Join Dolphin Discovery Kilrush for a thrilling boat tour through Ireland’s Shannon River, where you can witness the playful leaps of Europe’s largest bottlenose dolphin groups. Discover why this trip is a must-do for wildlife lovers visiting Ireland’s west coast.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Kilrush has a rich maritime history dating back to the 18th century, with significant shipbuilding roots.
Conservation
The company implements eco-friendly practices to protect marine life and habitats around the Shannon Delta.
Dolphin Discovery Kilrush
Join Dolphin Discovery Kilrush for a thrilling boat tour through Ireland’s Shannon River, where you can witness the playful leaps of Europe’s largest bottlenose dolphin groups. Discover why this trip is a must-do for wildlife lovers visiting Ireland’s west coast.
Dolphin Discovery Kilrush operates dolphin-spotting cruises from Kilrush, County Clare. The company runs a signature River Cruise and Dolphin Spotting Tour, a two-hour wildlife cruise that departs from Kilrush marina aboard the vessel An Breandan. The route navigates through the only lock on the lower Shannon and focuses on encounters with the region’s bottlenose dolphins, including opportunities to see playful leaps and newborn calves in their natural habitat.
The team aboard An Breandan uses local knowledge of the Shannon estuary to locate and observe Europe’s largest group of bottlenose dolphins while maintaining safe distances and responsible wildlife viewing practices. Tours emphasize passenger safety, clear sightlines for photography, and informative commentary about the local river environment and dolphin behaviour.
Dolphin Discovery Kilrush is presented on The Adventure Collective and is available to visitors to County Clare seeking guided dolphin-spotting experiences on the Shannon. Prospective guests can expect a 120-minute excursion from Kilrush marina that combines river navigation through the lower Shannon lock with dedicated time for dolphin observation. Booking information, seasonal schedules, and departure details are provided by the operator and on affiliated booking platforms. Visitors should check availability and weather considerations before travel. The Shannon estuary’s tidal channels and sheltered waters provide habitat where bottlenose dolphins are regularly observed, and the tour focuses on non-intrusive viewing from the vessel. Passengers receive guidance on responsible wildlife viewing and are requested to follow crew instructions to minimise disturbance and support conservation-minded observation. Further details are available through the operator’s booking channels directly.
Location
Kilrush, County Clare
Departures from Kilrush marina.
Tour Duration
2 hours
2-hour wildlife cruise from Kilrush marina.
Departure Vessel
An Breandan
Name of the tour vessel.
Dolphins
Bottlenose dolphins
Europe’s largest local dolphin group.
Secure a place on the 2-hour River Cruise and Dolphin Spotting Tour — check availability and departure times before travel.
Dress in layers
Weather on the water can change quickly; bring warm and waterproof clothing.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your chances of spotting dolphins and other marine wildlife with binoculars.
Arrive early
Get there ahead of departure to secure your spot and settle comfortably.
Respect wildlife guidelines
Maintain a safe distance and avoid loud noises to avoid disturbing the dolphins.
Warm clothing
Dress in layered, weatherproof clothing to stay comfortable on the water.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Binoculars
Useful for spotting dolphins and distant wildlife more clearly.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during sunny days on the water.
summer
Camera
Capture memorable moments of dolphins and scenic views.