County Dublin, Ireland
Explore this uninhabited island reserve off the coast of Howth. See 6th-century ruins and thousands of nesting seabirds.
4.6 from 118 traveller reviews on Viator
Tickets & tours
Select a direct landing ferry or a scenic coastal cruise.
Most bookedThe ferry to Ireland’s Eye is a picturesque and tranquil journey across the waters of the Irish Sea. Passengers can enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline and the...
Top ratedJoin us in the most beautiful Dublin coastal village of Howth. Onboard our small boats we get up close to Ireland's Eye Island, caves and marine life in the world famous...
Best valueThousands of people flood to Howth every year to see Howth Cliffs and walk or hike the cliffs. Our cruises allow for people to experience Howth Cliff like never before,...
Explore
Discover historical structures and protected wildlife habitats.
May to July is the best time to see nesting Atlantic puffins.
Thousands of seabirds breed on the island's steep cliffs.
Plan your visit
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the island.
Ferries operate from April to September, weather permitting.
Ferries depart from Howth Harbour, a 30-minute train ride from Dublin.
Landing tours generally start around €25 per adult.
Ireland's Eye is a 28-hectare island sitting just 1.6 kilometers off the coast of Howth. It operates as a vital nature reserve and Special Protection Area. Humans do not live here, but thousands of seabirds do.
Visitors arrive by boat to view the Nature & Wildlife, including breeding puffins and gannets. Grey seals frequently swim in the shallow rocky waters surrounding the island.
The island also features notable Historical Ruins. You can walk to the remains of a 6th-century monastic church and an 1804 Martello Tower. Learn more in our Ferry Ticket Prices guide.
We clarify which boats drop you off and which stay on the water.
We explain how sea conditions affect schedules and route changes.
We list current starting prices for ferries and combo tickets.
From Viator
118 reviews of the ireland's eye ferry on Viator
Have lived in Dublin all my life and for the past 20 years have been saying I must do the trip to irelands Eye. Have done it today and have had the best day ever will be doing this trip again.
Nice day in the water, howth is a beautiful place and to see the coast view from the water is much better.
It was the perfect length of a boat tour around the island. Our guide dealt with the choppy waters due to the winds very well. She made sure to point out all animals in sight and gave us pointers on where to look along with the facts about the species.
We had such a great experience with Irelands Eyes Ferries. Shane was a fun, informative guide but also sensitive to the fact that we were spreading my Mum’s ashes. Would highly recommend their service and enjoyed seeing around Irelands Eye.
Great trip. Turlock was a super guide, friendly and knowledgeable. 5 Stars
Really enjoyed this experience and it was a nice length. Able to see wildlife up close
Travel tips
Ferry Ticket PricesFind out how much it costs to book Ireland's eye ferry tickets.Read 
Travel DirectionsDirections to Howth and ferries to Ireland's Eye.Read 
Best Visit TimesFind the best months to see puffins and wildlife on Ireland's Eye.Read 
Fun for Kids?Plan a family trip to Ireland's Eye with safety and boat ride tips.Read 
Ireland's Eye PackingFind out exactly what to wear and pack for your island trip.Read 
Island ComparisonComparing Ireland's Eye and Lambay Island for your Dublin trip.Read Yes, you can walk around the island. You must stay on the designated paths to protect ground-nesting birds. Be very careful near the cliff edges on the northern and eastern sides.
No, dogs are not allowed on the island. Ireland's Eye is a sensitive bird sanctuary and Special Protection Area. Dogs can easily disturb the nesting seabirds.
The ferry ride takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes each way. Boats depart from the West Pier in Howth Harbour.
Ferry operators generally charge around €25 per adult for a landing tour. Shorter coastal cruises without landing cost similar amounts. Read Tickets for exact options.
Yes, Atlantic puffins burrow and nest on the island's steep cliffs. The best time to see them is during their breeding season, between mid-May and mid-July.
No, there are no toilets or facilities of any kind on the island. You must use the facilities in Howth before boarding your ferry.
Book your ferry or boat tour in advance, especially during the summer breeding season.
