Welcome to Dingle, a jewel of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way and a highlight of any Irish cruise itinerary. This charming fishing village on the rugged Dingle Peninsula offers an authentic slice of Irish life, from its Gaelic-speaking locals to its traditional pubs filled with live music.
While larger ships anchor elsewhere, Dingle is a favored port of call for smaller luxury and expedition lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Ponant, offering an intimate and immersive experience.
Passengers are captivated by the stunning coastal scenery, opportunities for marine wildlife encounters, and the simple pleasure of strolling through one of Ireland's most picturesque towns.
The single most famous activity in Dingle is the breathtaking Slea Head Drive. This scenic loop circles the westernmost tip of the peninsula, offering dramatic cliffside views, ancient historical sites, and pristine beaches. Most shore excursions focus on this incredible drive.
Within the town itself, you can visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, which showcases local marine life and is perfect for all ages. Another popular activity is taking a Dingle Bay boat tour to see the beautiful coastline from the water and look for dolphins and other wildlife.
A short drive from town is the remarkable Gallarus Oratory, an exceptionally well-preserved early Christian stone church dating back over a thousand years, offering a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's ancient past.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
One of the most popular day trips from Dingle is to Killarney, located about 65 kilometers (approx. 75 minutes) away. Visitors are drawn to the beautiful Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, and the famous Lakes of Killarney.
A shorter trip can be made to the town of Tralee, the administrative capital of County Kerry, about 50 kilometers (approx. 50 minutes) from Dingle. It's home to the Kerry County Museum and offers a different perspective on local life.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Great Blasket Centre in Dunquin provides insight into the unique literary and cultural heritage of the now-uninhabited Blasket Islands, which are visible just off the coast.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Dingle is a tender port, meaning cruise ships anchor in the bay and passengers are brought ashore via smaller tender boats. This process itself offers beautiful views of the colorful town and harbor.
The tender boats dock at Dingle Pier, which is located directly in the heart of the town. No shuttles or further transportation are needed to reach the main area. From the pier, you are just steps away from Dingle's main streets, which are filled with vibrant pubs, artisan shops, and seafood restaurants.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
The official currency in Dingle, as in the rest of Ireland, is the Euro (€). While some tour operators might accept US dollars for tips, it is not standard practice in shops or restaurants.
ATMs are readily available throughout the town for withdrawing Euros. Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most establishments, but it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases at local markets or pubs.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Dingle is widely regarded as a very safe and friendly destination for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare, and visitors can feel comfortable exploring the town and surrounding areas independently.
The primary safety considerations are related to the natural environment. When embarking on coastal walks or scenic drives, be mindful of narrow roads and changing weather conditions. If taking a boat tour, always listen to the crew's safety instructions. As in any tourist area, exercise common sense with personal belongings, but you can generally relax and enjoy the welcoming Irish hospitality.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
The weather in Dingle is typical of Ireland's west coast: mild, moist, and wonderfully unpredictable. During the main cruise season from late spring to early autumn (May to September), you can expect average high temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (60-68°F).
Rain is a possibility at any time, and it's not uncommon to experience sun, clouds, and a brief shower all in the same afternoon. Packing in layers is the best strategy. A waterproof jacket is essential, along with a sweater or fleece and comfortable walking shoes. There is no hurricane season to consider in this part of the Atlantic.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Dingle town is compact and easily explored on foot, as the tender pier is located right in the center. For venturing further, several transportation options are available.
Local taxis can be found in town and are an excellent option for personalized tours of the peninsula. The most popular way for cruise visitors to experience the area's stunning scenery is through a pre-booked Slea Head Drive bus tour.
While public buses connect Dingle to towns like Tralee, their schedules may not be convenient for a short port stay. Ride-sharing services like Uber are generally not available in this rural area.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Shopping in Dingle is a delight, with a focus on local crafts and Irish-made goods. The main shopping streets, including Green Street, Main Street, and Strand Street, are lined with independent boutiques and artisan workshops.
Look for classic souvenirs like hand-knit Aran sweaters, Celtic jewelry, and woolen throws. Dingle is also home to many skilled potters and artists. For a unique local taste, visit the Dingle Distillery's shop for its world-renowned whiskey and gin, or stop by a local food shop for artisan cheese and preserves. Prices are generally fixed, and haggling is not customary.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
For your shore excursion in Dingle, consider a private chauffeur-guided tour of the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula. The highlight is the iconic Slea Head Drive, a narrow coastal road offering dramatic cliffside views, ancient stone beehive huts, and pristine sandy beaches. A personal tour allows you to experience this landscape of rugged beauty and rich archaeological history at your own pace.
Enjoy an award-winning private sea safari on a high-speed RIB, perfect for the whole family. This exclusive experience allows you to tailor-make your own tour. Spend your time seeing the sights that interest you most for a truly personalized adventure on the water.
Explore the picturesque Dingle Peninsula with acclaimed guides Mossie and Helen, recipients of TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Award for the last three years. Discover breathtaking scenery and fascinating historical sites spanning over 6,000 years of Irish history and culture. Travel in comfort as you learn about the area's rich heritage, music, and spirituality.
