Posted 4.6.25

The 7 Best Boat Tours in Dublin 2025

Taking a boat tour is one of the most delightful ways to explore Dublin. These shorttrips offer both tourists and locals a fresh and unique perspective of the city. As you glide along the water, you'll get to enjoy Dublin's stunning scenery, fascinating wildlife, and rich history, all from a charming vantage point.

River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise 

The River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise is a 45-minute journey along the River Liffey. The trip offers a chance to learn about the vast history of Dublin City, from the arrival of Vikings to recent Dublin modern day’s development. The River Liffey sightseeing cruise will sail past historic Dublin landmarks including Custom House and Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship and even under the iconic Ha’penny Bridge.

1. Dublin Bay Cruise to Howth 

The Dublin Bay Cruise to Howth is an enchanting tour past iconic buildings and structures including the Poolbeg Lighthouse, the Convention Centre, Dun Laoghaire Harbour, Ireland’s Eye and so much more. The tour sets sail at Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, departing at 11am and lasting 150 minutes. If you are into photography or are just a nature lover, then this is for you as you are bound to see the beauty of nature from a unique view.

2. Dublin Bay Cruise to Dun Laoghaire 

The Dublin Bay Cruise to Dun Laoghaire is a terrific way to enjoy the scenic views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea. Departing at 11am from Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, the trip lasts 60 minutes, allowing you a chance to see landmarks such as the East Link Bridge, Dalkey Island, the Poolbeg Lighthouse and the Martello Towers used during the Napoleonic wars. Stopping in Dun Laoghaire, you can explore the town and take a stroll along the pier. This is a good way to spend some quality time with your loved ones while appreciating some of the best scenic views Dublin has to offer!

3. Howth Coastal Boat Tour 

This 60-minute tour cruises the water in the Dublin Bay Biosphere near Howth. The Howth Coastal Boat Tour is a more intimate affair welcoming a maximum of 11 passengers at a time. The trip will take you along the coastal cliffs to see Howth cliffs and Ireland’s Eye, as the captain tells stories about the history of the peninsula. This tour is sure to take you along some of the dramatic cliffs and even hidden caves that can be seen only from the sea! Keep your eyes peeled as you will no doubt see guillemots, puffins, seals and so much more.

4. Howth Cliffs and Ireland's Eye Boat Cruise 

The Howth Cliffs and Ireland’s Eye boat cruise provides passengers with a round-trip cruise leaving from Howth west pier and lasting 60 minutes. During this Dublin boat trip, you will observe the seal colonies at Ireland’s Eye and take in the breathtaking views as you relax with a coffee or a glass of wine from the bar. Psst… this location is renowned as a birdwatcher's paradise, and offers a unique experience for visitors, especially those accompanied by kids.

5. Howth Sunset Cruise 

Howth Sunset Cruise gives passengers a chance to experience Howth like never before. The cruise allows you to take in the beautiful and tranquil scenery of Howth Harbour, Howth Cliffs and Ireland’s Eye as the sun is setting. The Howth Sunset Cruise offers one of the most romantic sunset views over Dublin Bay and is often accompanied by dolphins. The tour lasts 60 minutes and offers live commentary from an expert Captain regarding the hidden history of Howth.

6. Dalkey Island Tours 

Setting sail from Dun Laoghaire, the Dalkey Island tour lasts 60 minutes. The tour starts by heading south past James Joyce Martello Tower, the famous forty-foot, Bullock Harbour, Dalkey Island and Collimore Harbour before viewing Sorrento Point, Killiney Bay and then returning to Dun Laoghaire. Along the way, you may also see a pod of dolphins joining in on the trip. This is best suited for individuals who are history enthusiasts, and families and couples!

7. Dublin Bay history and Wildlife Tours 

The Dublin Bay History and Wildlife Tour is a boat tour within Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere. During the tour you will witness the beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife and breathtaking mansions, all while hearing all about the rich history of Dublin Bay. The tour will set sail from Dun Laoghaire aboard ‘Billy Goat’ a gold standard rib. And if you are looking for information from the experts then look no further as this tour often features live commentary from marine biologists or historians, giving deeper insight into Dublin’s marine heritage.

1. Sail and Dine Cruises 

La Peniche is a barge that offers dinner cruises along the historic Grand Canal. A scenic location, La Peniche offers a variety of dishes with locally sourced products and ingredients, cooked fresh on board every day. Lasting 1 hour to 1 and half hours, the cruise takes you along the canal, where you can soak in the unique history and heritage, while you relax and enjoy a romantic dinner.

2. Grand Canal Dinner Restaurant Boat Trip

Wine and dine in style as you cruise along the beautiful Grand Canal, on board the Canal Boat Restaurant. €70 per person, the luxurious canal barge takes you along the Grand Canal while you enjoy a 3-course meal accompanied by a glass of wine or beer. This is an excellent way to celebrate your anniversary and enjoy a romantic dinner!

3. Viking Splash Tours 

Roam around Dublin City on the unmissable Viking Splash Tour. Experience Dublin’s most unique sightseeing experience via land and water. The Viking Splash Tour takes you around Dublin on an old WW2 amphibious DUKWs that transitions from land to water, while the guide provides a fun and informative history of Dublin suitable for all age groups and perfect for families and children, taking in sights such as Georgian

Dublin, Cathedrals, and the Grand Canal basin to see the iconic U2 studios. Make your trip unforgettable with Maldron! Enjoy a comfortable stay at Maldron Hotel Kevin Street, conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from the location. Experience the best of the city while relaxing in style at our hotel!

Tips to choose your Boat Trips in Dublin

Choosing a boat trip depends on a few factors that must be considered before booking.

· Location: Are you in the city or countryside

· Duration: Tours can range from about 30 minutes to a few hours. Shorter trips are ideal if you have a tight schedule, while longer ones provide you with more immersive experience.

· Check time of the day: While boat tours are usually during daytime, there also are sunset cruises.

· Mind the weather: Irish weather can change quickly—bring a raincoat or windbreaker. Some cruises may be cancelled in poor weather, so check cancellation policies.

· Departure points/location: Ensure the door is easy to get to. River cruises leave from the city center, while Howth or Dún Laoghaire tours need a bit of travel.

· Type of boat tour: Are you more interested in viewing the beautiful and breathtaking coastal scenery Dublin has to offer or would you prefer a tour that involves more historical and city-based commentary. It is important to ensure you consider these factors to choose the best boat trip for you. Here’s an additional tip for you; You might want to look for cruises with open decks and flexible seating, if you’re keen on snapping cliffs, wildlife, or sunsets.