Dolphin Watching < Back

Dolphin Watching & Wildlife Eco-Adventure

Ireland’s greatest river opens out to the Atlantic Ocean at Carrigaholt – home to Europe’s largest group of bottlenose dolphins.  With approximately 200 individuals here at the Mouth of the Shannon, the dolphin encounter rate with Dolphinwatch is one of the best in the world.

The passenger ship, Draíocht (“Magic”), skippered by Geoff Magee, departs from Carrigaholt Castle Pier to take you on an extraordinary adventure. Geoff’s fascinating commentary keeps you informed throughout the trip.  The competent and friendly crew are on board to ensure your comfort, safety and enjoyment.

Watching and learning about the dolphins in their natural habitat is central to the experience, yet every trip is different in this dynamic environment.  You might meet a grey seal emerging from a cave, spot a herd of wild goats on a hillside, learn about the many species of nesting seabirds, and delight in the  stunning cliffs and caves of the Loop Head Peninsula and the coast of North Kerry.

A family business since 1992, Dolphinwatch is the only marine tourism business to be awarded a gold certification from Ecotourism Ireland. Dolphinwatch achieved the Excellence Award from Trip Advisor, and is one of the BBC Wildlife Magazine’s Top Ten Attractions in Ireland.

Carrigaholt is a Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way.