Whale Watching in Ireland 2024-2025

Over 20 species of whales and dolphins live in Irish waters. That makes Ireland one of the best whale-watching destinations in Europe. Its primary spot, West Cork, is a habitat for over 12 cetacean species. In the 90s, the Irish government banned any whale fishing activity, declaring it a whale sanctuary. The most common species found south and southwest off the coast are fin whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and humpback whales.

Whale-watching season in West Cork

Ireland offers whale-watching opportunities all year round, excluding only the month of February. The minke whale migration brings them to the west coast of Ireland from March to November. Fall and early winter are the best time to spot fin whales (September to December) and humpback whales (November to January). Occasionally, people see orcas and long-finned pilot whales. Dolphins can be watched best from August to December. Thus, autumn provides the most spectacular opportunities to observe giant mammals off the West Cork coast.

Whale-watching tours in West Cork

Whale Watch West Cork cruises depart Baltimore Harbour daily at 9.30 am and 2.15 pm. A four-hour trip on the Voyager catamaran costs €55 euro per person. Baltimore is located within a 15-minute drive from Skibbereen.

Cork Whale Watch cruises depart from Reen Pier, 2,5 mi (4 km) outside of Union Hall village, Cruises run from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm April-October and from 11 am to 3 pm November-March. The cost is €60 per person. Children under 18 years pay €45.

Atlantic Whale and Wildlife Tours depart from Courtmacsherry Harbour, a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for birds habitat, at 9:30 am. They usually head to the Seven Heads or towards the Old Head of Kinsale. The cost for adults is €65, €40 for children.

Whale-watching tours in West Cork are conducted under the code to avoid harm to marine creatures. The success rate is about 95% for common dolphins and about 80% for whales. Dursey Island, Cape Clear Island, Sheep’s Head, Baltimore Beacon, Seven Heads, Old Head of Kinsale, Toe Head, and Galley Head are the best whale-watching spots in West Cork.

Other locations

Besides West Cork, whale watching cruises are offered in West Kerry, where it's easy to spot minke whales, common dolphins, and basking sharks south of the Great Blasket Island and south of Slea Head. The Dingle Peninsula is another great whale-watching spot, with a variety of tours to choose from. In Galway, whale-watching is possible on Letterfrack Bay, Killary Harbour, and the Aran Islands. However, you'll need to hire a private charter since no organized tours are offered. In Clare, dolphin-watching excursions are popular. Whales can also be occasionally spotted on Black Head, Kilkee Cliffs, and the Shannon Estuary. In Donegal, some cetaceans have been spotted, as well as basking sharks, the harbor porpoise, and sunfish.

Whale-watching tips

Even if you go whale-watching in the summer, you have to dress warmly. A waterproof jacket and closed-toe shoes would be a good idea. Bring some food and drink as well as sunglasses and sunscreen. Don't forget binoculars and a camera!