Whalewatching in Ireland is a comparatively new industry ... so new that the Irish tourism authorities used footage from foreign lands to promote it and ended up with egg on the collective face. It is also an activity for those who can wait. While marine mammals are fairly numerous in the Irish waters, spotting them can be a rare treat at times. Unless you go to Dingle and observe the unnatural behaviour of “Fungie”.
The Irish government has declared Ireland a whale and dolphin sanctuary in 1991 – which was a nifty move that did not really meant giving up massive hunting activities, but scored loads of brownie points with the eco crowd. Today, the Irish waters are home (at least temporarily) to more than two dozen species of cetaceans, including the massive fin whale. Dolphins and porpoises are, however, the most regular “spottees”, even in harbors, and seals are to be found all along the coastline.
Surprises also include the giant basking shark (harmless ... but you’ll die of a heart attack) and the odd orca.
The best spotting areas are along the west coast, though sightings can take place nearly everywhere. See the IWDG website (below) for sighting reports. Many areas have “spotting points”, raised land with an unrivalled view out to sea – you only need to bring a flask of tea, a picnic, eyeglasses and time.
Further Information:
The best primer on all things whales and dolphins is the website of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group.
There are a number of whalewatching tour operators, for instance Whale Watch West Cork and West Cork Marine Tours.
