Spend a day at Dublin Bay and discover the joy of slow travel
See Dublin from a different angle on a serene, scenic and sustainable cruise around Dublin Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful marine environments.
Dublin Bay Cruises, Howth Harbour
With so much to do in Dublin, a city break can be a whirlwind of sightseeing. But take a breath, head for the sea and take a Dublin Bay Cruise; you will be rewarded with an immersive, memorable and enriching experience.
Firstly, this isn’t just any bay, this is a UNESCO Biosphere internationally recognised for its fascinating natural heritage, important habitats and species of wildlife, and as a place that connects people and nature.
And then there are the many picturesque villages that dot the coastline, the landmark sights such as historic lighthouses and castles, and the natural beauty of the Islands and cliffs that provide a breath-taking panorama.
As you relax and sit back to enjoy the sights on the cruise, keep an eye out for seals and dolphins that often surface as if to greet the cruisers. Inhale the sea air, listen to the gulls and embrace the mindful rhythm of slow travel.
Dun Laoghaire Harbour, Dublin Bay
Dublin Bay Cruises offer seven different routes giving you the chance to discover the delights of the bay from on board their vessel and the opportunity to stop off and explore fascinating places along this scenic coastline.
Most of the routes include a stop at Dun Laoghaire, a pretty harbour town that is home to the National Maritime Museum of Ireland where you can dive into Ireland’s seafaring history. While in Dun Laoghaire, take a leisurely stroll along the pier, survey the colourful boats in the Five Gold Anchor rated marina and treat yourself to the best fish and chips on the island at The Fish Shack.
The boat trip north to Howth brings you to a beautiful peninsula popular for its cliff walks that rise from the charming village of the same name. Or go south from Dun Laoghaire towards Dalkey Island and Killiney Bay and you will cruise past historical gems like the Martello Tower at Sandycove which is now a quirky James Joyce museum. The tower featured in chapter one of Joyce’s famous novel Ulysses. This route passes medieval Dalkey village, now a vibrant hub that attracts writers, artists and musicians.
Howth Head, Co Dublin
The Dublin Bay Cruise experience is all the more enjoyable because its 96-seater St Bridget vessel has recently moved from using fossil fuels to Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO), reducing its environmental impact on this precious seascape. This change will reduce emissions by up to 90% giving passengers who are concerned about their carbon footprint, complete peace of mind.
The immersive journeys around the bay provide not only stunning views but are also accompanied by an engaging commentary that explains the rich historical and natural tapestry of the area and how it links to the city of Dublin.