Top 10 Dog-Friendly Boat Tours in Ireland (2023)
Updated On: February 04, 2024 | Published On: April 07, 2023
Are you looking for the pawfect way to spend a sunny day in Ireland with your furry best friend? Why not embark on a dog-friendly boat tour and explore the country's stunning coastlines together?
Not only will you both enjoy breathtaking views of the Emerald Isle's shoreline, but your pooch can also enjoy the wind in their fur as you cruise along the shimmering waters. From charming fishing villages to scenic nature reserves, Ireland's boat tours have something for every dog and their human.
So, grab your pup's leash, pack some treats, and don't forget to grab their food and water bowls, and join us on a journey to discover the 10 top dog-friendly boat tours in Ireland!
Looking for a boat tour where you can bring the pooch?
We've got you covered with 10 of the best dog-friendly boat tours around Ireland!
1. Island Ferries - Howth, Co. Dublin
Island Ferries departing for the quaint seaside town of Howth, offers three different cruises to select from.
Explore the treasures of Ireland's Eye, Howth Harbour, and Dublin Bay on the Ireland's Eye tour. Admire the spectacular views of the island, the Martello Tower, and the colony of seals and birds, including puffins. From April to September, there is also the option to land on the island, where you and your pup can take a swim in the clear waters or create your very own private picnic area on the sandy beaches. It's definitely worth packing lunch and spending an afternoon together like we did when we visited!
Experience a unique sunset cruise as you leave Howth Harbour to witness a different perspective of Dublin Bay. Departing from the West Pier in Howth, this spectacular cruise offers great photo opportunities and stunning views of Dublin from the sea.
Escape the crowds and experience the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Howth in Ireland's Ancient East from a unique perspective: the sea! Cruise along the cliffs to take in the breathtaking views of Dublin Bay, the Baily Lighthouse, Balscadden Bay, and Ireland's Eye.
Tours
- Ireland's Eye Tour
- Sunset Cruise
- Howth Cliffs Cruise
Sailing Season
- Daily sailings are offered during the summer season, however, during the off-season tours are run only on weekends and bank holidays
Seating Options
- Covered outdoor seating
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - All-sized dogs welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
2. Dublin Bay Cruises
Dublin, Co. Dublin
Dublin Bay Cruises is a family-owned business that offers tours (and private charter rentals) running around Dublin City, connecting Dun Laoghaire, Dublin Port, and Howth Harbours.
Dublin Bay Cruises is a family-owned business that offers tours (and private charter rentals) running around Dublin City, connecting Dun Laoghaire, Dublin Port, and Howth Harbours.
Known for their excellent service and running commentary on the captivating sights, marine life, and the importance of preserving the environment and wildlife, you will leave each cruise with a little more local history than when you came aboard.
While cruising Dublin Bay, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for common dolphins playing in the sea. They offer four unforgettable tours around the Dublin area, making a boat trip the perfect way to spend a day trip into the city with your pup. And don't forget to treat your pup to a puppuccino in the city after you finish!
Whether you're looking to explore Dublin's stunning coastline or visit the traditional fishing village of Howth and Ireland's Eye, you can take your furry friend along for the ride because dogs are welcome on all of their boats!
Tours
- Dublin City to Dun Laoghaire
- Dun Laoghaire to Dublin City
- Dublin City to Howth (via Dun Laoghaire)
- Dun Laoghaire to Howth
- Howth to Dun Laoghaire
- Howth to Ireland’s Eye (Return)
- Dun Laoghaire Dalkey Island Return
Sailing Season
- Tours run from March to the end of September
Seating Options
- Indoor and outdoor seating options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - All-sized dogs welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
3. Lily of Killarney
Killarney, Co. Kerry
Experience the beauty of Killarney National Park on the Lily of Killarney Lake Tour. From the comfort of the modern and heated glass-covered MV Watercoach, enjoy stunning views of the lakes, islands, and castles.
Depart from the 15th-century Ross Castle and pass by famous landmarks like the ruins of St. Finian's 6th-century monastery on Innisfallen Island and Ireland's highest mountain, Carrauntoohil. Learn about Irish history, the unique ecosystem of the area, and the local flora, including ancient oak and yew forests.
All good boys and girls are welcome on the Lily of Killarney, and the Killarney National Park is dog-friendly, so why not enjoy the miles of trails throughout the park and follow it up with a boat trip you will not forget?
Tours
- Lake Cruise
Sailing Season
- April - October
Seating Options
- Indoor heated seating options
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - All-sized dogs welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
4. Viking Tours Ireland
Athlone, Co. Westmeath
Viking Tours Ireland offers two dog-friendly tours: the Lough Ree Cruise and the Clonmacnoise Cruise.
As soon as you step aboard, you will transport yourself back 1,200 years and join the Vikings on an authentic replica Viking ship. You'll hear live commentary on Viking hoards, the river's natural beauty, and its unique flora, fauna, birds, and fish, making the tour an exciting adventure perfect for all age groups!
