Come puffin spotting with us on a scenic boat tour of Ireland’s Eye!
Quick Details
Child (3-15 yrs): €15
Family of 4 (2 Adults & 2 Children): €70
Family of 5 (2 Adults & 3 Children): €80
Under 3s go free (no ticket needed). Dog friendly.
Puffin Boat Tour in Howth
Ireland’s Eye Boat Tour from Howth Harbour
Discover the beauty of Ireland’s Eye, Howth Cliffs, Balscadden Bay and Dublin Bay on an unforgettable coastal boat tour from Howth Harbour. Cruise along the spectacular waterline of Howth Head and Ireland’s Eye, getting close to dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, seabird colonies and the thriving marine wildlife of Dublin’s east coast.
Ireland’s Eye is a protected Nature Reserve, an EU habitat site and part of the UNESCO Dublin Bay Biosphere. This unspoilt island sanctuary is home to an incredible variety of wildlife and offers one of the best opportunities in Dublin to experience nature from the water.
Puffins, Seals & Seabirds
Our Ireland’s Eye boat tour is especially popular during puffin nesting season, when visitors may spot Atlantic puffins among the island’s famous seabird colonies. Keep an eye out for gannets, guillemots, cormorants, kittiwakes and gulls as your captain guides you around the island. Join our puffin boat tour in Howth, search for puffins from howth harbour.
You’ll also have the chance to see the local seal colony resting on the rocks and swimming through the waters around Ireland’s Eye and Howth Harbour.
Explore the Cliffs, Caves & Coastline of Howth
Experience the stunning scenery of Howth’s coastline from a unique perspective as we cruise past rugged cliffs, sea caves, hidden beaches and historic landmarks. Marvel at panoramic views of Lambay Island, Howth Head and Balscadden Bay while learning about the area’s fascinating history and wildlife.
One of the highlights of the tour is “The Stack”, the impressive freestanding rock at the northeastern corner of Ireland’s Eye, where large numbers of seabirds gather along the cliff faces.
Local Stories & Expert Guides
Our experienced captains provide live commentary throughout the journey, sharing local knowledge, maritime history and tales of the famous Kirwan murder connected to Ireland’s Eye. Sit back, relax and enjoy a memorable coastal adventure with knowledgeable local skippers who know these waters inside out.
Why Choose Our Ireland’s Eye Boat Tour?
- Scenic boat tour around Ireland’s Eye and Howth Cliffs
- Great chance to see puffins during nesting season
- Spot seals, seabirds and marine wildlife
- Explore cliffs, caves, coves and coastal scenery
- Learn about local history, legends and nature
- Departures from Howth Harbour, just outside Dublin
- Suitable for families, couples and visitors of all ages
Whether you’re visiting Dublin for the first time or looking for a unique outdoor experience in Howth, our Ireland’s Eye boat tour offers a spectacular way to connect with nature, wildlife and the dramatic beauty of Ireland’s east coast.
Tour Route
Itinerary
The Ireland’s Eye tour departing from West Pier in Howth is a thrilling adventure that showcases some of the most stunning natural beauty and interesting historical sites in the area.
As you depart from the harbour, you will be treated to gorgeous views of Howth Harbour and Howth Lighthouse. The tour then proceeds towards Howth Head, where you can admire the picturesque landscapes of the Nose of Howth and Balscadden Bay.
Heading towards Ireland’s Eye, you will learn about the notorious Kirwan murder that took place on the island. Keep your eyes peeled for seals basking on the rocks and the myriad of birds, including puffins and guillemots, that call The Stack home. The towering cliffs at the back of the island offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Next, we have a chance to get a close-up view of the Martello Tower on the island, as well as admire the stunning beaches, along with the ancient church ruins.
As you head back towards Howth, take in panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the Howth coastline. The tour concludes back at Howth Harbour, leaving you with memories of a memorable and informative trip to one of Ireland’s hidden gems.
Please keep in mind that the itinerary may change based on weather conditions for passenger safety.
Guidelines
Safety is paramount at all times and the master of the vessel may alter the route for the cruise in the case of unfavourable weather conditions.
Parking
Howth is a busy area so please factor in some time for traffic and locating parking. If you are running late, please call us +353 868459154 and let us know, you can come on the next tour if you miss the time slot originally booked.
Cancellation Policy
We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event.
On Tripadvisor
”Great tour, Mark as captain and guide was fab. Would recommend visiting. There are options to visit the island as well and would love to visit there too.
Kavish050321 June 2024
”A short tour with all of the nature, murder mystery and history you want. Impressive sights with clear narrations. Well worth the money
katehJ8425EX11 June 2024
”Such a lovely time had . The captain was very friendly and so informative . Leaned so much new things about the island. Looking forward to sharing this wonderful experience
angelquinn91417 May 2024
”It was AMAZING we got so see beautiful islands and wonderful birds and seals not to mention the tour speaker if you’re into history
LightPacker42879610 May 2024
”The views were amazing ,took awesome pictures and the captain even let us spin the wheel for a bit,would definitely recommend coming with them.
243nichitaa20 April 2024