We know planning tours can be a huge undertaking – that’s why we’ve compiled a set of helpful steps for international visitors travelling from overseas.
Transport
Dublin Airport is located 15.79 km from Howth and to get to Howth with a transfer from Dublin Airport will take about 00 h 24 m.
The duration of the transfer may vary depending on the chosen vehicle and the traffic circumstances.
Below are an array of options for different transport means.
Taxi
To get to Howth from anywhere in Dublin by taxi, simply hail a cab or use an app to book a ride. In Ireland, the most popular apps are Freenow and Uber. You can also find taxi ranks throughout the city where you can easily pick up a taxi. Once in the taxi, provide the driver with the address of “West Pier, Howth”. The journey to Howth from Dublin should take around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Bus
To get to Howth by bus, take the H3 or 6 bus. See dublinbus.ie for more.
From the bus station: Take a left turn and head towards the West Pier. Continue down the pier right to the very end. The pontoon is opposite Aqua Restaurant.
Train
From the DART station: When you exit the station down the steps, turn left. After 50m take a left turn down unto the West Pier. Take a left turn and head towards the West Pier. Continue down the pier right to the very end. The pontoon is opposite Aqua Restaurant.
Coach
There is no coach parking on the West Pier. Please proceed down the West Pier for drop off only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the tours depart from?
All Howth tours depart from the Pontoon on the West Pier in Howth, opposite Aqua Restaurant. The eircode is D13H2V4.
The ferry from Dún Laoghaire to Howth, and the Dalkey Island Tour depart from the East Pier in Dún Laoghaire.
Are dogs allowed on board?
Yes absolutely, we welcome dogs on board once they are kept on a lead. Dogs are not allowed on the ferry to Ireland’s Eye as it is a protected bird sanctuary and are not permitted on the island.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, our boats are wheelchair accessible for manual wheelchairs only. Unfortunately landing on Ireland’s Eye is not wheelchair accessible.
When can I land on Ireland’s Eye?
Please ensure you book the direct ferry to the island if you wish to land. Landing on the island is at the discretion of the captain depending on weather conditions. If landing is not possible, we will give you the option to go on another boat tour.
Do you have to book in advance?
We do accept walk ons subject to availability in Howth, however, we strongly recommend booking online in advance. All tours from Dún Laoghaire must be booked in advance.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Just yourself and your booking confirmation! We do advise wearing suitable footwear and a jacket/rain jacket. Our vessels all have rain canopies and/or indoor cabins too.
What happens if the weather conditions are not suitable for sailing?
If conditions are not favourable for sailing, you will be notified by our team in advance and the tour will be rescheduled.
Can I bring a buggy?
Buggies can be left securely on the pontoon, and collected again at the end of the tour.
Do we have to wear life jackets all the time?
No, life Jackets are available for all passengers in case of emergency.
When and where can I see puffins?
Puffins nest on Ireland’s Eye from March – July. The best tour to see them is the Ireland’s Eye and Howth Coast Tour, we spot them mostly at the Cliffs at the back of the island where they nest. We cannot guarntee that you will spot them due to their nature, but we will do our best to point them out!