Dublin Bay mini cruise

Dublin - Howth: 12 nm
Howth - Dun Laoghaire: 13 nm
Dun Laoghaire - Dublin: 11 nm

Dublin
The broad expanse of Dublin Bay provides a fantastic introduction to the visitor, where a wealth of attractions and amenities await. Dublin is one of the few cities in Europe that has such a bay on its very own doorstep. Dublin (Dubh Linn-Irish for Black Pool) is on the banks of the River Liffey which enters the bay and port at the Poolbeg lighthouse.This capital, bustling city has a great combination of history, culture and entertainment. Sample a pint of the famous 'black stuff', Guinness, at the brewery or in Temple Bar, the city's trendy and cultural district off the central south quays. For the literaryinclined the James Joyce centre is located on Parnell Square. Stroll across the cobble square in Trinity College and see the magnificent 'Book of Kells'. Nearby walk along the most fashionable Grafton Street while neighbouring art galleries and museums are located of St. Stephens and Merrion Squares.The main thoroughfare on O'Connell Street is where the Irish Easter Rising took place, in particular the G.P.O. or General Post Office.The street is named after James Connolly, one of the rebel leaders. The splendid Custom House on the quays is near the financial district known as the IFSC and the vibrancy of the city is keenly felt in this rejuvenated area known as the 'Docklands' where business and pleasure mix. Downriver is Poolbeg Marina located beyond the East-Link Toll Bridge on the south quays. When using the port and bay, be aware of fast ferries and pilot boats at speed and note that a Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) is in operation and based around the Dublin Bay Buoy.

Dun Laoghaire
Across the bay are the all embracing harbour arms of Dun Laoghaire. When built in 1821, it was the largest artificially constructed harbour in the World.The harbour is the leading centre in Ireland for yachting and boating. Four yacht clubs line the waterfront. Dun Laoghaire was once named Kingstown after the visit of King George IV; today the legacy of that era is reflected in elegant Georgian architecture throughout this popular and attractive seaside town. Georges Street has many shops, pubs and restaurants to choose from.The Pavilion Theatre hosts the annual Festival of World Cultures and nearby is the James Joyce Tower at Sandycove.The tower is where the first chapter of 'Ulysses' is set.The fast ferry (HSS) from Holyhead docks adjacent to the marina - take caution to the wash generated.This does not affect the sheltered internal harbour of the marina that is well buoyed to and lit. Due south of Dun Laoghaire is Dalkey Sound and Island. Sail down this scenic stretch that passes a coastline known as Dublin's Riviera. Many celebrities reside in secluded mansions. Celebrities include rock band U2, Enya,Van Morrison, film director Neil Jordan, novelist Meave Binchy and playwright Hugh Leonard.Anchor in the sound with the island's Martello Tower above or to take in all this stardom, anchor off Dublin's most prestigious coastal address at Sorrento Terrace, where the sound meets the glorious vista of Killiney Bay, referred to as the 'Bay of Naples'.

Howth
Howth harbour lies to the north of Dublin Bay on the far side of the peninsula that juts out into the Irish Sea. Built to accommodate packetsteamers, the harbour is now a busy fishing and yachting location.Visit Howth Castle Gardens and the Transport Museum; dine in one of the good seafood restaurants.There are many walks on the Hill of Howth, where at the summit spectacular views encompass all of the Dublin Bay and beyond.A pleasant anchorage point is at Red Rock, near the foot of the Baily Lighthouse on Howth Peninsula or off Irelands Eye opposite the marina which has very good facilities and is host to many regattas.