Kinsale Ocean Adventures: Old Head Boat Tour in Co. Cork
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to stand or sit on a moving boat for the duration.
Overview
Sail around Kinsale Harbour on a 2.5-hour boat tour featuring the Old Head Lighthouse, sea caves, and hands-on fishing with Kinsale Ocean Adventures. Discover a side of coastal Ireland shaped by ancient rock and Atlantic wildlife.
Details
Located on Ireland’s rugged southern coast, Kinsale is a vibrant harbor town in County Cork known for its maritime heritage and striking coastal scenery. Kinsale Ocean Adventures offers a standout journey for those keen to experience the wild Atlantic coast by water. Their Old Head Trip is a 2.5-hour boat tour that ventures around Kinsale Harbour, delivering a mix of geological wonder, natural beauty, and hands-on adventure.
This trip centers on the iconic Old Head Lighthouse, perched dramatically on a towering limestone headland that juts into the Atlantic. The lighthouse itself is a vital navigational aid established in the 1800s, standing watch over these craggy cliffs and foaming surf. The exposed rock formations here showcase layers of sedimentary rock shaped by relentless coastal forces, creating a striking contrast with the deep blue sea.
One of the trip’s highlights is the passage through the sea caves of Hole Open Bay—natural volcanic and sedimentary caverns carved by wave action over millennia. These caves give passengers a glimpse into coastal geology few other tours reach, their dark, echoing chambers a haven for local seabirds. Wildlife spotting is frequent, with seals often visible sunning themselves on nearby rocks and colonies of gannets diving for fish in the surf.
Adding a personal touch, the trip invites participants to try their hand at fishing from the boat, casting lines into rich Atlantic waters where mackerel and pollock schools are common. The journey includes a picnic along the coast, making it a full sensory immersion into Kinsale’s marine environment.
Kinsale Ocean Adventures stands out in this region by combining natural history, wildlife encounters, and active participation in a single, accessible outing. This trip is a fitting reminder of how coastal Ireland lives and breathes—from lighthouse gleams to wave-carved caves. It offers visitors an unfiltered connection to the Atlantic’s power and mystery that’s difficult to match elsewhere in Ireland.
Adventure Tips
Bring layered clothing
Weather on the water can shift rapidly; wear layers to stay comfortable against wind and spray.
Wear non-slip footwear
Boat decks can be wet; sturdy shoes with grip will help prevent slips and falls.
Use biodegradable sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment by opting for reef-safe, biodegradable sun protection.
Bring a waterproof camera
Capture rugged cliff views and wildlife without risking damage from sea spray or rain.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- The small fishing village of Ballinspittle nearby
- Secluded coves accessible by foot along the Old Head cliffs
Wildlife
- Grey seals
- Northern gannets
History
Old Head Lighthouse was first established in the 1800s, guiding ships safely past the hazardous cliffs of the Old Head peninsula.
Conservation
Kinsale Ocean Adventures follows sustainable boating practices to minimize disturbance to marine habitats and wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- From the boat near Old Head Lighthouse
- Inside Hole Open Bay sea caves
- Along the cliffs of the Old Head peninsula
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker jacket
Protects against ocean breeze and occasional spray during the boat tour.
Waterproof bag
Keeps your belongings dry while onboarding and near the water.
Polarized sunglasses
Cuts glare off the water surface for better visibility and eye comfort.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when on the water for several hours.