Dolphin Watching on the Shannon
Kilkee, County ClareAbout Dolphin Watching on the Shannon
There are about 160 Bottlenose Dolphins in the Shannon Estuary, an EU Special Area of Conservation. Calves are born every year and it is a special treat to watch them play! It can take a while to find them, so they have a toy box on board in the cabin for the shorter attention spans.
While the dolphins are the draw, there are plenty of little surprises likely on the trip too. You might meet a grey seal emerging from a cave, or spot a herd of wild goats grazing on a craggy hillside. Your captain might take you close to the colossal Atlantic cliffs to show you some of the thousands of seabirds, or to describe how the unusual rock formations you will see came about 320 million years ago.
September through February is whale watching season and Dolphinwatch offers whale watching trips to look for Fin and Minke Whales on the northern side of Loop Head.
There are a few basic rules for children while on board for their safety and the comfort of other passengers, which are outlined at the beginning of the trip, so it's made nice and simple for you to keep them safe.
Opening Times
Trips run year round with seasonal changes to wildlife tours & occasional seasonal closure due to weather
Pricing & Tickets
Adults €35 Child €20
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
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FAQs
Contact Details
The Square at Carrigaholt, Loop Head Peninsula near
Kilkee
County Clare
IE
Tel: 065 9058156
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