Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour in Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland

Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour

Outty Ranking 68 4.4 · 215 traveler reviews0.8 hoursFrom $29
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Outty Ranking

68/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.4/5

Based on 215 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour worth booking?

Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour is a 0.8-hour experience in Dublin, Ireland, from $29 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 215 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
68 / 100
Rating
4.4/5 (215)
Duration
0.8 hours
From
$29 per person

This tour explores the treasures of Ireland's Eye, Howth Harbour and Cliffs, and Dublin Bay. Take a trip around Ireland's Eye, taking in spectacular views of the Island, the Martello Tower, and the colony of seals and birds, including Puffins and Guillemots, which inhabit the area in Dublin Bay Biosphere. Get up close and personal with the flora and fauna on Ireland's Eye. The island is a Nature Reserve and a sanctuary for wildlife. Commentary by our expert captains on the history of the island, the wildlife, and the famous Kirwan murder on the island is provided. Plenty of photo opportunities. - Easily accessed by train (DART) or bus from Dublin City Centre - Lead by expert local knowledgable crew

What you get

    About this experience

    This tour explores the treasures of Ireland's Eye, Howth Harbour and Cliffs, and Dublin Bay. Take a trip around Ireland's Eye, taking in spectacular views of the Island, the Martello Tower, and the colony of seals and birds, including Puffins and Guillemots, which inhabit the area in Dublin Bay Biosphere. Get up close and personal with the flora and fauna on Ireland's Eye. The island is a Nature Reserve and a sanctuary for wildlife. Commentary by our expert captains on the history of the island, the wildlife, and the famous Kirwan murder on the island is provided. Plenty of photo opportunities. - Easily accessed by train (DART) or bus from Dublin City Centre - Lead by expert local knowledgable crew

    What's included

    Included

    • Government fees

    Not included

    • Snacks

    What you'll see and do

    1. Howth

      Our team will meet you at the top of the pontoon, check you in and bring you a wonderful boat trip out of Howth harbour, passing Howth Lighthouse, and on a beautiful tour of Ireland's Eye.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Howth Lighthouse

      As we headed out of the Howth Harbour from the pontoon, we will begin our commentary on the history of Howth Lighthouse, at the entance to the harbour.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. We pass bay Balscadden Bay, where we see some of the beautiful Howth Cliffs, and learn the history of Balscadden House and some of the famous people who lived there.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Ireland

      The main point of the tour - Ireland's Eye. Our tour goes around the island, with commentary about everything from the history of the island, the mysterious murder that took place there, and the flora and fauna.

      Pass by without stopping

    5. Ireland

      The Stack, Ireland's Eye The Stack is a beautiful sight, at the side of the island, where we can see many nesting birds. Our commentary tells you all about the nature reserve that is Ireland's Eye.

      Pass by without stopping

    6. Martello Tower

      On the other side of the island, we will see the Martello Tower, built in 1803 to defend against Napolean.

      Pass by without stopping

    7. Howth

      Howth Harbour We get a great view of Howth Head and Howth Harbour on our return!

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Dublin

    Wait at the black gate at the top of the pontoon. The pontoon is down the very end of the West Pier in Howth, opposite Aqua Restaurant.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Wait at the black gate at the top of the pontoon. The pontoon is down the very end of the West Pier in Howth, opposite Aqua Restaurant.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Howth Cliff Cruises

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour in Dublin, photo 2Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour in Dublin, photo 3Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour in Dublin, photo 4Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour in Dublin, photo 5Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour in Dublin, photo 6Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour in Dublin, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 212 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    212 verified traveler reviews for Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    150
    4 star
    25
    3 star
    10
    2 star
    16
    1 star
    11
    Sort
    Kevin_L · October 2026

    A Fine Boat Tour of Dublin Bay

    Our boat tour was quite enjoyable, as the weather was good, and our boat captain made sure that everyone could see the sights regardless of the side of the boat they were on. The taped narration was clear and helpful as well. The only was the tour could have been improved is if the captain had taken us a little further along the coast so that we could see the Summit and the Clift Walk from the water.

    Response from the operator: HI Kevin, thanks for joining us onboard.

    via Viator

    white_julia11 · October 2026

    Waste of money - over crowned and no Seals or Puffins

    You weren’t told any safety details before leaving the Harbour, too many people on the boat as unable to see the sea without heads, no seals or Puffins. If you have or in a wheelchair the ramp is steep, no help offered. You best to save your money and stand on the harbour path and see the seals from there.

    Response from the operator: HI - thank you for your feedback. If you would like to discuss further our team would be happy to assist you via howthcliffcruises@gmail.com.

    via Tripadvisor

    Nicole_N · September 2026

    Great boat ride!!

    Great boat ride - saw some seals and different shore birds!! Thank you for a great boat ride! I enjoyed photographing beautiful shore line and the wild life along the way!!

    Response from the operator: Delighted to hear you enjoyed your tour with Howth Cliff Cruises.

    via Viator

    Nicola_K · September 2026

    Worth the ride out of town!

    well worth a visit as a trip out of the city, the skipper was very helpful and informative and made sure everybody had a chance to see the woldfufe. Would highly recommend

    Response from the operator: Thanks for joining us onboard!

    via Viator

    Shufflingtheworld · September 2026

    Amazing trip and great views

    Great views, well worth doing!

    Response from the operator: Thanks for joining us onboard.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    0.8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    75
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Howth Cliff Cruises, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 73.1.

    See everything Howth Cliff Cruises runs

    Why this scores 68

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)59
    Review evidence (18% weight)65
    Booking momentum (14% weight)60
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)14
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Dublin.

    How much does Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $29 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Dublin usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 0.8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Dublin is not rushed.

    Is Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 215 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Dublin, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 0.8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour?

    +

    Around 75 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Dublin can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Dublin and add a light layer if any part of the 0.8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Dublin within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Dublin?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Dublin experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Dublin to Belfast Titanic Dunluce Castle Giants Causeway Tour, Dublin to Belfast Black Cab: Dunluce Castle and Giant's Causeway, Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Dublin?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Dublin?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour?

    +

    Included: Government fees. Not included: Snacks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour?

    +

    Wait at the black gate at the top of the pontoon. The pontoon is down the very end of the West Pier in Howth, opposite Aqua Restaurant. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour?

    +

    Across 215 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Ireland's Eye and Howth Coastal Boat Tour.

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