Join us on a Wildlife Adventure...

Ireland’s greatest river opens out to the Atlantic Ocean at Carrigaholt on the Loop Head Peninsula, County Clare - home to Europe’s largest group of bottlenose dolphins. 

With approximately 200 individuals here at the Mouth of the Shannon, our encounter rate is one of the highest in the world and the best place to see dolphins in Ireland.

Dolphinwatch offers one of the most exciting activities and wildlife attractions on the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Our passenger ship, Draíocht (“Magic”) departs from the Castle Pier to bring you on an extraordinary adventure, with a live commentary and a crew of marine scientists to answer questions and ensure your comfort, safety and enjoyment. Dolphinwatch has been a committed partner in the research and protection of these wild dolphins since pioneering dolphin watching in Ireland in 1992.

Watching and learning about the dolphins in their natural habitat is central to the experience, yet every trip is different in this dynamic marine environment.

On a trip with Dolphinwatch you have the opportunity to meet a variety of wildlife, learn about the many species of seabirds, and be awed by the stunning cliffs and caves at the Mouth of the Shannon.

Our sailing schedule is set on a daily basis, depending on sea conditions, tides & where dolphins are likely to be. 

Please phone us for our current sailing times or look on our home page.

Trip Duration - 2 - 3 hrs.  We aim to find dolphins on every trip, but please keep in mind that they are wild animals and we must be patient and accepting of what each trip brings.