Dingle Boat Tours: A Scenic Dingle Day Trip by Sea
€70
10 years upwards
Max 12 persons
Up to 7 hours
Dingle Boat Tours for a Relaxed Day Trip to Dingle
Dates for our special Dingle Day Trip will be released throughout the season, in line with weather and sea conditions.
Dates for our Dingle boat tours are released throughout the season and scheduled in line with weather and sea conditions, ensuring each sailing offers a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable day on the water.
This Dingle day trip travels by sea from Valentia Island to Dingle town, offering a scenic alternative to the long drive around the peninsula. Rather than a circular sightseeing route, this experience is designed as a shared coastal crossing that connects two of Kerry’s most iconic harbours by water, allowing guests to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
As the boat departs Valentia Island and enters the open sea, the coastline of the Dingle Peninsula gradually comes into view. The crossing unfolds across Dingle Bay, where changing light, sea conditions, and coastal contours shape each journey differently. This relaxed pace creates an experience that feels unhurried and immersive, offering a genuine sense of travel by sea rather than a fixed tour schedule.
Along the way, dolphins are often seen moving through the bay, sometimes surfacing close to the boat, while seabirds follow familiar routes across the water. These wildlife encounters are never guaranteed, but they are a natural part of many crossings and add a sense of anticipation to the experience.
Dingle Day Trip Enquiry
Dingle Day Tours Across the Dingle Peninsula by Sea
Travelling by boat offers a distinctive way to experience the Dingle Peninsula, revealing its scale and character from the water rather than the road. These Dingle day tours are shaped by the sea itself, with routes and timings adjusted to suit conditions on the day, creating a flexible and comfortable journey.
The crossing highlights the contrast between sheltered bay waters and the open Atlantic, offering views of headlands, inlets, and the wider peninsula as the boat approaches Dingle. This perspective allows guests to appreciate why this coastline is considered one of Ireland’s most breathtaking seascapes, shaped by wind, tide, and time.
As part of a wider range of Dingle tours by sea, this day trip focuses on steady travel, scenic observation, and time ashore, rather than fast-paced sightseeing. The result is an experience that balances the journey itself with the freedom to explore Dingle town once you arrive.
Dingle Boat Tours with Wildlife and Sea Safari Moments
Wildlife plays an important role in shaping the atmosphere of this Dingle boat tour. Dolphins are a regular presence in Dingle Bay, often travelling in small groups and appearing unexpectedly alongside the boat. These moments create a gentle sea safari feel without turning the crossing into a structured wildlife excursion.
In addition to dolphins, seabirds are frequently seen gliding low over the sea or gathering near feeding areas within the bay. The surrounding waters support a wide variety of marine life, and each crossing offers a slightly different experience depending on wildlife activity and sea conditions.
This natural approach to wildlife observation ensures the journey remains calm and respectful, allowing guests to enjoy the experience without disrupting the marine environment.
A Flexible Dingle Day Trip with Time to Explore Ashore
Upon arrival at Dingle Harbour, guests step directly from the boat into the heart of town. From here, the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Dingle is known for its lively streets, welcoming cafés, independent shops, and strong food culture, all within easy walking distance of the marina.
Whether you choose a relaxed lunch, a stroll along the harbourfront, or time spent exploring local galleries and distilleries, this Dingle day trip allows ample time ashore before the return crossing. The flexibility of the schedule means you can shape the experience around your own interests, making it suitable for a wide range of travellers.
Bespoke Boat Tours Aboard the Skellig Bounty
All Dingle boat tours operate aboard the Skellig Bounty, one of Ireland’s first sustainable vessels designed for small-group experiences at sea. These bespoke boat tours prioritise comfort, stability, and responsible travel, ensuring a smooth journey across both bay and open sea.
The Skellig Bounty is well suited to this type of crossing, offering reliable performance in varying conditions while maintaining a relaxed onboard atmosphere. Operating as one of the boat tours available along this stretch of coast, the vessel supports an experience that feels personal, considered, and closely connected to the surrounding environment.
Experience Highlights
Eco-Friendly Skellig Bounty
Travel aboard the Skellig Bounty, one of Ireland’s first sustainable boats, purpose-built for comfortable and responsible travel at sea. Designed for stability and small groups, the vessel offers a relaxed experience while minimising impact on the marine environment.
Dingle’s Colourful Streets
Step off the boat and into the heart of Dingle town. Wander through its lively streets, where independent shops, cafés, and galleries reflect the character and creativity the town is known for.
Award-Winning Distilleries
Dingle is home to renowned distilleries producing locally crafted whiskey and gin. With the marina just steps away, there is time to visit, sample, or simply learn more about this important part of the town’s culture.
Harbour Charm
Soak up the atmosphere of Dingle Harbour, where fishing boats, coastal scenery, and everyday life come together along the waterfront. Dolphins are often seen moving through the harbour and nearby waters, adding to the sense of place.
Live Irish Music
Dingle is famous for its traditional music scene. From relaxed afternoon sessions to lively evenings, many pubs host local musicians, offering an authentic and welcoming experience for visitors.
Gourmet Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood and local produce at Dingle’s well-known restaurants and cafés. Whether you prefer a casual lunch or a longer evening meal, the town offers plenty of options within easy walking distance of the harbour.
