Tour operator
Pat Liddy’s Walking Tours
Guided walking tours of Dublin founded by historian and author Pat Liddy, with public tours in several languages and private themed walks.
Dublin Discovered Boat Tours
A 45-minute guided cruise along the River Liffey from the Sean O'Casey Footbridge on Custom House Quay, with a guide telling the story of the river.
At a glance
- Type
- River Liffey boat tour
- Area
- Docklands, Dublin, Ireland
- Official site
- dublindiscovered.ie
Good to know
- 45-minute cruise
- Live guide
- Online booking
Why we recommend it
Dublin Discovered Boat Tours offers a 45-minute guided cruise along the River Liffey, the river that divides Dublin into its north and south sides. A guide on board tells the history of the river and the city as you pass a series of landmark buildings, making it an easy and relaxing introduction to Dublin, particularly on your first day.
Cruises depart from the Sean O'Casey Footbridge on Custom House Quay in the Docklands, close to the Custom House and the CHQ building, home of EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. The commentary helps to connect the places you see from the water with the stories behind them.
At 45 minutes, the cruise is short enough to fit into a busy day and suits almost everyone, including families with children, older visitors and anyone who wants to rest their legs between sights. It is a good way to see the bridges and quays from a different angle, and it pairs naturally with a visit to EPIC, the Jeanie Johnston famine ship replica or the Docklands area. Photographers will appreciate the views of the riverside architecture.
Book online through the company's website, where you can choose a date and time; sailings depend on the season and weather, so check availability before you go. Arrive at the departure point a little early so you can board without rushing. Bring a waterproof jacket, as Irish weather can change quickly, and dress warmly outside the summer months. If you have mobility needs, contact the company before booking to ask about boarding.
For enquiries, call +353 1 473 0000. From the city centre, Custom House Quay is a short walk east along the north quays from O'Connell Bridge, and the Luas Red Line stops nearby at George's Dock and Busáras. Combine the cruise with a walk along the quays to Samuel Beckett Bridge and the Grand Canal Dock area, or with lunch in the Docklands, to make a half-day out on the river side of the city.
Taking the cruise early in your stay is a good way to get your bearings, as the river makes the layout of the city easy to understand. Afterwards you will recognise the main bridges and quays when you explore on foot, which helps when planning the rest of your days.
Dublin Discovered Boat Tours FAQs
How long is the Dublin Discovered boat tour?
The cruise lasts 45 minutes.
Where does it depart?
From the Sean O'Casey Footbridge on Custom House Quay, Dublin 1.
Is there a guide?
Yes, a guide on board shares the history of the river and the city.
How do I book?
Book online through the Dublin Discovered website.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the short duration suits families with children.
What is nearby?
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Custom House and the Jeanie Johnston are close to the departure point.
What should I wear?
Bring a waterproof jacket and dress warmly outside summer.
How do I contact the company?
Call +353 1 473 0000.