The Ha'penny Bridge arching gracefully over the River Liffey in Dublin, Ireland, on a day with partial cloud cover. The Victorian-era pedestrian bridge is captured in full view, with its white intricate railings and lampposts, connecting the lively streets lined with colorful buildings and commercial establishments.
|

10 Best Boat Tours in Dublin (From a Local!) (2024)

ByTamar

Are you looking into boat tours in Dublin, Ireland, but need help finding the best one?

I can help!

I live in Dublin, and in an effort to learn everything I can about my adopted city, I’ve taken most of the boat tours in the city. When friends or family visited, I would often take them on one of the many Dublin boat tours as well.

Most tours last 1-2 hours and can be an affordable way to spend an afternoon. You’ll learn about the history of Dublin and see the city from a unique perspective.

So, I’m sharing my first-hand account of the top boat tours Dublin offers. By the end of this post, you’ll be able to pick the one that’s perfect for you!

Please note this post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my Privacy Policy for more information.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Boat Tours in Dublin

#1 TOP Pick
Aerial view of the 'Dublin Bay Cruises' vessel, a contender for the best boat Dublin boat tour, cutting through calm waters with its white and blue exterior prominently displayed.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Dublin Bay Cruise to Howth

✔️ See Poolbeg lighthouse and Dublin Port from the water

✔️ Informational onboard guide

⤷ Book it!
#2 Pick
A vibrant red tour boat glides under the iconic Ha'penny Bridge on the River Liffey, offering a picturesque experience often ranked as the best boat Dublin boat tour, set against a backdrop of historic Georgian architecture

Sightseeing Cruise on the River Liffey

✔️ Explore Dublin City from the water

✔️ Funny live guides

⤷ Book it!
#3 Pick
The 'Dublin Bay Cruises' boat serenely floats on glass-like water, reflecting its name and form, a prime choice for the best boat Dublin boat tour, under a clear sky.

Dublin Bay Cruise to Dun Laoghaire

✔️ See Dublin and Dun Laoghaire from the water

✔️ Family-friendly tour

⤷ Book it!

10 Best Boat Tours in Dublin

Poolbeg Lighthouse, a small red lighthouse at the end of a stone breakwater in Dublin harbour.
Poolbeg Lighthouse, seen from the Dublin Bay Cruise to Howth.

1. Dublin Bay Cruise to Howth

⭐4.5/5 (85+ Reviews)

The Dublin Bay Cruise to Howth is the best boat tour in Dublin because it takes you around Dublin Bay, sailing first to Dun Laoghaire and ultimately to Howth.

I’ve taken this boat cruise twice and had great experiences both times. I’ve even brought visitors on board – that’s how much I recommend this tour!

You’ll cruise under the East Link Bridge before passing Dublin Port and Poolbeg Lighthouse. While you sail, a live guide narrates the sights you’re passing and provides an overview of Dublin’s history.

The boat only takes you one way, so you’ll need to take the DART from Howth back to Dublin City. Thankfully, they offer a discounted train ticket for boat passengers!

This tour is great for families with children of all ages (buggies are allowed on board). 

This popular boat tour only departs once a day, so reserving tickets in advance is a must!

“What a lovely experience! Fabulous way to see Dublin from a different angle. Staff were very pleasant. I would highly recommend.” – Sinead P.

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 120 passengers max
  • Tour Length – 150 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – Dublin Bay Cruises

Check Prices and Availability!

A young child with short hair gazes out of a boat window at the Custom House across the River Liffey in Dublin, with the building's prominent dome and classical architecture highlighted against an overcast sky.
On board the Sightseeing Cruise on the River Liffey.

2. Sightseeing Cruise on the River Liffey

⭐4.5/5 (400+ Reviews)

Prefer a boat tour through Dublin City Center? This Sightseeing Cruise on the River Liffey takes you right into the center city.

The best part is the guide, who shares funny anecdotes about the famous Dublin landmarks you pass dotted with some local humor. You’ll pass under the Ha’Penny Bridge and past the Custom House and Dublin’s Docklands.

