Shearwater Sea Kayaking
Sea Kayaking & Coastal Adventures 🛶🌊
Based in the scenic fishing village of Howth, North County Dublin, Shearwater Sea Kayaking is one of Ireland’s premier sea kayaking schools. Founded by Sean Pierce and Eileen Murphy—two of the country’s most experienced paddlers who have circumnavigated the entire Irish coastline—the centre focuses on high-level instruction and immersive guided tours.
While they operate on the east coast, they are a frequent destination for West of Ireland residents looking for advanced certification and technical training. Specialising in the “hidden gems” of the Fingal coastline, they offer unique kayakign tours of Ireland’s Eye and the Lambay Island archipelago in Dublin and various scenic places in Connemara Galway, combining professional B.H.U./Canoeing Ireland standards with a deep passion for marine ecology and local history.
Specialised Training & Guided Expeditions
The centre is renowned for its progressive learning structure, moving students from basic harbor safety to advanced open-sea navigation.
| Programme | Course Details | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Try Sea Kayaking | Introductory Day | A “come and try” session in the sheltered waters of Howth Harbour. |
| Skills Courses | Levels 1 – 4 | Certified Canoeing Ireland training focusing on rescues and technical strokes. |
| Island Tours | Ireland’s Eye | Guided trips to see the puffins, gannets, and sea caves of the local islands. |
| Advanced Clinics | Rolling & Navigation | Specialised workshops for experienced paddlers looking to master the Eskimo roll. |
Booking Schedule & Rates
Season: Open year-round (Weather dependent).
Full Day Course: Typically €95 – €120 per person.
Weekend Intensive: Typically €180 – €220 (Saturday & Sunday).
Equipment: Professional-grade sea kayaks, paddles, spray decks, and buoyancy aids are provided.
Note: Unlike “sit-on-top” rentals, Shearwater uses closed-cockpit sea kayaks, which offer a more authentic and technical paddling experience but require a brief safety orientation.
Contact & Meeting Information
Phone: +353 086 8368736
Email: [email protected]
Meeting Point: Usually the Middle Pier, Howth Harbour, Dublin, Ireland.
Logistics Tip: There is public parking available on the pier, but it fills up fast on weekends. Arriving 20 minutes early allows you time to find a spot and get fitted for your gear without rushing.
FAQs about Shearwater Sea Kayaking
Do I need to have my own wetsuit?
While many regulars bring their own, Shearwater can provide wetsuits and paddling jackets if needed. It is best to mention your size requirements at the time of booking.
Is there an age limit for the courses?
Most courses are designed for adults (18+), but teenagers (16+) can often participate if accompanied by an adult. The focus is on technical skill, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
What happens if the sea is too rough?
Eileen and Sean are safety-first instructors. If the wind or swell is too high for a particular group’s skill level, the session may be moved to the sheltered harbour, rescheduled, or refunded.
About the Sea Kayaking Courses
With Shearwater Sea Kayaking you can explore the deserted islands, coral beaches and unique wildlife of Connemara under the ever-present backdrop of the Twelve Bens. Shearwater Sea Kayaking offers you sea kayaking instruction courses as well as guided and customized trips led by instructors who want to inspire and enthuse you. So come on board, you won’t be disappointed!
Tip: If you’re travelling from Galway for a weekend course, Howth is easily accessible via the DART from Dublin city centre. For the best wildlife experience, book an “Ireland’s Eye” trip in late spring or early summer when the bird colonies are at their most active—you might even spot the resident grey seals lounging on the rocks!
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