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Dublin: Dublin Bay Cruise from Dun Laoghaire to Howth
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From €28 per person
There’s a version of Dublin that most visitors never see - the one that opens up the moment you get on the water. Board the St Bridget at Dun Laoghaire and over 60 to 70 minutes you’ll sail across one of Europe’s most scenic bays, watching the city and coastline rearrange themselves into something completely different.
The Dublin Mountains rise behind the shoreline as you head north. Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island come into view on your right, Dalkey Island trails off behind you to the south, and Joyce’s Martello Tower marks the coastline as you go. The Baily Lighthouse stands watch on Howth Head as you come in. Keep an eye on the wildlife reserve at Bull Island as you cross the bay - it’s worth the look. And as you pull into Howth Harbour, you’ll spot the seals that reliably haul out on the pier. They’re not performing for anyone; they’re just there, which somehow makes it better.
This is a one-way trip, and that’s actually the ideal way to do it. You arrive into Howth with the afternoon ahead of you - seafood restaurants, cliff walks, and a castle that’s been on that hill since the 14th century. When you’re ready to head back to the city, the DART runs regularly and the cruise includes a voucher for a discounted fare. Or, if you’d prefer to sail back, you can arrange a return trip when you board.
Time your arrival into Howth for lunch. The village has some of the best seafood on the east coast, and getting there mid-morning on the cruise means you’ll arrive right as the better restaurants are opening for service. The fish and chips on the pier are worth it, but so are the sit-down spots if you’ve got the time.
Sit on the right side of the boat heading north. That’s where you’ll get the best views of the coastline landmarks - Ireland’s Eye, the Baily Lighthouse as you approach, and the best angle on the seals at the harbour entrance. The left side has its moments too, but the right is the one people regret missing.
The DART back is part of the experience. It hugs the coast all the way from Howth to the city centre, passing Clontarf, Killester, and along the waterfront through Fairview. It’s a genuinely lovely train journey and a nice way to see a different stretch of Dublin from the one you came out on.
Bring a layer for the crossing. Dublin Bay can be brisk even on a sunny day. The upper deck is the place to be if the weather’s decent, but the wind off the water has a way of catching you out. A light jacket or a scarf means you’ll actually enjoy being up there.
Check the sailing times before you go. This is a scheduled service, so crossings don’t run continuously. Checking the timetable in advance means you can plan Howth properly - enough time for a walk and a meal before you need to think about the DART back.