Dublin’s coastline looks different from the water. This Howth to Dun Laoghaire bay cruise is an easy, scenic way to see Dublin Bay’s key landmarks in just about an hour, with big-water views from the boat and onboard commentary along the way. I especially like the chance to pass the Howth Cliffs/Howth Head and spot famous lighthouse points as you cross the bay.

Two standout things for me are the variety of sights on one route and the casual, friendly feel onboard the St Bridget. I also like that this isn’t just a sit-and-stare cruise; you’re pointed toward what you’re seeing as the shoreline changes. One thing to keep in mind: if the sea gets a bit choppy, you may end up spending more time inside simply because of space.

Key Things You’ll Notice on This Howth–Dun Laoghaire Cruise

• St Bridget onboard service: you can grab coffee or a glass of wine as available (drinks aren’t included)
• Big sight list in one hour: Ireland’s Eye, Lambay Island, Howth Head, and the lighthouses you’ll recognize right away
• Wildlife-area passing: Bull Island sanctuary comes into view as you cross Dublin Bay
• Short and sweet timing: plan for about 60–70 minutes on the water
• One-way value with rail help: included ferry + a DART discount voucher for your return

Why This Cruise Works So Well for First-Time Dublin Bay Views

If you only have a short window, this is a smart pick. You get the water-level perspective on Dublin Bay without committing to a long day trip or complicated transfers.

I like that it feels both local and tourist-friendly. The route connects two very “Dublin” sides of the coastline: Howth’s launch point and Dun Laoghaire’s busy harbor vibe.

It’s also a great way to see the shape of the bay. From the boat, the coastline, islands, and harbor entry make more sense than trying to piece it together from land.

Price and What You Actually Get (So You Can Judge Value)

At $28 per person for a one-way sailing, you’re paying for a guided sightseeing ferry moment. The duration is about an hour to 70 minutes, so this isn’t a long investment of time.

What makes the price feel more reasonable is what’s included:

• ferry ticket from Howth to Dun Laoghaire
• a DART discount voucher for your return journey

What’s not included is equally important: drinks or snacks on board. So if you want coffee, wine, or anything extra, you should expect to purchase it once you’re onboard.

For me, this price hits the sweet spot if you’re using public transit anyway. The DART voucher means the “how do I get back?” question is mostly handled.

Getting There: DART to Howth and the West Pier Start

This cruise lines up nicely with getting to Howth by train. The experience highlights making it easy to take the DART to Howth before sailing, which is exactly how a practical day starts in Dublin.

You’ll meet at West Pier in Howth, just opposite Aqua Restaurant. Arrive with a little buffer so you’re not rushing while you’re trying to get your bearings and settle in.

Tip: wear comfortable shoes. Even though it’s short, you’ll likely walk a bit along the pier and up to boarding.

On Board the St Bridget: Commentary, Drinks, and Space Reality

You’ll cruise aboard the St Bridget for about 60–70 minutes. The vibe is relaxed, and the boat has onboard commentary so you aren’t just guessing what you’re seeing.

I really like the human part of this: the captain experience here is described as funny, friendly, and engaging. That kind of tone makes the sights land better, even if you’re not the type to read every sign.

You’ll also have the option to get coffee or a glass of wine as available. Just don’t count on it being included, since drinks aren’t part of the standard package.

One consideration is simple: space onboard can be tight. If the sea turns choppy, you might spend more time inside rather than standing out on deck the whole time.

Route Breakdown: From Howth Cliffs to Dun Laoghaire Harbour

This is a one-way run, so each stage matters. The route is designed so the “wow” moments come in chunks as the bay opens up.

You start on the water near the West Pier, and the cruise takes you past major landmarks before entering Dun Laoghaire Harbour at the end.

Even with limited time, you still get a real change in scenery—coastline, islands, and then the harbor approach.

Leaving Howth: Getting the Cliffs and Howth Head in View

Right after you’re moving, you’ll pass by the Howth Cliffs. If you’ve only seen Howth from roads and viewpoints, this angle can be a surprise—in a good way.

Then you round Howth Head, which is where the coastline starts to feel more open and exposed. It’s the moment the trip shifts from “near Howth” to “in the bay.”

This portion is great for photos because you’re seeing structure in layers: cliff line, headland, and then the broader water beyond.

The North Side Sights: Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island

As you move north across Dublin Bay, you’ll pass Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island. These islands are well-known enough that seeing them from the water feels satisfying, even if you don’t know every detail.

What I like about this part is the contrast. You’re not just looking at one continuous shoreline—you’re watching islands pop in and out of your viewpoint as the boat’s path shifts.

