Dún Laoghaire (tours to Dublin), Ireland cruises
Dún Laoghaire port guide
The port of Dún Laoghaire has been integral to Ireland since the 19th century, when it became home to the largest man-made harbor in Western Europe. Dún Laoghaire quickly became not only an important trade hub, but it also began to attract Victorian gentry as a seaside resort. Reminders of this elegant past can be seen throughout this pretty town, with its well-kept formal gardens, ornate iron work, and architecture.
Top landmarks and sights in Dún Laoghaire
Upon docking in Dún Laoghaire you may be planning to make your way to the jewel in Dublin Bay’s crown - Ireland’s capital city, Dublin. However, should you wish to stay closer to your ship, there’s plenty to see and do in Dún Laoghaire itself.
The National Marime Museum
Set inside a 180-year-old mariners church, this museum showcases a wide range of artefacts from Ireland’s maritime heritage, as well as plenty of hands-on exhibits to try. The church building itself is architecturally interesting, and within you’ll find a chance to learn about local wildlife and art, as well as marine navigation, radio, and deep-sea cable technology.
The Oratory of the Sacred Heart
Built on the grounds of the St Mary’s Dominican Convent, in 1919 the Oratory of the Sacred Heart was dedicated to Irish soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. Then, between the years 1920 and 1936, a nun named Sister Concepta Lynch dedicated her time to painting the most extraordinary colorful, Celtic murals throughout the interior.
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Serving as the main public library and cultural center of Dún Laoghaire, the dlr LexIcon was opened in 2015. Since then, it has won several architecture awards, including the RIBA’s Award of International Excellence. The top floor of the library also boats unrivalled views of the harbor.
Things to do in Dún Laoghaire
Dún Laoghaire offers a variety of ways to spend your day. If you’re not exploring the local culture in a museum, perhaps you’ll soak up the atmosphere harborside, or will you find a quaint café from which to people-watch?
Enjoy a waterside walk
For a taste of the quintessential Victorian vacation in Dún Laoghaire, you could take a simple stroll by the water - maybe savoring a local Teddy’s ice cream as you do (delicious even on the greyest of days!). Why not make your way to one of the piers? The East Pier is just over a mile and a half, and the West Pier is almost two, but do note that the latter is not paved. Either one brings highlights like the old Victorian bandstand on the East, and the Coal Harbour on the West.
Take time out in the People’s Park
Developed towards the end of the 19th century, today the People’s Park is a real town highlight. It features two Victorian water fountains, carefully manicured lawns, a playground and a quaint tearoom. Should you happen to be here on a Sunday, the park hosts a market where you can pick up artisan crafts and gifts as charming mementos of your trip.
Visit Sandycove
A little further south of Dún Laoghaire (between a five and 10-minute drive) is Sandycove, where you’ll find a sheltered beach. You’ll also find the moody looking Forty Foot – a natural bathing location where you’re welcome to brave the cold ocean waters year-round. The James Joyce Tower and Museum is also nearby, if you’re a fan of this famous Irish author.
Eating and drinking near Dún Laoghaire
A familiar sight in Dún Laoghaire harbor is the hustle and bustle of local fisherman. The day’s haul could include mackerel, pollack, bass, and plaice, among others, and will quickly be delivered out to nearby restaurants. Freshly battered fish served with hot, salty chips may well become one of your favorite memories of this charismatic Irish town.
A beloved institution in Dún Laoghaire is Teddy’s ice cream, which first opened in 1950. Home to what’s arguably Ireland’s most iconic ’99, Teddy’s now has several ice cream shops around the town.
Shopping in Dún Laoghaire
At three quarters of a mile, Dún Laoghaire is home to one of the longest high streets in Ireland, and hosts around 200 shops. You’ll find welcoming independent boutiques as well as well-known chains in which you can shop for clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and more. There’s also the Dún Laoghaire Shopping Centre and Bloomfields Shopping Centre, which house many popular high street shops.
On Sundays, the market in People’s Park provides a great opportunity to browse and collect a few keepsakes – either for yourself or to take home to loved ones.
Getting around: Dún Laoghaire transport
When visiting Dublin Bay, your Cunard Queen will anchor offshore rather than alongside the dock or quay, and a tender boat will be used to take you ashore to Dún Laoghaire port. From there, it’s easy to get a bus or train into Dublin City Centre, or simply soak up the relaxing atmosphere of sleepy Dún Laoghaire, which can be explored on foot.
Dún Laoghaire port facilities
The port at Dún Laoghaire offers several useful amenities. These include shops, such as gift shops and a newsagent, bathrooms, Wi-Fi, seating, a bureau de change, and information booths.
Top tips for Dún Laoghaire
Currency
The currency used in Dún Laoghaire, and throughout Ireland, is the Euro. Cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for use in smaller establishments. There are a few ATMs in the town from which you can withdraw cash, alternatively you can purchase Euros on board your ship.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Dún Laoghaire, however rounding up your bill or leaving some change is an appreciated reward for good service.
Weather
The weather in Ireland is known to be somewhat moody and grey. In Dún Laoghaire, the summer months of July and August are the warmest, when temperatures reach around 20° Celsius. Between December and February, on the other hand, expect highs of around 9 and lows of 2° Celsius. The winter months see considerable rain, and June is the driest.