11 Boat Tours in Dublin [and near Dublin too!] In 2023

Going on a boat tour in Dublin is a very popular way to see the city! 

Many of Dublin’s important buildings, history and surreal natural landscapes can be experienced by going on boat tours. So look no further, I have compiled all the best boat tours in Dublin! 

As you dig into the lists, you will also find some of the best boat tours near Dublin. 

Me and my partner, Ger, know all the best boat tours in Dublin because we’ve tried them ourselves!

Whether you prefer to have a leisure boat ride or a thrill-seeking one, you are in for a treat as there is something for everyone on this list!

I am really excited to share my reviews of the best boat tours in Dublin, so you can choose one that fits you the best.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive right in! 

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11 Best Boat Tours in and near Dublin

1. 7-Day Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin with the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Bay and the Burren

⭐️Rating: 5  out of 5 stars, with 30 positive reviews! | ⌛️Tour Length: 7 Days

Why choose this tour? 

This private tour brings you to every significant landmark when you’re making a trip outside of Dublin, from UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney National Park, and Skellig Michael.

Some highlights of the places that include the private boat tour are UNESCO listed Cliffs of Moher and Skellig Michael, and lastly Dingle. 

Cliffs of Moher offers some of the most breathtaking views that you can imagine with its stunning cliff formations. A visit here will be one of your most memorable experiences during your trip outside of Dublin. 

Skellig Michael is one of the most impressive sites that houses a monastic site, which dates back to the 6th century!

As Skellig Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, only a limited number of people can land on this island so taking a boat tour down would be one of the most unique experiences you will have while visiting Ireland. 

This is an all-inclusive private tour that includes accommodation, breakfasts, transport, activities, and attractions so you don’t have to worry about anything. 

Plus, you’ll have your very own personal tour guide that will accommodate you, and being chauffeur driven in the comfort of your private car makes it even better. 

Needless to say, the convenience and ease of mind that this tour provides makes it one of the best luxury tours you can have. 

The 7-Day Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin with the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Bay and the Burren includes: 

• 7 full days on tour
• Round-trip transport from Dublin is included (meet at pick-up point) 
• Off the beaten track adventure in a 4X4 tour vehicle.
• Services of highly trained professional tour guides
• 6 nights accommodation (2 nights B&B, 4 nights Hotel)
• 6 full Irish breakfasts.
• The train journey to or from the west of Ireland on certain departures.
• Fantastic guided walks
• Demonstrations of local craftsmen at work
• All relevant taxes
• Note: This small-group tour is limited to 4 people.  

What past guests loved about the tour: 

We just returned home after our 7 day World Tour of Ireland. Only one word to describe our trip, FABULOUS ! What a great time. From the Cliffs of Moher to Blarney Castle and everything in between, it could not have been more exciting and enjoyable. 

Brian, our guide, was extraordinary. He was extremely knowledgeable, funny and caring. What a great pleasure it was having him as our guide. I must also say that our tour group couldn’t have been friendlier. It was a great joy to have people we had never met before the tour become friends during our adventure.

A Tripadvisor reviewer (read more reviews)

2. Howth Cliff Cruises

⭐️Rating: 4.5  out of 5 stars, with 50 positive reviews! | ⌛️Tour Length: Approximately 45 minutes

Why choose this tour? 

If you would like to get a glimpse of some of the picturesque scenes in Dublin, then you’ll love this boat tour!  

 This boat trip starts at West pier in Howth, which is accessible by bus and train. 

Throughout the cruise, Captain Mark will walk you through the different sights and attractions along the Howth Cliffs, which have some of the most stunning views. 

With this boat trip, you can get close to these sights, without you needing to break a sweat! 

The one-hour-long cruise will seem like a breeze as Captain Mark is very knowledgeable. His family has been touring these waters for generations! 

Overall this boat trip is a great option for travelers, and also for the locals who want to bring their families and kids!

The Howth Cliff Cruise includes: 

• A magnificent view of Howth Cliffs
• Learn about the region’s sights and wildlife with live commentary
• Discover some of the Dublin area’s most impressive natural attractions
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

“We had such a great experience. The Captain was friendly and knowledgeable, the boat was easy to find and easy to get around on, and Howth is simply gorgeous. It is a great way to see Howth. Plus the food and drinks on the pier are delicious. I would definitely suggest taking this tour.”

ErinPerrault_P (read more reviews)

3. Dublin Bay: Cruise from the City Centre to Dun Laoghaire

⭐️Rating: 4.1  out of 5 stars, with 27 positive reviews!| ⌛️ Tour Length: 1 hour

Why choose this tour? 