The Clonmacnoise Cruise navigates downstream on the River Shannon to the renowned, 6th-century Clonmacnoise monastery, while the Lough Ree Cruise leaves from Athlone Castle and navigates upstream and makes a stop at Hodson Bay.
On both cruises, you will be able to enjoy spectacular views of the Inland Waterways, enjoy an Irish coffee or two, and witness everything Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands has to offer.
Whether you're a chihuahua or a Great Dane, no paws should be left behind! So go ahead and hop aboard and have a howling good time!
Tours
- Lough Ree Cruise
- Clonmacnoise Cruise
Sailing Season
- Tours run from Easter to Halloween (weather permitting)
Seating Options
- Covered and uncovered options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - All-sized dogs welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
5. Killaloe River Cruises
Lakeside Drive Ballina, Killaloe, Co. Clare
Killaloe River Cruises are the best way to explore the iconic River Shannon and Lough Derg. The friendly staff are more than happy to share their local knowledge, and you can relax and take in the breathtaking scenery of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands. You will depart from Lakeside Drive Ballina and enjoy the one-hour cruise on the calm waters of Lough Derg, which is sheltered by the Slieve Bernagh and Arra Mountains.
Their purpose-built passenger boat has two decks. The upper deck has seating for all passengers and is a great way to fully enjoy the breathtaking views of not only nature but also of the charming towns of Killaloe and Ballina. The lower deck is fully heated and has large panoramic windows for a great view. Unwind with a drink from their bar, and treat yourself to an Irish Coffee while immersed in the stunning surroundings.
They are more than happy to welcome your well-behaved four-legged friend on board!
Tours
- Killaloe River Cruises
Seating Options
- Indoor and outdoor seating options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - All-sized dogs welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
6. The Doolin Ferry Co.
Doolin, Co. Clare
Enjoy the spectacular sight of the Wild Atlantic Way from the sea. The Doolin Ferry Company offers three main routes and tours: the Cliffs of Moher tour as well as a fast ferry from Doolin to different stops on the Aran Islands.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the iconic and world-famous cliffs on the Cliffs of Moher tour. Discovering the cliffs from the sea is a truly unique way to discover the rich wildlife, captivating nature, and fascinating history of the West of Ireland's coastline. Witness Ireland's largest seabird colony at An Branán Mór (Sea Stack) and the famous sea caves, including the one featured in 'Harry Potter & the Half-Blood Prince'.
You can also explore the Aran Islands by ferry, located only 48 km from Galway City, but only 8 km from Doolin Pier. There are ferries that go out to Inis Mór, Inis Oírr, and Inis Meáin where you can enjoy everything from walks, bike trails, swimming, and fishing to glamping and fine dining.
Don't leave your pup behind! All boat tours and ferry rides are dog-friendly. The Cliffs of Moher also welcome dogs (just not in the visitor centre) and if you are looking to do some glamping on the Aran Islands there are even some glampsites that accept dogs.
Tours
- Cliffs of Moher Tour
- Doolin to Inis Mór
- Doolin to Inis Oírr
- Doolin to Inis Meáin
Sailing Season
- March to November 2023
Seating Options
- Indoor and outdoor seating options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - Most family dogs are welcome
- Lead - Dog owners are asked to keep their pup on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
7. Blasket Island Ferries
Dunquin, Co. Kerry
Experience the remote and unspoiled beauty of Great Blasket Island, the most westerly land in Europe, and its diverse wildlife, including breeding seabirds such as puffins and grey seals. Take a ferry with a local guide from Cé Dhún Chaoin/Dunquin Pier and enjoy an unforgettable day on the island.
For all the movie buffs, while crossing from Dunquin Pier to the Great Blasket Island, you will catch a glimpse of the filming location for Star Wars: The Last Jedi at Dunmore Head. You will also spot Ceann Sibeal/Sybil Head, where the replica Beehive Huts were constructed for Luke Skywalker's hermitage on Acho-To.
It is very important to note that there are no toilet facilities on the island. You are also advised to bring a packed lunch, water, insect repellent, and light rain gear. Trips are available for adults and children over 7 years of age.
Blasket Island Ferries is delighted to welcome medium and small dogs aboard the boats, as for the final part of the journey, all passengers need to be transported on a small, 8-person rib to the island. It is too difficult for the staff to lift larger dogs in and out of the vessel. While on the island, it is also best that dogs are kept on a leash so as not to disturb local wildlife such as sheep and local seal colonies on the beach.
Tours
- Dunquin Pier to Blasket Island
Sailing Season
- April 18 to September 21, 2023
Seating Options
- Indoor and outdoor seating options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - Small and medium-sized dogs welcome (maximum size is that of a Border Collie)
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
8. Skellig Tours
Bealtra Caherdaniel, Co. Kerry
Discover the wonders of Ireland's stunning coastlines and wildlife with Skellig's exciting boat tours. There are four enjoyable experiences to choose from, including the Skellig Islands landing tour, where you will get the chance to explore Skellig Michael and the ancient monastery of the monks. There is also a non-landing eco-tour that includes a visit to both Skellig Michael and the Little Skellig Gannet colony, home to various seabirds such as cormorants, puffins, and storm petrels.
