Dublin isn’t just about its historic streets and lively pubs; this city also offers some outstanding cruise and boat tour experiences. Exploring Dublin from the water gives you a fresh perspective on its iconic landmarks—think about floating under the Ha’penny Bridge or admiring the Custom House with a breeze in your hair. One of our favorite options is the Dublin Sightseeing Cruise on the River Liffey with a local guide, which combines scenic views with engaging storytelling from someone who knows Dublin inside out. It’s a lively, informative trip that reveals the city’s evolution from Viking settlement to modern capital—all in just 45 minutes.
Beyond the River Liffey, Dublin’s coastline offers exciting options, like the Dublin Bay, Howth Coast, and Ireland’s Eye Boat Tour. This 45-minute cruise reveals stunning views of Ireland’s Eye and Howth’s rugged cliffs, perfect for wildlife watchers and photo enthusiasts. For those wanting a longer day out, there’s also the Cliffs of Moher Tour from Dublin with a boat cruise, which combines coastal scenery with a memorable boat trip to one of Ireland’s most famous natural wonders. No matter your interest or schedule, Dublin’s boat tours provide a wonderfully different way to experience this lively city.
1. Dublin Sightseeing Cruise on River Liffey with Local Guide
At number 1 on our list, this scenic cruise along Dublin’s River Liffey offers a compact, 45-minute window into the city’s history and architecture. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but insightful tour. The boat glides past famous sights like the Ha’penny Bridge, the Custom House, and Dublin’s Docklands, which has undergone dramatic redevelopment. What makes this cruise stand out is the local guide who shares stories about Dublin’s Viking past, 18th-century shipping, and recent economic changes—all with humor and passion.
Reviewers consistently praise the light-hearted storytelling and the panoramic views. Gerry, the guide, is known for his humor and engagement, making the 45-minute trip fly by. The trip’s affordability—about $23.62 per person—adds to its appeal, especially for those with limited time. The cruise is suitable for all ages, and the short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule. The combination of a relaxed boat ride and rich commentary makes this a top choice for anyone wanting a quick, authentic Dublin experience.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a fun, informative, and affordable way to see Dublin from a new angle—perfect for first-timers or those short on time.
2. Dublin: Dublin Bay, Howth Coast and Ireland’s Eye Boat Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Dublin Bay and Howth Coast cruise, which takes about 45 minutes and offers stunning views of Ireland’s Eye and the cliffs around Howth. This tour is led by experienced captains providing live onboard commentary on local wildlife, history, and geography, giving you a richer connection to the landscape. It’s particularly appealing for nature lovers who want to see marine habitats and seabirds while cruising past rugged coastlines.
Passengers love the view of Howth’s cliffs and the chance to spot seabirds and marine life, including sometimes even dolphins. This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience without a long commitment. Its affordability, combined with the opportunity to see wildlife and coastlines, makes it a standout choice. The only potential downside is that commentary is exclusively in English, which might limit international travelers who prefer multilingual guides.
Bottom Line: A great pick for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone wanting a peaceful, picturesque cruise of Dublin’s coastal scenery.
3. Boat Trip from Howth to Dun Laoghaire
Coming in at number 3, this one-hour boat trip from Howth to Dun Laoghaire offers a relaxed way to see Dublin’s coastal waters. Departing from Howth’s charming fishing village, you’ll pass iconic sights like Baily Lighthouse, Dalkey Island, and Howth Cliffs. The tour is well-liked for its informal group setting, making it easy to chat with fellow travelers and maybe even make a friend or two.
The boat has onboard Wi-Fi and a snack bar, so you can stay connected and grab a quick bite while enjoying the scenery. The route provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially of the cliffs and lighthouse. Reviewers note that the boat can get crowded, which might make it hard to find a good view at times, but overall, the trip is praised for its stunning scenery and friendly crew. It’s suitable for families and solo travelers alike, especially those looking for a relaxed day on the water.
Bottom Line: This is an enjoyable, casual cruise that combines scenic beauty with social atmosphere—ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, no-fuss outing.
4. Dublin: Howth Cruise and Dine Experience
Number 4 on our list combines a scenic cruise with a delicious meal, making it a perfect option for those who want both sightseeing and local cuisine. This 3-hour experience starts with a cruise past Howth Cliffs and Ireland’s Eye, offering spectacular views and wildlife sightings, including seals and puffins. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a meal at Findlaters restaurant, where local produce is the star.
