In short
- Ireland's Eye ferries take 15 to 20 minutes from Howth.
- Landing tours for Ireland's Eye cost around €25 per adult.
- Both are known for coastal scenery and seabird colonies.
In this article
When planning a trip off the Dublin coast, you might compare Ireland's Eye and Lambay Island. We break down the accessibility, costs, and wildlife highlights of Ireland's Eye so you can decide which fits your schedule.
How do you get to the islands?
Ireland's Eye is a quick 15 to 20-minute boat ride from Howth Harbour.
You can reach Howth via a 30-minute DART train ride from Dublin city center. The train costs €2 to €4. The ferry departure point on the West Pier is just a 5-minute walk from the station.
How much does it cost to visit?
A landing tour for Ireland's Eye costs approximately €25 per adult.
Ferry prices change depending on the operator. There is no official entry fee for Ireland's Eye itself. You only pay for the boat transit. Ferry Ticket Prices
Which island is better for birdwatching?
Ireland's Eye is a designated Special Protection Area known for Atlantic puffins and gannets.
The best time to view nesting puffins on Ireland's Eye is between May and July. You can also spot grey seals in the shallow rocky waters. Dogs are banned to protect the ground-nesting birds.
What ruins can you explore?
Ireland's Eye features a 6th-century church and an early 19th-century Martello Tower.
You need about 15 minutes to see the Church of the Three Sons of Nessan. The Martello Tower dates back to around 1803. Both structures sit on the 28-hectare (69-acre) uninhabited island.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring Ireland's Eye.
Combined with the 30-minute DART ride from Dublin and the short ferry crossing, an Ireland's Eye trip takes roughly a half-day. Sailings depend heavily on weather and sea conditions.
Should I visit Ireland's Eye with kids?
Ireland's Eye offers a short ferry ride that suits families, though caution is needed.
There are steep cliff edges on the northern and eastern sides of Ireland's Eye. You must keep children on designated paths and away from cliffs. The island has no toilets or bins.
Questions travellers ask
Can you stay overnight on Ireland's Eye?
No. Ireland's Eye is completely uninhabited by humans and lacks facilities for overnight stays.
Are dogs allowed on Ireland's Eye?
No. Dogs are prohibited because the island is a sensitive bird sanctuary for ground-nesting species.
When do ferries run to Ireland's Eye?
Ferries typically operate from April to September. Sailings are heavily dependent on weather and sea conditions.
