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

Introduction

Our review of the Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye 1-hour Tour offers a snapshot of this popular Dublin-based boat cruise. For just over $26 per person, it promises a scenic 60-minute ride that highlights the natural beauty of the Irish coast, including Ireland’s Eye, the cliffs of Howth, and local seabird colonies. While it’s a quick experience, it packs in some really impressive views that make it a worthwhile short outing, especially if you’re craving a different perspective on Dublin’s maritime landscape.

What we particularly like about this tour is its relaxed pace combined with the opportunity to enjoy a drink from the onboard bar while taking in the scenery. It’s a simple, no-fuss way to add a touch of maritime charm to your Dublin trip. However, one potential drawback, as some reviews point out, is that the boat doesn’t get very close to Ireland’s Eye, which might leave those hoping for more intimate wildlife encounters a little disappointed. This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a quick, scenic, and affordable coastal excursion—perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see some of Ireland’s coastal highlights.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Howth’s cliffs, Ireland’s Eye, and nearby islands.
• Affordable price point makes it accessible for most travelers.
• Limited proximity to Ireland’s Eye and its wildlife, which may disappoint wildlife enthusiasts.
• Onboard WiFi and restroom facilities add comfort during the ride.
• The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather may cause cancellations.
• Suitable for all ages, with child rates available when sharing with adults.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Starting Point: Howth Harbour

The tour kicks off from the West Pier/W Pier in Howth Demesne, a charming fishing village just north of Dublin. This area itself offers a picturesque setting, with bustling cafes, seafood restaurants, and scenic walking paths. Arriving here, you’ll appreciate the convenience of nearby public transportation, making access straightforward without the hassle of parking—though a note for those driving: no on-site parking is available, so plan ahead.

The Cruise: What to Expect

Once aboard the St Bridget, a vessel designed for comfort and visibility, guests are set for a roughly 60-minute journey. The boat offers WiFi, which can be handy if you want to share pictures or check the weather, and a restroom onboard—important details for a tour of this length. The experience is relaxed, with the ease of enjoying a drink or coffee from the onboard bar while sailing. It’s a low-key way to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The cruise begins with a gentle departure from Howth Harbour, allowing you to soak in the lively maritime atmosphere. As the boat heads north, you’ll have your first glimpses of the seabird colonies on Ireland’s Eye, along with its characteristic rocky terrain. The ship then heads towards the island, offering views of the bird and seal populations that inhabit the area.

Ireland’s Eye: The Wildlife & Views

Ireland’s Eye is known for its seabird colonies and seal sightings. However, some reviewers, like Esther Berther, mention that the boat doesn’t go very close to the island. She pointed out, “the boat did not sail close enough to the island, and the birds appeared very small.” This suggests that if wildlife viewing is a priority, this cruise might not satisfy your desire for close-up encounters.

Nevertheless, from the boat, you’ll get a good overview of the island’s rugged coastline. The view extends further north to Malahide and Lambay Island, providing a broad perspective of the Dublin coastline.

The Cliffs of Howth

After Ireland’s Eye, the boat turns south-east towards Howth’s iconic cliffs. This part of the cruise offers a different scenic angle—imagine towering cliffs, crashing waves below, and perhaps some seabirds riding the wind high above. The cliffs are a highlight for many visitors, offering a sense of rugged Irish coastlines that are postcard-perfect.

The Atmosphere Onboard

The onboard bar is a plus, especially if you enjoy sipping a glass of wine or a hot coffee while watching the scenery pass by. The experience is casual, and the small group size (max of 96 travelers) allows for a comfortable environment. The entire experience is designed to be relaxing rather than action-packed, making it ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration & Timing

The cruise lasts about an hour, with the departure scheduled at 2:15 pm. While quick, the timing suits travelers who want a brief but high-impact scenic experience. Since most reviews note that the tour is booked roughly 12 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve early—especially in peak seasons.

Price & Value

At around $26.71 per person, this cruise offers good value. It’s an affordable way to enjoy spectacular coastal views without the need for a full day trip or expensive excursions. Keep in mind that snacks and drinks are not included but are available onboard, so if you want to indulge, you should budget a little extra.

Accessibility & Weather

The tour is accessible for service animals and most travelers, including children (with child rates applying when sharing with adults). Weather conditions can impact the experience—if it’s rainy, windy, or foggy, the views may be obscured, or the tour could be canceled, with full refunds offered if canceled due to poor weather.

Caveats & What to Expect

While the views are impressive, some reviewers note that the boat doesn’t get very close to Ireland’s Eye, limiting wildlife viewing opportunities. If your main focus is seabird or seal watching, you might find this disappointing. Also, parking isn’t provided, so plan to use public transport or arrive early to find nearby parking.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a quick, scenic escape from Dublin, especially those who enjoy relaxed boat rides with beautiful views. It’s excellent for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a gentle introduction to Ireland’s coast without overcommitting time or money. Wildlife enthusiasts might want to temper expectations, given the limited proximity to Ireland’s Eye. It’s also great for those who appreciate the idea of sipping wine or coffee as the Irish landscape unfolds around them.

Final Thoughts

The Howth Cliffs & Ireland’s Eye 1-hour Tour offers a straightforward and affordable way to add a maritime element to your Irish adventure. Its main draws are the stunning coastal vistas, the chance to see Ireland’s Eye from a distance, and the relaxed onboard atmosphere. While it may not satisfy wildlife lovers craving close encounters or those seeking a more adventurous experience, it makes for a lovely, easygoing outing—especially if you’re short on time but eager for Ireland’s scenic beauty.

This tour provides good value for the price and is well-suited for travelers who want to enjoy a comfortable, scenic cruise with minimal fuss. Just remember to dress appropriately for weather and book in advance to secure your spot.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Does the cruise run in bad weather? The tour operates in different weather conditions, but if weather conditions are poor, the cruise may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I see Ireland’s Eye up close? Not really. The boat does not sail very close to the island, so wildlife sightings—like birds and seals—may be limited or viewed from afar.

Are snacks and drinks included? No, but drinks and snacks are available for purchase onboard at the snack bar.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 60 minutes.

Where do I meet for the tour? The meeting point is West Pier/W Pier in Howth Demesne, Dublin.

Is there parking nearby? Parking isn’t available at the pier, but public parking is close by.

How early should I book? It’s recommended to book at least 12 days in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues? The data doesn’t specify, but since it’s a boat cruise, accessibility may vary. Contact the provider for specific concerns.

What’s the best time of day to take this tour? The scheduled departure is at 2:15 pm, which offers ample daylight for scenic views and photos.

To sum it up, this cruise from Howth offers a gentle, scenic snapshot of Ireland’s coast, perfect for those wanting a quick, affordable taste of the sea and cliffs. While it might not satisfy wildlife enthusiasts or those seeking close encounters, it provides a relaxed, picturesque experience that complements any Dublin visit. Ideal for casual travelers, families, or anyone looking to enjoy Ireland’s natural beauty from a different vantage point.