Ferry from Howth to Ireland’s Eye Island

Admire stunning views of Howth’s coastline and Dublin Bay on short boat ride to the uninhabited island Ireland’s Eye. Have free time to explore the island which is a sanctuary for birds like puffins.

Duration: 2 hours
Price: from €24.00 per person
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 from 609 reviews on GetYourGuide
Languages: English
Operator: Howth Cliff Cruises

Highlights

• Discover the beauty of Ireland’s Eye and Howth’s coastline on a ferry ride
• Disembark on the island lush island that is home to puffins and cormorants
• Spend your free time going for a walk or taking a swim on the west beach
• Have the opportunity to see the early 19th-century Martello tower
• Sail with a local captain that makes your safety the number one priority

What to expect

September Sailing Schedule: Experience the best that Howth has to offer and explore the hidden gem that is Ireland’s Eye. We are the only ferry landing on the island! Landing finishes for the season on Sunday 27th Sept 2026 and will resume in April 2027. Duration: Ferry time approx 15/20 mins. Mon-Fri departure 11.15am, return 1pm. Once landed on Sat & Sun you can spend as long as you like on the island and return on any boat, last return ferry is at approx 4pm.

Step aboard the historic ferry to Ireland’s Eye, and engage in a beloved tradition in Howth dating back to 1947. Travel with a family-run business that has been passed down through generations, with the captain’s grandfather starting the ferry service to the picturesque island.

Meet your captain in Dublin’s Howth Harbor and set off on a ferry with a captain that learned the ins and outs of the business from his father. Experience the beauty of the Irish coastline and the magic of exploring the hidden gem of Ireland’s Eye island.

Enjoy a picturesque and tranquil journey across the waters of the Irish Sea. Admire stunning views of the rugged coastline and the iconic Howth Head cliffs as they make their way to the small, uninhabited island.

Land at the island (weather permitting) where able-bodied passengers can disembark along the adventurous steep steps carved into the rock. Go for a taking in the stunning views of the mainland and the ancient Martello tower, which dates back to the early 19th century.

Have the opportunity to go for a gorgeous sea swim in the clear waters on the west-facing beach. The island is home to a variety of bird species, including puffins, gannets, and cormorants, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.

After this unique and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, make the return journey to Dublin’s Howth Harbor.

What’s included

• Captain
• Return ferry journey
• Disembarkation on Ireland’s Eye
• Guide

Meeting point

Meet the crew at the top of the Howth Cliff Cruises pontoon at Howth Harbour.

Know before you go

• Landing on Ireland’s Eye is subject to favorable weather conditions and is at the discretion of the captain
• This tour takes place rain or shine, however, the tour may be canceled if there are exceedingly windy conditions
• Landing may not be suitable for all passengers as the landing stage is steep steps carved into the rock
• The island is a protected bird sanctuary and dogs are not allowed on the island. Please take any rubbish with you on the return journey and leave the island undisturbed as found
• Ferry time approx 15/20 mins. Once landed, you can spend as long as you like and return on any boat. Boats return every 1hr on the half hour e.g 10.30am, 11.30am etc.
• Bring: Comfortable shoes, Jacket, Rain gear, Comfortable clothes, Weather-appropriate clothing, Clothes that can get dirty, Outdoor clothing, Personal medication, Closed-toe shoes
• Not allowed: High-heeled shoes, Sandals or flip flops, Pets, Weapons or sharp objects, Oversize luggage, Baby strollers, Smoking, Luggage or large bags, Drones, Pets (assistance dogs allowed), Mobility scooters, Intoxication, Smoking in the vehicle, Drinks in the vehicle, Non-folding wheelchairs, Non-folding strollers, Smoking indoors, Bikes, Walking sticks, Alcohol and drugs, Walking frames, Glass objects, Littering, Cooler, Open-toed shoes, Unaccompanied minors, Baby carriages, Feeding animals, Electric wheelchairs, Touching marine life, Crutches, Skateboards, Scooter, Firework, Explosive substances, Alcoholic drinks in the vehicle, Skates, Touching animals, Making fire, Bare feet
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women, People with back problems, People with mobility impairments, Wheelchair users, People afraid of heights, People with vertigo, People over 80 years, People over 70 years

Check dates and prices

FAQs

How long is the Ferry from Howth to Ireland’s Eye Island?

2 hours.

How much does the Ferry from Howth to Ireland’s Eye Island cost?

From €24.00 per person on GetYourGuide. Check the widget above for live prices on your date.

Can I cancel?

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does it start?

Meet the crew at the top of the Howth Cliff Cruises pontoon at Howth Harbour.

What’s included?

Captain; Return ferry journey; Disembarkation on Ireland’s Eye; Guide.

Planning a visit? Ask Us!

Admire stunning views of Howth's coastline and Dublin Bay on short boat ride to the uninhabited island Ireland's Eye. Have free time to explore the island which is a sanctuary for birds like puffins.