I Spent the Day Kayaking in Dublin and These Routes Made It Unforgettable
For some reason, I’ve always thought of kayaking as a fancy sport or an activity you do during vacation at a resort. I didn’t know you could do it right or near the city centre. So when I learned about kayaking in Dublin, I couldn’t pass up the chance.
I didn’t have the gear, so I was scared I would miss this golden opportunity. Thank goodness the tours I contacted provided the essentials! Booking and joining sessions were so easy, all I needed to do was choose a place and show up!
If you’re looking for a fun, stress-free way of rediscovering the city, gliding on water trails might just be for you. Whether you’re a pro at kayaking or just a beginner, here are the best spots and tips that’ll help you begin your journey!
Best Kayaking Routes in Dublin
River Liffey
– Media credit: visitdublin
I’ve always just walked by the River Liffey and never thought of kayaking through it. So when I found out that it’s actually a popular kayaking spot, I decided to give it a try. I booked a tour with City Kayaking, and everything went smoothly from there.
Since I was new to it, I didn’t have the gear, thankfully, the tour included a paddle, a kayak, and a flotation device. The guides were also friendly, making the experience enjoyable and comfortable.
We paddled for 90 minutes under the Ha’Penny and the O’Connell bridges, which made me so glad I booked the tour, cause I got to see the city in a new light. City Kayaking also offers a Music Under the Bridges Tour, which is perfect for folks visiting Dublin.
Dalkey Island
– Media credit: kayaking.ie
Kayaking in Dalkey Island was much more than the scenic view. I enjoyed the calm waters alongside the occasional seals popping up alongside us. I toured with Kayaking and it lasted approximately 3 hours (I enjoyed every second of it!).
We started at Bullock Harbour, where Dalkey Island slowly came into view. Throughout the journey, I saw seals lounging on rocks and seabirds flying overhead. When we reached the island, we were greeted with old ruins and the Martello tower.
Kayaking in Dalkey Island was a relaxing break from the city with its rich wildlife, picturesque views, and calm waters.
Howth and Ireland’s Eye
– Media credit: visitdublin
I loved kayaking in Howth cause it’s near Dublin (14km north of the city) and very much accessible. The views towards Ireland’s Eye were breathtaking, and that, coupled with the calm sea, made the paddle easy.
Our guide from Portobello Adventure took us from Sutton to the Baily Lighthouse, where we took a rest at a small beach. We passed cliffs, spotted seals sunbathing on rocks, and fish beneath crystal-clear water!
With the rich sea life and beautiful coastal scene, Kayaking in Howth is one of my favourite kayaking routes.
Grand Canal and Royal Canal
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The Grand Canal is perfect for beginner kayakers. It’s calmer than the open sea and has a relaxed vibe along Portobello’s leafy streets and bridges, perfect for chill paddles. It has a quiet atmosphere that helped soothe my mind.
I toured with Surfdock Watersports, and we glided along for three (extremely enjoyable) hours. With an experienced guide and the included kayaking essentials, all I had to do was paddle and appreciate the view.
The canal runs through central Dublin and is conveniently located near the city centre, making it not only beginner-friendly but also easily accessible.
Dun Laoghaire
– Media credit: visitdublin
Dun Laoghaire is the best place for a mini adventure. Just 11km south of the city centre, its calm waters are ideal for beginners. I booked a rental with Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School, and they provided all the essentials, so I was up and ready to go.
Though the route is sheltered and the journey relaxed, the trip was never dull. I enjoyed the scenic views without fumbling too much, unlike on more experienced kayak tours.
I paddled peacefully and marvelled at the Marina’s majestic view. Overall, kayaking in Dun Laoghaire was a fun and soothing experience.
Beginner-Friendly Kayaking Classes
Canoeing Ireland
– Media credit: canoeingireland
Website: https://www.canoe.ie/
Contact: +353 (0)1 625 1105, [email protected]
Address: Irish Sport HQ, Sport Ireland Campus, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15
Canoeing Ireland offers beginner lessons and guided sessions, ranging from €40 to €250. With paddle camps and introductory paddle sport sessions, beginners and seasoned kayakers can hone their skills.
Wild Water Kayak Club
– Media credit: real_wwkc
Website: https://www.wwkc.net/
Contact: [email protected], [email protected]
Address: Wild Water Kayak Club, Lower Rd, Chapelizod, Dublin 20, Ireland
The Wild Water Kayak Club offers amazing introductory courses in kayaking. Their courses are easy to understand and especially designed to bring your skills to level 2.
Led by certified instructors, students can learn tried-and-tested techniques and maintain optimal safety as they paddle.
Unique Experiences on Dublin’s Waterways
Night Kayaking
I think the key to getting the hang of kayaking is by learning it in a calm environment. Night kayaking sounds terrifying, but with the beautiful view of the gently illuminated strawberry beds, the experience just turns magical.
Canoeing Ireland and Wild Water Kayak Club both offer evening kayaking near Lucan and on the Liffey River. The courses are headed by seasoned guides, so there’s no need to worry!
Wildlife Spotting
Dalkey Island and Howth showcase stunning natural views and a refreshing environment. Besides those, they also boast rich wildlife. If you want to glide along with seals and seabirds, these spots are the perfect kayaking routes for you!
Handy Tips Before You Kayak in Dublin
How to Book:
With plenty of kayaking tours, including Portobello Adventure, Wild Water Kayak Club, and Canoeing Ireland, it’s easy to book a tour near accessible places. However, it’s best to book online, especially during the warmer months when the sport is extra popular.
Gear and Preparation:
Most kayaking tour operators provide the necessary equipment, like a kayak and paddle, plus safety gear. To be safe, you can enhance your preparation by wearing comfy, weather-resistant clothes.
It’s also important to remember essential safety tips, such as wearing a buoyancy aid at all times, knowing how to swim, and never straying away from your kayak group.
Best Time to Kayak:
The best time to kayak in Dublin is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) since the weather is milder and water conditions are calmer. It’s during these times, too, that evening tours are popular for beautiful sunset views.