What’s great about this tour is that it only lasts 45 minutes, so afterward you’ll have plenty of time to explore Dublin City on foot!

I took this tour with my two kids, and they loved it. They enjoyed seeing the city from the water and passing underneath the bridges. They also thought the guides were hilarious and were still laughing at their jokes days later!

“First thing we did as an introduction to Dublin. Very informative and great views from the boat. The guides explain a lot of former and current history of the city.” – Lisa P.

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 22 people max
  • Tour Length –  45 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – Dublin Discovered Boat Tour

Check Prices and Availability!

Passengers aboard a Dublin Bay cruise boat, with the iconic Samuel Beckett Bridge in the background. The Irish flag flutters atop the boat's mast, set against a backdrop of partly cloudy skies, while a photographer captures the moment, illustrating a popular tourist activity in Dublin.
On board the Dublin Bay Cruise before departing for Dun Laoghaire.

3. Dublin Bay Cruise to Dun Laoghaire

⭐4.5/5 (300+ Reviews)

If you want to see Dublin Harbor from the sea but don’t want to spend all day on the water, then the Dublin Bay Cruise to Dun Laoghaire is the tour for you.

Once on board, you’ll have live narration of the port, harbor, and Dublin history. You’ll see the Poolbeg chimneys and lighthouse from the water on your way out of Dublin.

The tour drops you off in Dun Laoghaire, where you can spend the afternoon or catch the train back up to Dublin.

I think this tour is perfect if you want to explore Dun Laoghaire, a charming seaside town that’s a quick day trip from Dublin. For a real local experience, be sure to grab an Original 99 (with a flake!) from Teddy’s Ice Cream on the pier.

“Five stars all the way. Lovely crew, very friendly and efficient. The boat was great and the tour very enjoyable. The kids thoroughly enjoyed it. Highly recommend!” – Jenni B.

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 120 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  60 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – Dublin Bay Cruises

Check Prices and Availability!

A tour boat is nestled between rugged, lichen-covered rocks at a docking area on Ireland's Eye, under a sky filled with soft clouds. The serene sea extends into the horizon, capturing the tranquil and adventurous essence of the island's boat tours.
Ireland’s Eye Ferry docked on the island.

4. Howth Coastal 1 Hour Boat Tour

⭐5/5 (30+ Reviews)

Imagine exploring Dublin’s sea caves and marine environment from a small fishing boat. Not only is it a unique way to see the biodiversity of the area, but it’s also a great family-friendly Dublin boat tour.

Once on board the vessel, you’ll get back to nature exploring sea caves along the walls of Howth Cliffs and Ireland’s Eye. You’ll get respectfully close to the local seal colony, and may even see puffins and other migratory birds (depending on the season).

The best part is that, because it’s a small group boat tour, you won’t have to fight off other tourists to get a great view of the perfect photo. The maximum number of people on each boat tour is 11.

If you’re a nature lover and animal enthusiast traveling to Dublin, this is a great way to spend an hour on the water!

“We had such a great time on this tour! You hear a lot of Irish history dating back 10,000 years ago, feel the spray of the sea, and get to hear some famous Irish music! Shane is such a fun captain and you get to see several islands. We even saw a rainbow on our trip!” – Julianna C.

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 11 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  60 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – Ireland’s Eye Ferries

Check Prices and Availability!

A smiling woman, the author, with dark hair, wearing a black sweater, is on board the Ireland's Eye Ferry, embracing her two young children whose faces are covered by heart emojis for privacy. They're near the ferry's railing with a glimpse of the calm sea and the coastline in the distance, capturing a family moment on a coastal excursion.
On board the Howth Cliff Cruise.

5. Howth Cliff Cruise

⭐4.5/5 (100+ Reviews)

If you want to leave the bustle of the city behind and see some of Ireland’s dramatic natural seascapes, then Howth Cliff Cruise is for you!

On this one-hour cruise, you’ll see the Irish coastline just as the first Vikings did — from the sea!

Relax onboard as your captain guides you past tall sea cliffs, pointing out wildlife along the way. You’ll also pass up close to Bailey Lighthouse and Ireland’s Eye. Wildlife enthusiasts should come prepared with binoculars to get the best views of all the animals you’ll spot along the way.

