Dingle is a charming coastal town located in County Kerry, Ireland, renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. One of the most popular activities to do when in Dingle is whale watching, which is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of the largest creatures on earth. With so many whale watching tours available, it can be challenging to choose the best one. In this post, we’ll guide you through the best whale watching experiences in Dingle, highlighting the different options available and what to expect on each tour. So, grab your binoculars, and let’s head out to the open seas to discover the magnificent marine life that inhabits the waters around Dingle.
The 2 Best Whale Watching in Dingle
The 2 Best Whale Watching in Dingle
1. Dingle Dolphin Boat Tour
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Dingle Peninsula on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way with an incredible Dingle Dolphin Boat Tour. This scenic afternoon boat cruise offers magnificent views of Dingle and the Blasket Islands from the water, while also giving you the chance to spot local wildlife such as seals, puffins, and whales in their natural environment. With Dingle’s longest-running boat tour company, you’ll be guided by an experienced skipper who will share their knowledge of the area’s natural wonders. This personalized experience allows for a maximum of 12 people on each tour. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included, as well as the driver/guide and gratuities. Meeting point is located behind the Tourist Office on the main fishing pier down on the harbour in Dingle Town Centre, at Unit 2 The Pier Strand St Dingle Co. Kerry V92 A6XT Ireland. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to explore the beauty of the Dingle Peninsula with Dingle Dolphin Boat Tours.
2. Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Tours in Ireland
Experience the thrill of observing whales and dolphins on a 4-hour cruise around Dingle Bay. Marvel over the coastal scenery along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way before hopping onto the boat for a memorable journey around the bay. Glide past Slea Head, Europe’s westernmost point, and cruise out to the Blasket Islands to look out for a variety of sea creatures, including humpback whales, dolphins, seals, basking sharks, and puffins. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide and a professional photographer guide, and there’s free car parking available at the pier and in Ventry village. The meeting point is Ventry stop 636961 in Cantra, Co. Kerry, Ireland. To get there, head 4 miles west of Dingle town center on the Slea Head drive road R559, turn left by the cottages opposite Quinn’s pub, and you can park your car on the pier. Please note that entrance fees are not required, and no alcohol is served on board. Gratuities are also not included in the price.
Everything You Need to Know About Whale Watching in Dingle
Whale Watching in Dingle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. Every year, thousands of tourists come to Dingle to whale watch and experience the beautiful marine life. If you’re planning a trip to Dingle, you might have some questions about whale watching. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in Dingle.
What types of whales can we see in Dingle?
There are several types of whales that you can see in Dingle, including the following:
- Humpback whales
- Minke whales
- Fin whales
- Blue whales
The most common species you’re likely to spot on a whale watching tour in Dingle are humpback whales and minke whales. However, with a bit of luck, you might also be one of the few people who gets the privilege of seeing the larger whales like fin whales or blue whales.
What time of the year is best for whale watching in Dingle?
The best time to go whale watching in Dingle is between April and October. During this period, the waters around Dingle are at their calmest, allowing for easier whale sightings. However, whales have their own schedule, and sightings are not always guaranteed.
What should I wear to go whale watching?
When you go whale watching, you’ll be on a boat exposed to the sun, wind, and water spray. It’s important that you dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Here are some tips for dressing for whale watching:
- Wear a warm, windproof coat or jacket.
- Wear warm, waterproof footwear with a good grip.
- Wear a hat, scarf, and gloves to keep yourself warm.
- Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
- Consider bringing motion sickness medication if you’re prone to sea sickness.
How long does a whale watching tour last?
A typical whale watching tour in Dingle lasts for around four hours. However, this can vary depending on the weather and the whale sightings. If whales are spotted earlier or later than usual, the tour can take longer or shorter than four hours.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
No, whale sightings are not guaranteed as whales are wild animals and have their own schedule. However, if whales are sighted during your trip, your tour operator will do their best to get you as close as possible without disturbing the marine life.
How close can we get to the whales?
In Ireland, there are strict regulations about how close boats can approach whales. Whale watching boats in Dingle are not allowed to get closer than 100 meters to whales. Rough seas and poor visibility can also make it difficult to approach whales safely.
Is there an age limit for whale watching?
There is no official age limit for whale watching, but tour operators recommend that children under the age of six not go on whale watching tours. The reason for this is that young children may not have the patience or attention span required for whale watching. Additionally, the sea can be rough, and the boat can be unstable, which can be unsettling for young children.
What should I bring on a whale watching tour?
Here are some essential items to bring on a whale watching tour:
- Camera or binoculars to get a better look at the whales.
- Warm jacket, hat, and gloves to protect you from the wind.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
- Bottled water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized on the trip.
- Motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
How to do Whale Watching in Dingle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Whale watching in Dingle, Ireland, is an incredible experience that offers the opportunity to see majestic marine mammals up close in their natural habitat. Dingle is renowned as one of the best places in the world to see whales, and it is an experience that can’t be missed on your trip to Ireland. If you’re planning to go whale watching in Dingle, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your experience.
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Whale Watching Tour Company
The first step to a successful whale watching experience is to choose a reputable tour company. There are several companies that offer whale watching tours in Dingle, but only a few are licensed by the Irish government and adhere to the high standards set by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group.We recommend choosing a company that has been in business for several years and has a good reputation. Look for reviews online and ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel staff.
Step 2: Book Your Whale Watching Tour in Advance
Whale watching tours in Dingle are very popular, especially during the summer months. It is important to book your tour in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Most tour companies offer online booking, and some even provide discounts for booking ahead of time.
Step 3: Dress Appropriately
It’s important to dress for the weather, as conditions at sea can be unpredictable. Even on sunny days, the wind and water can be cold, so it’s best to bring warm and waterproof clothing, including a hat and gloves. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and bring a camera to capture your experience.
Step 4: Listen to the Safety Briefing
Before the tour begins, the crew will provide a safety briefing. This will include instructions on how to use life jackets and where to find emergency equipment. It’s important to pay attention to this briefing and ask any questions you may have.
Step 5: Keep Your Eyes Peeled
Once you’re out on the water, keep your eyes peeled for any signs of marine life. Whales are known to breach the surface of the water, creating a large splash. You may also see dolphins, porpoises, and seals during your tour.
Step 6: Follow the Crew’s Instructions
The tour crew will provide instructions on where to look for whales and where to position yourself on the boat for the best view. It’s important to follow these instructions and avoid interfering with the whales or their habitat.
Step 7: Enjoy the Experience
Whale watching is an amazing experience, and it’s important to enjoy the moment. Take in the stunning views of the Dingle coastline and the amazing marine life you will see during your tour.
Step 8: Respect the Whales and Their Habitat
Whale watching tours in Dingle are conducted in a way that minimizes the impact on the whales and their habitat. It’s important to respect this and avoid disturbing the whales in any way. Never approach a whale closer than 100 meters, and if a whale approaches the boat, the crew will instruct you on how to proceed.
Tips for a Successful Whale Watching Experience
– Bring warm, waterproof clothing
– Wear sunscreen and a hat
– Bring a camera to capture the experience
– Follow the crew’s instructions
– Respect the whales and their habitat
– Book your tour in advance
Book Your Tour Now
Whale watching in Dingle is an unforgettable experience that offers the opportunity to see one of nature’s most majestic creatures up close. By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable tour that respects the whales and their habitat. Book your tour in advance, dress for the weather, and be prepared for an unforgettable adventure.
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