On this tour, you will get to explore all the main highlights in Dublin, in just under 1 hour. 

The cruise starts from the south of Dublin Bay to the stunning Dun Laoghaire Harbour, which is a beautiful 200+-year-old Victorian port. 

You’ll be able to enjoy the sights of the East Link Bridge, Poolbeg Lighthouse, Bull Island, Joyce’s Martello Tower, and Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

This tour comes with a friendly, knowledgeable guide that will point out interesting sights and share with you anecdotes of Dublin’s rich history along the way. 

There is an onboard bar where you can sip a drink while enjoying the stunning views, so that’s a plus! 

If you only have a short limited amount of time, then this boat tour is the best one for you to get the most unforgettable experience in Dublin! 

The Dublin Bay Cruise from the City Centre to Dun Laoghaire includes: 

• Get to see Dublin’s docklands and bay from a unique perspective
• View of the magnificent Convention Center, Eastlink Bridge, and Poolbeg Lighthouse
• Listen to a guided tour commentary as you enjoy a drink from the bar
• Discounted DART return ticket
• No food and drinks can be purchased onboard
• Note: This tour is suitable for all ages and families

What past guests loved about the tour: 

“Excellent boat trip from Dublin City to Dun Laoghaire. The weather, although cloudy, was dry. Good commentary as well.”

A GetYourGuide Traveller, (read more reviews) 

4. Howth Sunset Cruises

⭐️ Rating: 3.5  out of 5 stars, with 2 positive reviews!| ⌛️ Tour Length: Approximately 45 minutes

Why choose this tour? 

This particular boat trip is a little different than the rest that I have shared with you. It takes place during sunset, making it extra dreamy especially if you’re with your loved ones.

When you’re on this trip, you would have the opportunity to soak up the beauty of Dublin Bay and the magnificent Howth Head, with the sun setting in the background! 

Isn’t it truly just wonderful? It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get stunning views of Dublin from the sea, with the sunset.  

The meeting point for this boat tour in Dublin is accessible by public transportation so it is easily accessible. 

Having been on a sunset tour myself, this is definitely one of my favorite boat tour packages in Dublin! 

The Howth Sunset Cruise includes: 

• Passing by Howth Head where you will get fantastic views of the Howth as the sun goes down 
• See the sunset from the deck of a boat in Ireland
• Possible sightings  of local wildlife such as seals
• Restroom on board
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

“Great experience! Loved the large boat and great driving skills. Saw amazing things including a seal! Would recommend it to everyone and those with kids.”

A Tripadvisor reviewer (read more reviews)

5. Sightseeing Cruise on the River Liffey

⭐️Rating: 4  out of 5 stars, with more than 200 positive reviews!| ⌛️ Tour Length: Approximately 45 minutes

Why choose this tour? 

If you’re looking to experience the city and see what the architecture and neighborhood are like in Dublin, this is the cruise for you! 

The River Liffey boat tour has every historical city landmark that you would like to visit, especially in a city like Dublin. 

This comprehensive cruise comes with a friendly guide that will give you a taste of Irish history, down to Dublin’s Docklands neighborhood.

It might not be as romantic or panoramic as the other boat tours, but it’s a great way of getting to know the city right from River Liffey, which runs through the heart of Dublin. 

The meeting point of this cruise is right in the city center, so it is very easy to get to. 

It’s a wonderful way to experience the highlights of Dublin, especially if you’re visiting for a short period of time. You definitely don’t want to miss out on the River Liffey boat tour  so book it today! 

The Sightseeing Cruise on the River Liffey includes: 

• Live commentary on board
• Local guide provided
• See city landmarks including the Samuel Beckett Bridge, Ha’penny Bridge and 

Dublin Docklands

• Passing by several neighborhoods in one tour
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 22 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

“Great boat ride up and down the river, tour guide was hilarious and kept it fun whilst chatting about all the history. We learnt a lot and thoroughly enjoyed the sights. Thank you.”

Victoria_R (read more reviews)

BEST BOAT TOURS NEAR DUBLIN 

6. Cliffs of Moher Premium Tour with Boat Cruise 

⭐️Rating: 4  out of 5 stars, with 58 positive reviews!| ⌛️ Tour Length: 12 to 13 hours 

Why choose this tour? 

This particular tour brings you to Cliffs of Moher, which is easily one of the top destinations in Ireland and is on many people’s bucket lists! 

Without a doubt, Cliffs of Moher is a must-visit when you’re in Ireland. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the world.

You get to experience the full beauty of the Cliffs of Moher through clifftop walks and also views of magnificent sea cliffs from the cruise. How incredible would that be!