If you’re the type who enjoys spotting “island names” on a map becoming real, this is that moment.

Lighthouses and Coastal Landmarks You’ll Recognize

Next come some of the iconic lighthouse points: Baily and Kish Lighthouses. Even if you’ve only heard the names before, you’ll understand why they matter once they’re framed against the water and coastline.

After that, the route passes by Bull Island, known as a wildlife sanctuary area. Seeing it from the cruise route is a reminder that Dublin Bay isn’t only about boats and ferries.

This middle section is where onboard commentary helps the most. It turns the scenery from random shapes into recognizable locations.

And yes, this is also where deck views can be at their best, assuming the sea cooperates.

The Cross-Bay Moment: Bull Island to Dalkey Island

When you cross the bay, the scenery changes again. Bull Island sits as a recognizable wildlife-area landmark, and it helps you understand the bay’s mix of natural space and shipping/harbor activity.

Then Dalkey Island comes into view. This is one of those sights that feels distinctly “Dublin Bay,” because it anchors the sense that the bay has multiple personalities depending on where you look.

This stretch is a good time to slow down and watch the shoreline. It’s short enough that you don’t get bored, but long enough that the view isn’t over in a blink.

Ending in Dun Laoghaire: Docking and Harbour Views

The final phase is about the approach into Dun Laoghaire Harbour. This is the landing you came for: you go from open bay water back into a recognizable harbor setting with buildings and docks close by.

If you want a bit of extra time on shore, this is the natural moment to plan it. You can take advantage of Dun Laoghaire’s spot on the map to get food or just stretch your legs before you head back.

And since the cruise is one-way, you’ll want a return plan that fits. That’s where the DART discount voucher becomes useful.

Getting the Most Out of the Views (Without Overplanning)

Because the cruise is about an hour, you’ll enjoy it more if you treat it like a “sight sprint,” not a full tour.

Here’s what helps in practice:

• Wear comfortable clothes and consider a light layer. Wind off the water can cool you down fast.
• Have your camera ready early, especially for Howth Head and the lighthouse sightings.
• If the sea gets choppy, don’t be stubborn about standing outside. It’s smarter to move where the ride is more comfortable.

Also, bring the right expectations. This isn’t a museum stop. It’s a moving viewpoint, and the best moments come and go with the route.

Who This Cruise Suits Best

This cruise is a solid match if you want:

• a short, scenic water experience
• major Dublin Bay sights in a single trip
• a simple connection from train to water (DART to Howth)

It also works well for families and infants since it’s designed as an easy onboard outing rather than a strenuous hike day.

And it can be a great choice for locals who want something different without a long drive. Dun Laoghaire and Howth are both easy to reach, and the cruise gives you a fresh view of familiar coastline.

Should You Book This Dublin Bay Cruise From Howth to Dun Laoghaire?

I’d book it if you like practical sightseeing and you want a fast hit of Dublin Bay landmarks. The mix of islands, lighthouses, and the wildlife-area passing is a strong reason to choose this route over a longer but more complicated day.

The captain and onboard commentary angle is another reason I like it. When the guide energy is friendly and humorous, the sights feel more connected instead of just listed.

If you’re very sensitive to boat movement or you dislike being limited by space onboard, you’ll want to plan for that reality. The cruise is still short, but choppy conditions can shift where you spend your time.

If you want, tell me what time of year you’re going and whether you’re traveling with kids or anyone prone to motion sickness, and I’ll help you decide the smartest way to time this sailing.

FAQ

How long is the Dublin Bay cruise from Howth to Dun Laoghaire?

The cruise runs about 1 hour to 70 minutes. Exact starting times depend on availability.

Where do I meet for the cruise in Howth?

Meet at West Pier in Howth, just opposite Aqua Restaurant.

Where does the cruise end?

The cruise ends at East Pier.

Is this a round-trip or one-way sailing?

It’s a one-way sailing from Howth to Dun Laoghaire. Return travel is not included.

What is included in the ticket price?

Your ticket includes the ferry ticket from Howth to Dun Laoghaire and a DART discount voucher for your return journey.

Are drinks or snacks included on board?

No. Drinks and snacks are not included.

What sights do we pass during the cruise?

You’ll pass Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island to the north, Howth Head, Baily and Kish Lighthouses, Bull Island, Dalkey Island, and you’ll enter Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

Do I need to take the DART to Howth?

The experience highlights taking the DART to Howth before your sailing. The DART discount voucher is for your return journey.

Is the activity suitable for families?

Yes. It’s suitable for all ages, families, and infants.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.