In short
- Take the DART train (30 minutes) or Dublin Bus (45-60 minutes) to Howth.
- Walk 5 minutes from Howth station to the West Pier.
- Catch a 15-minute ferry from the pier to the island.
In this article
Getting to the island requires a two-step journey. You first travel from Dublin to the coastal village of Howth, then board a boat for the final crossing. The routes are direct, cheap, and run regularly.
How do you get to Howth from Dublin by train?
The DART train is the fastest route, taking 30 minutes from Dublin city center to Howth station.
Trains run frequently throughout the day. Tickets cost between €2 and €4 each way. Howth is the final stop on the northbound DART line, making it easy to navigate. Once you exit the station, you are already at the harbor.
Which bus goes to Howth from Dublin?
You can take Dublin Bus routes H3 or 6 from the city center to Howth village.
The bus journey takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. It costs around €2 per trip. This route is slower than the DART but offers a scenic drive through Dublin's coastal suburbs.
Where do ferries to Ireland's Eye depart from?
Boats leave from the West Pier at Howth Harbour, just a 5-minute walk from the DART station.
Local operators run regular trips from April through September. Look for the small boats tied along the pier. You cover the 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) crossing in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Do I need to book the boat in advance?
Booking ahead secures your spot, as small boats have limited capacity.
Ferry tickets cost around €25 per adult. Sailings depend heavily on weather and sea conditions. If the weather is poor, operators will cancel trips. Always check the forecast before you travel to Howth.
Can I see the island without landing on it?
Yes, coastal boat tours cruise around the island and nearby cliffs without dropping passengers ashore.
If you prefer not to walk on uneven ground, book a sightseeing cruise. These trips last about 50 minutes. You can see the seabird colonies and the Martello Tower directly from the water.
Questions travellers ask
How long does the ferry to Ireland's Eye take?
The boat crossing from Howth Harbour takes about 15 to 20 minutes each way.
How much is the boat to Ireland's Eye?
Landing tours generally cost around €25 per adult. Prices change based on the operator and platform.
Is there a toilet on Ireland's Eye?
No, the island has no facilities. You must use the public toilets in Howth before boarding the ferry.