This is one of the best excursions that can be done from Dublin, but you need to get up early! To make the most of the day, you will be picked up early and make your first stop at Caherconnell Stone Fort before arriving at Cliffs of Moher. 

Excited to experience one of the most stunning natural wonders? Then look no further and book this tour instantly!

The Cliffs of Moher Premium Tour with Boat Cruise includes: 

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• All activities
• Live commentary on board
• Professional guide
• Roundtrip transport provided (meet at pick-up point) 
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

We were on July 10th on this fantastic trip. Our guide and guide Steve was incredible. For 13 hours, he told us about Ireland. He was extremely polite and correct. We had four breaks in which we could have a meal, a cup of coffee and a rest from the road. 

The bus was new, air-conditioned. I strongly recommend this excursion because it corresponds to 100% of what was announced in the offer. Boating around the rocks and then seeing them on land is indescribable. Thank you Steve for the wonderful day!

Aniu73 (read more reviews)

7. Dingle Bay Speed Boat Tours and Great Blasket Island Experience

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 395 positive reviews!| ⌛️Tour Length: Approximately 6 to 7 hours

Why choose this tour? 

This particular speed boat tour is designed for thrill-seekers. In just 6 hours, be prepared to experience spectacular sceneries and get stunned by the abundance of wildlife! 

Located just about 214 miles southwest of Dublin, the most convenient way to get to Dingle is by car. Dingle Bay has one of the most stunning scenic drives which makes it perfect for a day trip outside of Dublin! 

On this speed boat tour, you’ll be able to discover the breathtaking bay, the Great Blasket Islands and not to forget, the local wildlife such as dolphins and seals! 

With a friendly knowledgeable local guide as a tour, you will be very well informed about the island and the wildlife around you. 

This is the perfect speed boat tour for my fellow thrill seekers, reserve your spot today! This will undeniably be the highlight of your trip. 

The Dingle Bay Speed Boat Tours and Great Blasket Island Experience includes: 

• Afternoon tea – Complementary Tea or Coffee in the Great Blasket Island Cafe
• Binoculars available
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

We spent two weeks in Scotland and Ireland, had a wonderful trip, and this was by far the highlight! I guess I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but the scenery was magnificent, and to be on this beautiful, isolated island with only 12 people, was something I don’t imagine I’ll experience again. Dingle is definitely out of the way, but everyone should go there in order to do this tour.

A Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews) 

8. 10 Day Wild Irish Experience Small Group Tour From Dublin

⭐️Rating: 5  out of 5 stars, with 22 positive reviews!| ⌛️Tour Length: 10 Days

Why choose this tour? 

Perhaps your ideal trip consists of exploring the western side of Dublin, discovering the rugged landscapes and traveling along the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Immerse yourself in this private tour, covering places from Connemara Region, Inis Mor, UNESCO World Heritage Site Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park. All of them are must-visit places in Ireland! 

A few of these places are only reachable by boat and that includes Inis Mor, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Dingle Peninsula. 

You will also be accompanied by a friendly local tour guide that will share the different sights and experiences Ireland has to offer! 

This all-inclusive tour outside of Dublin includes boat trips, accommodations, breakfast, and transportation.

It’s a brilliant way to visit the highlights of Ireland in a private, personalized tour in the comfort of your own time. 

The 10 Day Wild Irish Experience Small Group Tour From Dublin includes: 

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Round-trip transport from Dublin is included (meet at pick-up point) 
• All fees and taxes
• Private transportation is provided
• Breakfast is included
• All tours and accommodation with breakfast are included
• Private tour guide
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

Sean was great! He was our driver/tour guide. We only had 5 in our group. The hotels/BB’s were very nice and in easy walking distance to everything in the towns we stayed in. He answered our questions and got the answers when he didn’t know. He was very accommodating to my friend who wanted to do a memorial. He picked a special place and video taped it. 

We were on an easy schedule. We had time on our own to shop, rest, or whatever. Sean was prompt, took care of everything, and made our trip stress free. Ireland is beautiful and the people we came across were very nice. 

A Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews) 

9. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise 

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 1530 positive reviews!| ⌛️Tour Length: 12 to 13 hours 

Why choose this tour? 

Apart from going to the main attractions, this tour goes beyond that! 

They also bring you to a few more places, such as the beautiful villages in Ballindereen and Clarinbridge, the Dunguaire Castle, and Aillwee Cave. 

In addition, if you have been looking to visit the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Island all in one day, then this day trip outside of Dublin is made for you. 

