastline.
• Wildlife: Opportunities to see seals and seabirds.
• Relaxed atmosphere: On-board bar and WiFi enhance the experience.
• Limited proximity: Some reviews note the boat doesn’t sail very close to Ireland’s Eye.
• Weather-dependent: Be prepared for changing conditions.
• Affordable: At just over $26, it offers good value for the views.

In-Depth Review of the Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye 1-Hour Tour

Location and Departure Point

The tour begins at West Pier W Pier in Howth Demesne, a charming coastal village just north of Dublin. We love how accessible it is via public transportation; the pier is close to Dublin’s city transit options, making it easy to reach without a car. The meeting time is 2:15 pm, giving enough room for a relaxed afternoon cruise.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The main highlight is the one-hour cruise on board the St Bridget ferry, which departs from Howth Harbour, a lively and picturesque spot with plenty of seaside cafes and shops. Once underway, the crew guides you past the Ireland’s Eye, an uninhabited island home to a seabird colony and seals lounging on rocks.

Most travelers will appreciate the views heading north toward Malahide and Lambay Island. These are classic Irish coastlines, with the rugged cliffs and the distant outline of the islands providing a panoramic backdrop. As you sail south-east toward the cliffs of Howth, you’ll get a sense of the area’s natural beauty, with the cliffs offering a dramatic contrast to the water.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

The seals, often seen basking on rocks around Ireland’s Eye, are a favorite sight for many. According to one review, though, some passengers felt disappointed that the boat didn’t sail closer to the island or the seals, noting that “you saw the birds only very small.” This points to a common challenge in short cruises — the need for balance between a relaxing ride and a close-up wildlife experience.

Birdwatchers will enjoy the seabird colonies, with the opportunity to see various seabirds flying overhead or resting on the island. The cliffs themselves, with views stretching along the coast, provide excellent photo opportunities, especially if the weather is clear.

Onboard Experience: Comfort and Convenience

The vessel offers restrooms and WiFi, making the ride comfortable and somewhat modern. The on-board bar lets you grab a coffee or a glass of wine, which we find adds a touch of leisure to the experience. It’s a casual outing, so bringing along a jacket or layers is advised, especially given Ireland’s changeable weather.

Pricing and Value

At $26.71 per person, this cruise is quite affordable considering the views, wildlife, and relaxing atmosphere. However, since snacks and drinks are not included, you might want to bring your own or purchase something at the pier beforehand. Keep in mind that parking isn’t provided; public parking nearby makes it manageable, but if you’re traveling in peak season, it’s worth arriving early.

The Not-So-Perfect Aspects

Some reviews mention that the boat doesn’t sail very close to Ireland’s Eye or the seals, which could be disappointing if you’re eager for close-up wildlife sightings. Weather can also influence the experience; Ireland’s coastlines are often foggy or windy, so dressing appropriately is essential.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for those wanting a quick, scenic overview of Dublin’s coast with minimal fuss. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing outing that combines nature and views without a lengthy commitment. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager for intimate encounters or close-up views, you might find this cruise somewhat limited.

The Sum Up: Is This Cruise Worth It?

For travelers who appreciate calm, effortless sightseeing with stunning coastal vistas, this 1-hour cruise from Howth to Ireland’s Eye offers an enjoyable escape. The price is reasonable, and the opportunity to see seals and seabirds in their natural environment adds authentic charm to the experience. While it might not satisfy those craving close-up wildlife encounters or nearer views of the island, it’s a lovely way to appreciate Ireland’s rugged coastline in a short amount of time.

If your goal is to relax with a sip of wine and stunning views, and you’re prepared for Ireland’s unpredictable weather, this tour could be a memorable addition to your Dublin trip. Just remember to dress warmly and manage your expectations regarding how close you’ll get to the island and the wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this cruise?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it perfect for a quick scenic break.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from West Pier W Pier in Howth Demesne, a charming coastal village easily accessible by public transportation.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the ferry ride, restroom access, and WiFi on board.

Are snacks and drinks included?
No, but there is an on-board snack bar where you can purchase coffee, wine, and other drinks.

Is parking available?
Parking isn’t provided at the pier, but public parking nearby makes it manageable.

What should I wear?
Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring waterproofs just in case.

Can I see wildlife?
Yes, you might see seals lounging on rocks near Ireland’s Eye and seabirds flying overhead, although some find the boat doesn’t sail very close for detailed wildlife viewing.

What is the best time to go?
The tour operates in various weather conditions, so check the forecast and dress accordingly. The departure time is 2:15 pm.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate. The tour is family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy scenic boat rides.

Planning a visit to Dublin that includes a splash of the sea? This Howth cruise offers a relaxed, scenic, and affordable way to soak in Ireland’s coastal beauty — perfect for a short break or a light introduction to the area.