Dublin Bay is one of those things Dubliners take for granted and visitors rarely get to see from the water. This one-way cruise changes that, taking you from Sir John Rogerson’s Quay in the city centre south through the bay to Dun Laoghaire Harbour in about 60 to 70 minutes.
The route passes some of Dublin’s most recognisable maritime landmarks. You will see the candy-red Poolbeg chimneys and lighthouse, the sandy stretch of Bull Island, and the Martello Tower at Sandycove that James Joyce made famous. A live guide points out the sights along the way and shares stories about the bay’s history, from its role as a major port to the wildlife reserves that string along the coastline from north to south.
The 96-passenger vessel has upper and lower viewing decks for those who want the full open-air experience, plus an indoor heated cabin for when the Irish weather has other ideas. There is an onboard bar where you can grab a drink to enjoy as you watch the city recede behind you. Arrival at Dun Laoghaire is around noon, leaving you perfectly placed to explore the harbour town, grab lunch on the pier, or hop on the DART back into the city.