Discover the region in ultimate style and comfort on a personal chauffeur-guided tour. Your accredited and personable guide will lead you on a memorable journey. Relax in the luxury of a Mercedes S-Class 350 as you explore the local sights.
Discover the region in ultimate style and comfort on a personal chauffeur-guided tour. Your accredited and personable guide will lead you on a memorable journey. Relax in the luxury of a Mercedes S-Class 350 as you explore the local sights.
Get out on the water for some fun on an excursion perfect for adults and kids alike. Enjoy the beautiful scenery from the boat. You can even try your hand at fishing and see if you can catch your dinner.
Journey through "the Kingdom" of Ireland on a picturesque loop in southwest County Kerry. Discover breathtaking scenery, from secluded beaches and weathered cliffs to heritage sites and charming towns. This tour shows you the places that make this region a special piece of the "true Ireland."
Embark on a guided 3-mile walk along the stunning cliffs of Dunquin, overlooking the Blasket Island archipelago. Your guide, Kevin, will enrich your journey with stories of folklore, history, and geology in this Irish-speaking region. This very doable walk on mostly flat terrain offers an enriching experience in a beautiful landscape.
Take a thrilling 2.5-hour sea safari on a 12-passenger RIB to explore the Blasket Islands, Ireland's only Marine National Park. Discover hidden coves and sea caves while looking for seals, dolphins, and puffins, though wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Your skipper, a Marine Biologist, will provide a wealth of information about the incredible coastal scenery and marine life.
Enjoy an immersive, all-day private tour of the Slea Head Drive and the greater Dingle area. Your accredited, personable tour guide is a local who will provide unique insights. Travel in complete comfort and luxury in a Mercedes S-Class 350 for a truly memorable day.
Experience the thrill of driving your own 4-passenger powerboat, with no previous experience required. These easy-to-operate boats are safe and suitable for all skill levels, and full instructions are provided before you depart. A patrol boat is on the water at all times for your safety, ensuring a worry-free adventure.
Visit one of the last remaining handcrafted crystal workshops in Ireland for a unique, personal tour. Watch master craftsman Sean Daly and his skilled artisans create stunning pieces inspired by the West Kerry landscape. Each authentic piece is produced entirely by hand and signed by Sean himself.
Get a taste of Dingle on a tour that combines the town's amazing food, history, and local culture. This experience is perfect for those traveling with friends, family, or on their own. The Early Tour is especially well-suited for cruise passengers on a short visit to this picturesque port town.
Explore the picturesque Dingle Peninsula with acclaimed guides Mossie and Helen, recipients of TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Award for the last three years. Discover breathtaking scenery and fascinating historical sites spanning over 6,000 years of Irish history and culture. Travel in comfort as you learn about the area's rich heritage, music, and spirituality.
Join a photography tour led by Micheál O’Sullivan, an experienced professional and leading authority on Irish landscape photography. Based in Killarney, these tours explore the most picturesque locations in Ireland, including scenic spots along the Wild Atlantic Way. This is the perfect opportunity for photographers to capture the beauty of Ireland's west coast.
Experience the Dingle Peninsula on a private, half-day tour that can be customized to your interests. Your local driver-guide will share stories and insights as you visit iconic sites like Slea Head Drive and Gallarus Oratory. Travel in the comfort of a premium Skoda Superb salon car for a relaxed exploration of West Kerry’s magic.
Enjoy a stress-free and comfortable private tour of Dingle that includes the scenic Conor Pass. Your polite and honest driver will show you all the must-see sights. This tour is flexible, allowing you to add or remove stops upon request for a personalized experience.
Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in Dingle Bay on this two-hour trip, perfect for both novice and experienced anglers. Onboard a fully licensed and equipped boat, you will have the chance to catch pollack, mackerel, ling, and cod. This fun excursion is great for adults and kids alike to enjoy the scenery.
Join a photography tour led by Micheál O’Sullivan, an experienced professional and leading authority on Irish landscape photography. Based in Killarney, these tours explore the most picturesque locations in Ireland, including scenic spots along the Wild Atlantic Way. This is the perfect opportunity for photographers to capture the beauty of Ireland's west coast.
Arrange for safe and comfortable airport transportation in the Shannon area with a trusted professional chauffeur. Our wide fleet includes luxury sedans, SUVs, and minibuses to support different group sizes. Services include flight monitoring for delays and a meet-and-greet service, where your driver will be waiting with your name on a tablet.
Arrange for private transportation with a local Dingle Peninsula-based chauffeur company. All our drivers are local and friendly, providing insightful and pleasant service. Transfers can be tailored to your specific needs, so just let us know your requirements.
Showing 5 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
On average cruises visiting Dingle are rather inexpensive compared to other itineraries. Check the graph below for the average cost per day by month. Prices are roughly the same throughout the year.
Want to hear about the best deals and cruise tips every week? Sign up for our free weekly VIP Newsletter, customized exactly to your preferences!