The best part of this cruise is that you’ll get to see the Howth Cliffs up close, without breaking a sweat on the hike. It’s ideal for anyone with mobility issues who wants a chance to appreciate the Irish coastline.

“We had a wonderful time on this boat ride to the Cliffs. The two captions of the boat were outstanding! Courteous, Friendly, and Pleasantly Fun. This experience was one of the highlights of our trip. Thank You.” — Kathleen H.

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 40 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  60 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – Howth Cliff Cruises

Check Prices and Availability!

river liffey in Dublin with bridge spanning across it
Some of the bridges you’ll pass under on the Music Under the Bridge Kayaking Tour.

6. Dublin Music Under the Bridge Kayaking Tour

⭐4.7/5 (50+ Reviews)

Imagine listening to some live Irish music, while also kayaking under the bridges of the River Liffey! The Dublin Music Under the Bridge Kayaking Tour lets you do just that!

This is one of the most unique boat tours in Dublin. This tour is ideal for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path Dublin experience.

You’ll sit in kayaks and paddle along the river, and local musicians will serenade you under each bring!

This tour is great for music lovers or stag and hen parties. The lively atmosphere and great music will have everyone singing along!

“Beautiful night. The musicians were magical and the acoustics under the bridges were awesome. Such a beautiful view of the city and the lit bridges from the river. Our host was friendly and kind. Wonderful activity that I highly recommend.” — Sheri

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 20 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  2.5 hours
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – City Kayaking Dublin

Check Prices and Availability!

The Howth Lighthouse stands prominently on a grassy headland, overlooking the sea with its white and red structure providing a stark contrast to the overcast sky. Jagged rocks line the water's edge, and the calm sea reflects the grey tones of the sky, capturing the peaceful yet rugged coastal landscape.
The Howth Lighthouse, as seen from the boat cruise.

7. Howth Sunset Cruise

⭐4.4/5 (30+ Reviews)

Imagine cuddling up next to your sweetheart while sailing through the harbor during golden hour. Not only is it a unique way to spend the evening, but it is also one of the best date night ideas in Dublin!

Once you board the boat, your captain will guide you out of Howth Harbor toward Dublin Bay and share some interesting insights about the local wildlife along the way.

It does get chilly on the water, but if you haven’t packed enough layers the crew has blankets on hand to warm you up.

“We did the sunset cruise with Brian and it was fabulous! We went out along the cliffs and had views all the way into Dublin Bay. Coming back to Ireland’s Eye and looking up to Malahide and watching the sun set was spectacular and we had just the right amount of commentary and information from Brian and crew. We did the 8.45 pm cruise which was perfect for June. Well worth the money and would highly recommend!” – Tasha T.

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 25 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  60 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – Howth Cliff Cruises

Check Prices and Availability!

A red sightseeing boat cruises along the River Liffey in Dublin, passing under an arched stone bridge. The city's dynamic architecture, including a distinctive round-topped building and modern skyscrapers, frames the riverbanks, while several seagulls glide over the water, adding life to this urban scene.
Sightseeing boat on the River Liffey. Photo by Jean Vella via Unsplash.

8. City Sightseeing Dublin River Cruise

⭐4/5 (30+ Reviews)

If you want to experience Dublin’s rich history from a different perspective, the CitySightseeing Dublin River Cruise is for you!

This 45-minute Dublin boat tour glides along the River Liffey, giving you a panoramic view of the city’s historical center. The entertaining guides share interesting and funny stories and facts the entire time.

You’ll pass many famous Dublin landmarks, including the 18th-century Custom House, the historic Jeanie Johnston, and the Docklands area. 

The best part is that thanks to the boat’s glass roof, you can take this boat tour year-round in any weather. 

This boat trip is perfect for families with young kids and first-time visitors looking for an orientation to Dublin.

“To see Dublin from a different perspective, take the Boat Cruise on the River Liffey. Our Skipper, Mark, and our guide gave us a great tour of Dublin from the water. The commentary was both informative and entertaining. The guide was very good at making connections between Dublin’s history and the countries the patrons came from. This made the tour more personal. The tour is 45 minutes. It was a perfect way to see the city in the rain as the boat is enclosed.