For a different experience, join them on the Bull Rock trip, where they will take you on a scenic wildlife tour to the historic Bull Rock, passing by the Beara peninsula and Dursey Island, and, weather permitting, through the natural tunnel carved into Bull Rock. This trip is known for encountering an abundance of wildlife, ranging from dolphins and whales to a variety of different sea birds.
Finally, they offer a dolphin-watching trip, where you can spot common dolphins, humpbacks, and minke whales on a two-hour cruise past the wild Atlantic headlands.
All dogs are welcome on this wonderful trip, and the captain promises an unforgettable experience and stunning views of Ireland's natural beauty.
Tours
- Skellig landing tours
- Skellig non-landing eco tours
- Bull Rock trips
- Dolphin watching trips
Sailing Season
- From May
Seating Options
- Covered and uncovered outdoor seating options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - Large dogs are welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
9. Harbour Queen Ferry
Glengarriff, Co. Cork
Harbour Queen Ferry has been operating in Glengarriff since 1970 and offers visitors an opportunity to explore Garnish Island, a world-renowned destination situated in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay. These tours run daily from April 1 to October 31 and departs from the pier, taking approximately 15 minutes to reach the island, with 90 minutes being the recommended amount of time for this fantastic trip.
During the trip, visitors may be lucky enough to see seals and the resident nesting sea eagles, which occasionally fly out of their nests. The tour also includes an extended stop at Seal Island.
All-sized dogs are welcome on board, as long as they are kept on a leash at all times and muzzled if required. So go ahead and grab your furry friend's leash, pack some treats, and hop on board for an adventure of a lifetime.
While out exploring County Cork, we highly suggest you stop and eat lunch at a dog-friendly restaurant.
Tours
- Garnish Island
Sailing Season
- From April 1 to October 31
Seating Options
- Covered and indoor seating options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - Large dogs are welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead and in their seats at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
10. Kenmare Bay Boat Tours
The Pier, Kenmare, Co. Kerry. Ireland
Embark on a thrilling adventure with Kenmore Bay Boat Tours in Kerry and immerse yourself in the breathtaking sights of Kenmare Bay. As you cruise along the bay's 30-mile stretch, you'll encounter an array of captivating wildlife, from playful seals to elusive foxes and otters, even glimpses of goats.
Feast your eyes upon the majestic landscape that surrounds you, with the magnificent Caha Mountains adorning the southern side and the awe-inspiring Macgillicuddy Reeks gracing the northern side of the bay. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with natural wonders and panoramic vistas.
All well-behaved dogs (both big and small) are welcome on the boat but must stay on a lead at all times.
Tours
Embark on a thrilling adventure with Kenmore Bay Boat Tours in Kerry and immerse yourself in the breathtaking sights of Kenmare Bay. As you cruise along the bay's 30-mile stretch, you'll encounter an array of captivating wildlife, from playful seals to elusive foxes and otters, even glimpses of goats.
Feast your eyes upon the majestic landscape that surrounds you, with the magnificent Caha Mountains adorning the southern side and the awe-inspiring Macgillicuddy Reeks gracing the northern side of the bay. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with natural wonders and panoramic vistas.
All well-behaved dogs (both big and small) are welcome on the boat but must stay on a lead at all times.
Tours
- Kenmare Bay Tour
Sailing Season
- From April 1 to October 31
Seating Options
- Covered and indoor seating options are available
Pet Policy
- Dog Size - Large dogs are welcome
- Lead - Must be kept on a lead and in their seats at all times
- Other - Dogs must be well-behaved and under control or muzzled if required
The summer months in Ireland offer a fantastic opportunity to experience some of the best dog-friendly boat tours the country has to offer. These tours provide an unrivalled view of Ireland's stunning coastline, islands, and wildlife. Whether you're looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing day out, there's a boat tour to suit every taste.
So, if you're planning an Ireland tour with your four-legged companion, be sure to check out some of the best dog-friendly boat tours on offer. You and your dog will have the time of your lives, exploring the breathtaking scenery and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience Ireland's beauty from a different perspective on one of the best dog-friendly boat tours the country has to offer.
Are you planning a dog-friendly holiday? Be sure to tag @PawsFriendly on your next trip out with your pup.
While you are enjoying your vacation with the family pet, enjoy the local culture by eating and drinking out in dog-friendly restaurants, cafés, and bars, all of which, and more, you can easily discover on our website.
Did we miss your favorite dog-friendly restaurant? Share your favorite places to dine inside with your pup with us by tagging us on Instagram @pawsfriendly or you can email us at info@pawsfriendly.com.
While you are enjoying your vacation with the family pet, enjoy the local culture by eating and drinking out in dog-friendly restaurants, cafés, and bars, all of which, and more, you can easily discover on our website.
Did we miss your favorite dog-friendly restaurant? Share your favorite places to dine inside with your pup with us by tagging us on Instagram @pawsfriendly or you can email us at info@pawsfriendly.com.
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