Cliffs of Moher has one of the most breathtaking views of sea cliffs and Aran Island is a fantastic place to soak up the green fields and marvel at the stone walls – nature’s wonders at its best! 

Your knowledgeable and helpful local guide will be sharing some history on the sites that you will be visiting on that day! So don’t be shy and ask away if you have any questions. 

During this trip, your transportation from Galway to your boat trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Island will be taken care of.

This tour is fantastic for those who are looking to explore these main attractions from Galway. Book this tour so you don’t miss out! 

The From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise

includes: 

• Round-trip ferry ride
• Round trip transport provided (meet at pick up point) 
• All entrance fees included
• Family-friendly
• Live commentary on board
• Local Driver / Guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• All entrance fees included
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 53 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

It was such a wonderful experience. I definitely enjoyed the trip even if it was raining when we visited Inisheer island. However, when we went to the Cliffs of Moher, the rain had already stopped. The place was so lovely and I was able to witness the beautiful sunset before we left. Such a memorable experience. Our driver/guide, John, was very good in giving us information about the sites we had passed by along the way. Highly recommended.

Nancy_I, (read more reviews) 

10. Exhilarating Rib experience – Dingle sea safari

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 628 positive reviews!| ⌛️Tour Length: 3 hours

Why choose this tour? 

This speed boat tour is also designed for thrill seekers, but with a twist. 

What makes it even more thrilling is that you’ll be riding in an open Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) boat, which means that the boat does not have a roof and has an exposed deck. 

Yes, it is exposed, how exciting! 

You will get a dash of heart-pumping adventure by going on this speed boat tour, that’s for sure. 

Also, there is an opportunity to get up close to nature and marine mammals such as dolphins, seals and if you’re lucky, even whales! 

If you’re concerned about your safety, don’t worry as there will be a knowledgeable captain with you guiding you throughout the journey. They also provide waterproof pants and life jackets to keep you safe. You’ll be warm and secure throughout the trip! 

An extra tip for you, bring an extra pair of clothing for you to change into, just in case the splash is bigger than expected. 

For those who are looking for a unique experience and love the outdoors, you will enjoy this boat tour outside of Dublin!

The Exhilarating Rib experience – Dingle sea safari includes: 

• Waterproof warm jackets
• Waterproof pants
• Life jackets
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

Dolphins, whales, seals and puffins. Exciting and lots of information from our guide Shawn. We were kept warm and dry with the gear provided.

Sue_r (read more reviews)

11. Clew Bay Cruise, Westport (90 minutes)

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 501 positive reviews!| ⌛️Tour Length: 1 hour 30 minutes

Why choose this tour? 

It’s the best way to experience some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Ireland. 

Located just a few hours away from Dublin, Clew Bay is a stunning place to visit and makes the best day trip for a quick getaway outside of Dublin! 

Clew Bay is a scenic place with rich history, wildlife creatures, and the most stunning formations of islands in all shapes. Sailing through the bay will allow you to get up close to these islands!

Your cruise will be accompanied by a very knowledgeable guide, while you experience the scenic views of the bay. 

Going for this cruise will be one of your memorable travels during your day trip outside of Dublin! 

The Clew Bay Cruise, Westport (90 minutes) includes: 

• All Fees and Taxes
• WiFi on board
• Restroom on board
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Free On-site Parking
• Binoculars and Wi-Fi are offered on board
• A paid bar and cafe on the boat
• Note: This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

What past guests loved about the tour: 

Very knowledgeable guide and they were good enough to take us out even though we were a small group. Fabulous experience in a beautiful place. The wind can be cold so wrap up.

Tanya_E, (read more reviews) 

What to Pack For Your Boat tours in and near Dublin?

Now that you’re excited to go on your tours and boat trip, do you know what to pack? 

Besides the usual travel essentials, there are a few other essentials that I would recommend you to pack as well so you’d be more prepared for the tours and boat trip! 

The items are: 

• Sunblock
• Hat
• Waterproof bag
• Fast drying towel
• Collapsible water bottle
• Travel umbrella

Are you excited to get on the Boat Tours in and near Dublin? 

 There you go, that is everything you need to know about boat tours in and near Dublin!

A selection of some of the best boat tours in and near Dublin includes sightseeing in the city to speed boat tours near Dublin. 

I can’t wait for you to discover what Ireland has to offer, from their breathtaking bays to spectacular cliffs, I am pretty sure you can never get enough of it! 

So really, what are you waiting for? 

All you have to do now is to make sure you book your top choices of the boat tours in and near Dublin, you don’t want to miss anything out! 

I wish you a wonderful time in and near Dublin and if you have found my guide to be useful, feel free to share it with your friends too! 

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