In Preparation for the Trip
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, please review the following guidance before departure. These Dingle day tours take place by boat across Dingle Bay and open sea, so a little preparation helps ensure comfort and safety for everyone on board.
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Ensure your contact details are correct, including email address and full phone number with country code.
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Guests must be reachable up to 72 hours before departure in case we need to contact you regarding weather or scheduling.
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This Dingle day trip involves travel across Dingle Bay and the Atlantic, so please be prepared for open sea conditions.
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Guests are advised to allow extra travel time to reach the departure point.
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Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for boarding and safety checks.
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It is recommended to check the weather forecast the night before your boat trip.
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Dress for changing conditions at sea and bring light, warm layers where possible.
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Closed footwear is essential on board. Flip-flops, Crocs, and open shoes are not permitted.
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Bring a small water bottle for the duration of the journey.
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A digital copy of your booking confirmation is required on arrival.
These boat trips are planned carefully around sea and weather conditions, with your skipper confirming timings in advance to ensure a safe and comfortable day on the water.
Dingle Day Trip Map and Departure Point
This Dingle day trip departs from Knightstown Marina on Valentia Island, a sheltered harbour well positioned for safe access to Dingle Bay and surrounding waters. From here, the crossing follows a scenic route across the bay, with the skipper adjusting the journey to suit sea conditions on the day.
The arrival point is Dingle Harbour, located at Dingle Marina, where guests step directly into the centre of town. This makes the experience easy to combine with time ashore, whether you are exploring independently or planning a longer stay as part of a wider Private and Group Boat Tours itinerary along the Kerry coast.
This route also complements other experiences by sea, including the Marine Wildlife Tour, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy different perspectives of the coastline on separate days.
From departure to arrival, this Dingle day trip brings together travel by sea, coastal scenery, and time ashore in one of Ireland’s most distinctive harbour towns, all shaped by weather, wildlife, and the natural rhythm of the bay.
Per Person
€70
Dingle Day Trip Enquiry
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Exclusive Dingle Ferry Experience.
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Departs from Knightstown Marina, Valentia Island.
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Breathtaking Dingle Bay Views.
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Expert Local Crew
Hear from Our Happy Adventurers
EXCELLENT Based on 155 reviews Posted on Russell PendockTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An Absolute Must-Do Experience! We had the most incredible day out with AquaTerra Boat Tours! From start to finish, Elizabeth and Brendan were amazing hosts — friendly, knowledgeable, and so passionate about the Skellig Islands and the surrounding area. The boat was extremely comfortable, spacious, and clearly very well maintained, which made the journey so enjoyable. The commentary was fantastic — informative, and full of fascinating stories about the history, wildlife, and local life. Seeing the Skellig Islands up close was absolutely breathtaking — a true highlight of our trip to Ireland. If you’re visiting this area, this tour is a must-do. You won’t find a better way to experience the beauty and magic of the Skelligs!Posted on Paula O'MeliaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend!Posted on LaurenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This tour was fantastic. The boat was comfortable and Brendan and Elizabeth were lovely. Elizabeth has clearly put a TON of work into her historical/geological/animal research and the love and care very much shows. The ride was surprisingly smooth for October. 11/10 do this.Posted on Lee HusseyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Elizabeth and Brendan were amazing! The in depth of the history of Valentia Island was amazing.. I would highly recommend and will be booking the Skeig Michael tour with Aqua TerraPosted on Margerite Mc CooeyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Elizabeth and Brendan, their warm hospitality and extensive knowledge made our tour something special. The thoughtfully designed tours immerse you in the stunning landscapes whilst emphasising conservation. Kerry Aqua Terra is a labor of love that beautifully reflects its surroundings and the dedication of its owners. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Kerry's natural wonders in a fun and exciting approach! We look forward to visiting again next year! Margerite, Co ArmaghPosted on Gemma McCooeyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing experience with Elizabeth & Brendan - they are the best hosts! Highly recommend for anyone visiting. So enjoyable 🙌🏻☘️ Thanks guys, we can’t wait to visit again soon.Posted on jean-christophe adamoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Une superbe excursion Des sensations sur le trajets et nous avons adoré la beauté le l île. Le capitaine et son adjointe etaient très sympa. Que du positifPosted on Miriam VennTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Die Skellig Michael Landing Tour war sehr gut organisiert und professionell durchgeführt. Tourguide und Kapitän waren sehr freundlich und hilfsbereit. Wir haben uns zu jeder Zeit gut aufgehoben gefühlt und hatten eine tolle Zeit auf der Insel sowie bei der Umrundung. Das Boot ist modern und vergleichsweise schnell. Im Unterschied zu den anderen Booten, die die Insel besucht haben, saßen wir zu jeder Zeit trocken. Wir können die Tour uneingeschränkt empfehlen.Posted on Philippa BrennanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just an incredible experience. Took part in a Skellig Michael landing tour, booked via a third party. Was extremely lucky to find myself onboard the Skellig Bounty! As others have mentioned, the boat is brand new - and frankly miles above the other boats I saw that operate on this route for the same prices. The seats were incredibly comfortable and there was space to stand out the back for better views if you wished. Elizabeth & Brendan were wonderful hosts - equal parts friendly, informative, fun yet safety-focused. At all times I felt safe, comfortable and happy during my time with them. I cannot say enough good things and would highly recommend this company. To top it all off, they even made sure we had good weather and saw a pod of dolphins on our way back....just going above and beyond....!