The cruise part of this tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate a leisurely pace and want to engage all their senses. The Baily Lighthouse and marine life sightings add a special touch to the experience. However, with only 8 reviews and a lower rating of 3.4/5, it’s clear that some guests found the experience less polished or too long for the price. Still, if you love combining scenery with good food, this tour could be a delightful choice.
Bottom Line: A good pick for food lovers who want to see Dublin Bay from the water and enjoy a quality meal afterward, though it’s best to check recent reviews for current quality.
5. Cliffs of Moher Tour from Dublin (with Boat Cruise)
Number 5 takes you on a full-day excursion to the Cliffs of Moher, with a highlight being the boat cruise along the coast. Starting early from Dublin, the tour includes stops at Liscannor village and the Burren region, famous for its unique limestone landscape. The boat cruise at the cliffs is a memorable experience, giving you a different perspective of this iconic natural wonder.
This 13-hour trip is best suited for travelers with a whole day to spare, especially those interested in Ireland’s rugged coastline. The boat trip adds an extra layer of appreciation for the cliffs’ scale and beauty—an experience that photos alone can’t capture. Reviewers mention the fantastic weather and the engaging guide making it a memorable day out. The tour costs more than shorter trips, but the comprehensive itinerary offers good value for those wanting an immersive Irish adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dedicated explorers who want to combine scenic coastal views, natural wonders, and a boat journey into one day.
6. Dublin: Dun Laoghaire Dalkey Island Boat Cruise
Number 6 offers a one-hour cruise from Dun Laoghaire Harbour to Killiney Bay, showcasing sights like the James Joyce Martello Tower, Forty Foot, and Bullock Harbour. The route passes through some of Dublin’s most scenic seaside areas and provides opportunities to spot dolphins, yachts, and historic landmarks.
This trip is ideal for travelers who prefer a shorter, relaxed cruise with a focus on sightseeing and marine life. The cruise’s convenience—easy to find in Dun Laoghaire—makes it a good addition to a day of exploring nearby neighborhoods. Passengers consistently enjoy the beautiful views of the coastline, with some noting the chance to see dolphins as a highlight. The tour’s moderate price makes it accessible, but some might find the one-hour duration limiting if they want more extensive sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A compact, scenic cruise perfect for a quick coastal escape without leaving Dublin’s outskirts.
7. Howth Sundown Cruise
Finishing our list, the Howth Sundown Cruise is an enchanting one-hour voyage around Ireland’s Eye, departing from Howth Harbour. This evening cruise is all about unwinding as you watch the sunset over the Dublin coast, hearing ambient tunes and taking in the peaceful evening atmosphere.
This tour is best suited for those looking for a memorable sunset experience. The serenity of the coast at dusk combined with beautiful views of Howth cliffs makes it suitable for romantic evenings or quiet reflection. The reviews are glowing, with a rating of 4.8/5, reflecting how many travelers find this trip special. It’s also a flexible option that doesn’t take up a whole day, making it perfect for an early evening outing.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for sunset lovers wanting a peaceful, scenic wrap-up to a day in Dublin.
How to Choose the Right Dublin Boat Tour
When selecting a cruise or boat tour in Dublin, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a quick introduction to the city, the Dublin Sightseeing Cruise on River Liffey offers a compact, engaging experience. If you’re into nature and coastal scenery, the Howth Coast tour provides wildlife viewing and spectacular views.
Looking for a full-day adventure? The Cliffs of Moher Tour combines scenic sights with a boat cruise, perfect for those with extra time and a love for natural wonders. For a romantic sunset, the Howth Sundown Cruise offers a peaceful, memorable experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
In sum, Dublin offers a variety of cruises and boat tours tailored to nearly every traveler’s interests. Whether you prefer heart-racing coastal adventures, quick city glimpses, or relaxing sunset voyages, there’s an option for you. For those seeking a lively, informative city tour, the River Liffey cruise shines. Nature lovers will love the coastal excursions around Howth and Ireland’s Eye, while history buffs can enjoy scenic trips that include iconic landmarks and natural wonders like the Cliffs of Moher. No matter your choice, booking in advance and considering your interests will ensure a memorable water-bound experience in Dublin.