Dolphin Watch

Located off of the Loop Head Peninsula at the mouth of the Shannon River in County Clare, the Carrigaholt Dolphin Watch boat trips provide a close encounter with bottlenose dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life including grey seals. The boat trips journey to an area of special conservation where a school of 140 dolphins have made their home. The conservation area at the mouth of the Shannon brings in a plethora of fish, attracting both dolphins and Atlantic seabrids to the area.

The Dolphin Watch boat trips travel in an area full of natural beauty where steep cliffs rise out of the Atlantic. These cliffs serve as a refuge for wild seabirds who nest among the rocky shelves. Grey seals are also spotted basking in the sun atop the smooth rocks rising out of the surface of the ocean. The village of Carrigaholt is picturesque and a perfect example of fishing life in medieval times complete with a 15th century castle guarding its pier.

The Dolphin Watch passenger boat provides enough space for each person to get close to the dolphins from the railings on every side of the boat for excellent viewing and photo opportunities. A hydrophone allows passengers to hear underwater dolphin sounds and "conversations." The passenger boat also has a full service bar and indoor seating area. The boat's crew is composed of university zoologists available to answer questions along with the boat's skipper, Geoff Magee, who has 30 years of experience with the local waters.