Highly recommend this tour of Dublin.” – Lara

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 22 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  45 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – City Sightseeing

Check Prices and Availability!

A vintage-styled canal boat named 'Capella' is moored on the tranquil waters of a tree-lined canal. In the background, modern buildings peek through the bare branches, and an advertisement is visible on a green fence, juxtaposing urban development with the leisurely pace of boat life.
Enjoy dinner on a boat along Dublin’s Grand Canal.

9. Grand Canal Dinner Restaurant Boat Trip

⭐4.5/5 (100+ Reviews)

If you want to eat a delicious dinner while cruising along a tranquil canal, then this boat tour is for you!

This Grand Canal Cruise with dinner treats you to a delicious 3-course meal aboard a luxurious cruise vassal.

While you relax and enjoy your meal in the boat’s saloon, you’ll see the city of Dublin float past your window. You’ll even have the opportunity to watch the crew steer the barge along the canal and see how they pass through the locks.

Dinner is prepared fresh on board, and they even have a full bar stocked with wine, beer, and spirits (drinks are extra).

“From the moment we got on board the staff were fantastic. The food was beautiful. The 2 hour cruise up the Grand Canal and through a lock was amazing. The staff running this are just the best. When you are in Dublin do this as it will be one of the highlights of your trip.” — Brian

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 48 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  2 hours
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Tour Operator – Canal Boat Restaurant

Check Prices and Availability!

A smiling woman, the author, in a denim jacket wearing an orange life vest sits inside a yellow tour boat from the Viking Splash Tour, one of the best boat tours in Dublin. Safety instructions are visible above her head, with modern buildings and a body of water in the background, indicative of the city's scenic waterway tours.
On board the Viking Splash Tour.

10. Viking Splash Tour

⭐4.5/5 (3,000+ Reviews)

The Viking Splash Tours is one of the most unique boat tours in Dublin because it uses amphibious World War II vehicles that can travel both on land and in water.

I live along the route, and always hear the boats roaring by. When my cousin came to visit one summer, we made sure to check out what the tour was all about.

You’ll begin in the city center at St Stephen’s Green. You’ll visit many important sites, including the Custom House and the O’Connell Statue.

The guide narrates the entire journey, throwing in lots of character and local humor. If you don’t pay attention, he may single you out and poke some fun at you!

The water portion of the tour includes a quick splash in the Grand Canal. You’ll enjoy a short boat tour past the Bord Gais Energy Theatre and the new highrises of Grand Canal Dock before returning to land.

This tour is great for families with children, and even adults who are kids at heart.

This popular tour runs multiple times a day but often sells out. Booking in advance is a must.

Note: Guests must be at least 3 years of age to take this tour.

“A fun way to see Dublin by land and by sea we donned our Viking helmets and roared through the streets of Dublin much to the consternation of the people we were roaring at!” — Denise L.

Important Info:

  • Group Size – 28 passengers max
  • Tour Length –  75 minutes
  • Hotel Pickup/Dropoff? – No
  • Cancellation Policy – Change of date up to 48 hours in advance, space pending
  • Tour Operator – Viking Splash Tour

Check Prices and Availability!

Final Thoughts: Boat Tours in Dublin, Ireland

While Dublin isn’t known for its waterfront, its position along the water is the reason this city was founded in the first place. Getting a chance to learn about Dublin’s history and explore it from the coastline is one of the best things to add to your itinerary in Dublin.

While there isn’t a bad boat tour on the list, here are my top picks:

Best Boat Tour for Families – Dublin Bay Cruise to Dun Laoghaire

Best Boat Tour for Couples – Howth Sunset Cruise

Best Boat Tour for Friends – Grand Canal Dinner Restaurant Boat Trip 

Best Boat Tour for Solo Travelers – Dublin Music Under the Bridge Kayaking Tour

I hope this helps you decide on the best tour for your travel preferences and budget. I absolutely love getting out on the water in Dublin, and I hope you do too!

Related Posts: