Dunmore East Sea Safari to Hook Lighthouse

Waterford , Ireland

Dunmore East Sea Safari to Hook Lighthouse

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(78 reviews)

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About this experience

Take a boat tour to see Hook Lighthouse from the Sea! We will take you on a breath-taking guided boat tour of the Waterford and Wexford Coastline, where you will enjoy tales of Vikings and smugglers as well as meeting first hand some of the marine life that we share the coast with.If you are lucky, you will see dolphins and seals, and plenty of sea birds. The Waterford and Wexford coast is steeped in Maritime History, you will hear where the term 'By Hook or by Crooke' came from, how in 1645 Irish rebels fought and sank the flagship of the English Navy, still lying today beneath the sands. Visit a sea cave where ancient people brought the bones of their dead to enable their passage to the other world, and to top your tour off, some high speed manoeuvres in our Rigid Inflatable Boat - 'Vadrefjord'
Boat tour - approximately 1 hour on the water, a safety brief is mandatory prior to boarding. Arrive 30 minutes before your tour time to allow for equipment allocation and safety brief.

Available options

Dunmore East Sea Safari to Hook Lighthouse

What's included

Lifejackets, Waterproof warm jackets

waterproof leggings

Detailed itinerary

Dave, your skipper will take you on a boat trip found nowhere else in this world!
See the worlds oldest operational lighthouse - Hook - from the sea. The lighthouse has been standing for 800 years, build by one of the Knights of the Templar.
Visit the 40 steps sea cave - where ancient people left the
bones of their dead for their passage to the other world by water.
Captain Dave will tell you stories of smugglers and pirates, and you may see a Dolphin or two on your trip if you keep your eyes peeled.
The trip is rounded off with some high speed manoeuvres, so keep your hats on!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

73 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be at least 144cms tall

Children need to be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

Park at the top of Dunmore East Harbour 52.145496, -6.992512, walk towards and past the lighthouse to the right of the harbour - and meet us at our highly visible trailer or vehicle which will be clearly marked. Walk from car park approx 5 - 8 mins.

Important notes

Please wear warm clothing and sun screen. When arriving, Look for our Sea Safari Trailer or Vehicle which will be parked past the Lighthouse in Dunmore East Harbour - your guide will meet you there for your safety briefing and equipment allocation. Parking is at the top of the Harbour, behind East Pier Fish and Chip shop.

About Waterford

Waterford is Ireland's oldest city, founded by Vikings in 914 AD. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and the famous Waterford Crystal, it offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions. The city's charming streets, historic sites, and vibrant arts scene make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Waterford Treasures Museums

A collection of three museums showcasing Waterford's rich history, including the Medieval Museum, the Bishop's Palace, and the Irish Museum of Treasures.

Historical 2-3 hours €10-€15

Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre

The iconic Waterford Crystal factory offers tours showcasing the craftsmanship behind the famous crystal. Visitors can watch artisans at work and shop for unique souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, tours €10-€20

Reginald's Tower

A 13th-century tower and the oldest urban civic building in Ireland. It houses exhibits on Viking history and medieval artifacts.

Historical 1 hour €5

Mount Congreve Gardens

A beautiful 70-acre garden with a diverse collection of plants and trees, offering peaceful walks and scenic views.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Waterford Marina

A modern marina with a variety of water-based activities, including boat tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Beach 1-2 hours Varies by activity

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty stew made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated potatoes, flour, and buttermilk.

Side Dish Contains gluten and dairy

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and onions.

Soup Contains dairy and seafood

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with flour, baking soda, and buttermilk.

Bread Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Paddleboarding Spa treatments Gardens Marina walks Museum visits Live music

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with numerous events and outdoor markets.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Standard Time), GMT+1 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Waterford is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Waterford Airport • 10 km from city center
Cork Airport • 90 km from Waterford

By train

Waterford Plaza Railway Station

By bus

Waterford Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Waterford, connecting the city center to suburbs and nearby towns. The service is affordable and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Local taxi companies

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center The Viking Triangle Waterford Marina Mount Congreve

Day trips

Hook Lighthouse

50 km from Waterford • Half day to full day

The oldest operational lighthouse in the world, offering guided tours and stunning views of the coastline.

Tintern Abbey

40 km from Waterford • Half day

A picturesque ruined abbey set in a beautiful woodland area, offering peaceful walks and historic exploration.

Mount Leinster

60 km from Waterford • Full day

A scenic mountain offering hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Festivals

Waterford International Festival of Light • February Waterford Harvest Festival • September Waterford Spraoi International Street Arts Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit the Waterford Treasures Museums for a comprehensive overview of the city's history.
Take a tour of the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre to see the craftsmanship behind the famous crystal.
Explore the Viking Triangle for a deep dive into Waterford's Viking and medieval history.
Enjoy a meal at one of the city's traditional Irish pubs for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
Take a day trip to Hook Lighthouse, the oldest operational lighthouse in the world.