Dublin Cruise Port
Dublin Port (Alexandra Quay)
Dublin, Ireland Port
UN/LOCODE IEDUB Port of call Homeport
Dublin Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Ireland |
| UN/LOCODE | IEDUB |
| Contact | |
| Address | Alexandra Quay, Dublin 1, Ireland |
| Port phone | +353 1 887 6000 |
| Website | www.dublinport.ie |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 53.34940, -6.22350 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The cruise terminal at Alexandra Quay sits 3 km (1.8 miles) from Dublin city centre, a distance that requires a 15-minute taxi ride costing roughly €15.00–€18.00 (~$17.50–$21.00 USD). Located on the East Coast of Ireland in the province of Leinster, Dublin is a sprawling capital that rewards those who prioritize pre-booked cultural sites over aimless wandering. Passengers who rely on public buses (Route 151) save money but lose 40 minutes of valuable sightseeing compared to those using dedicated ship shuttles. Within 100 km of the terminal, you can reach the monastic ruins of Glendalough in 70 minutes or the fishing village of Howth in just 25 minutes by suburban rail. As a dedicated ocean cruise port, Dublin's industrial harbor can feel utilitarian, but it places you at the doorstep of a city defined by Georgian elegance and literary history. Keep in mind that the primary mistake made here is attempting to walk from the Alexandra Quay berths; the route is heavy with freight traffic and lacks continuous pedestrian paths. This destination rewards the decisive traveler who books a specific entry time for the Book of Kells, while it punishes the spontaneous visitor with long queues and 'sold out' signs at major landmarks.
Dublin — Port Overview
History
Dublin’s identity was forged in the mud of the River Liffey, founded as a Viking settlement named Dubh Linn (Black Pool) in the year 841. It evolved from a medieval stronghold into the 'second city' of the British Empire during the 18th century, an era that gifted the city its hallmark Georgian architecture and wide boulevards. You will notice that the most significant historical physical traces today stem from two distinct periods: the Anglo-Norman construction of Dublin Castle in 1204 and the catastrophic, yet transformative, Easter Rising of 1916. The latter conflict, centered on the General Post Office on O'Connell Street, remains visible in the bullet-pocked stone of the facade. For centuries, the city’s economy was tied to the Irish Sea trade and the brewing prowess of the Guinness family, who signed a 9,000-year lease on the St. James's Gate Brewery in 1759. This historical continuity is what makes Dublin unique; you aren't just visiting a museum city, but a capital where the medieval cathedral, the 18th-century university, and the scars of the 20th-century revolution exist on a single walking route. When you stand on the Ha'penny Bridge today, you are crossing a structure that has charged a toll for entry into the city's heart since 1816.
The Verdict
Dublin is a city that reveals its best self to the traveler who steps off the beaten path. At this port, the people who do best are the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt it when a local suggests a better pub or a hidden gallery. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Dublin
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Little Museum of Dublin | Museum | 15 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, D02 Y048 | +353 1 661 1000 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | littlemuseum.ie | EUR €10.00 |
| St. Patrick's Cathedral | Historical Site | St Patrick's Close, Wood Quay, Dublin 8 | +353 1 453 9472 | 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Mon-Fri; Sat/Sun varies by service | stpatrickscathedral.ie | EUR €9.00 |
The Little Museum of Dublin · Museum
EUR €10.00This is the most charming museum in Europe, located in a magnificent Georgian townhouse on St. Stephen's Green. Unlike the sprawling National Museum, this is an intimate, people-led experience where every object was donated by the citizens of Dublin. You will notice that the 29-minute guided tour is mandatory—not because you can't walk around alone, but because the guides are master storytellers who bring the dry history of the 20th century to life with humor and cynicism. You will see everything from an old bus ticket to letters from famous literary figures. It delivers a sense of what it actually feels like to be a Dubliner. This attraction is consistently highly rated by cruise guests who want a deep connection to the city without the fatigue of a massive institution. It is honest, funny, and deeply moving. When you stand in the main drawing room looking out at the park, you are seeing the same view the wealthy elite saw in 1780.
15 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, D02 Y048 ·+353 1 661 1000 ·9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily ·www.littlemuseum.ie
St. Patrick's Cathedral · Historical Site
EUR €9.00Founded in 1191, this is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland and the largest church in the country. It is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, but its real value lies in the layers of history within its walls. It is a good idea to spend time in the North Transept, which houses a fascinating collection of monuments and relics. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of centuries; you can feel the transition from the medieval era to the Victorian restoration. It is worth knowing that the acoustics during a choir performance are life-changing, even for the non-religious. The cathedral is surrounded by a beautiful public park where you can see the 'literary parade' of Irish writers. It is far superior to Christ Church Cathedral if you only have time for one, as the interior is more expansive and the historical connections to Jonathan Swift (who was Dean here) add a unique literary layer that is quintessentially Dublin.
St Patrick's Close, Wood Quay, Dublin 8 ·+353 1 453 9472 ·9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Mon-Fri; Sat/Sun varies by service ·www.stpatrickscathedral.ie
Eating & Drinking in Dublin
Dublin's culinary identity is currently undergoing a massive 'New Irish' revolution. While tourists expect nothing but cabbage and potatoes, the reality is a focus on world-class dairy, grass-fed beef, and Atlantic seafood. You must try 'Colcannon' (mashed potatoes with kale or cabbage and butter) but look for the modern versions served with truffle oil or artisanal bacon. The local spirit is Whiskey (spelled with an 'e'), and it is best to try a flight at the Bow Street Distillery. Avoid ordering 'Irish Car Bombs'—it is a deeply offensive term to locals. Instead, ask for a 'Baby Guinness' (a coffee liqueur shot with a Baileys head). The street food scene is best found at the Temple Bar Food Market on Saturdays, where you can get authentic Irish oysters for €2.50 (~$3.00 USD) each. One honest note: locals almost never eat 'Irish Stew' in restaurants; it's a home-cooked comfort food. If you see it on a menu with a high price tag, it's a tourist trap.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Winding Stair | 40 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1 | +353 1 872 7320 | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM Daily | winding-stair.com | €35.00–€50.00 (~$40.00–$57.50 USD) |
| The Long Hall | 51 South Great George's Street, Dublin 2 | +353 1 475 1590 | 12:30 PM – 11:30 PM daily | €6.00–€12.00 (~$7.00–$14.00 USD) |
The Winding Stair
€35.00–€50.00 (~$40.00–$57.50 USD)Named after a Yeats poem and located above a famous bookstore, this restaurant is the epitome of modern Irish dining. The menu focuses on artisanal Irish producers—you aren't just eating salmon; you're eating salmon from a specific smokehouse in Cork. It is a good idea to request a window table for a view of the Ha'penny Bridge. The atmosphere is warm, wooden, and intellectual. It is the perfect place to hide from a Dublin rain shower with a glass of wine and a plate of the best seafood chowder in the city.
40 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1 ·+353 1 872 7320 ·12:00 PM – 10:00 PM Daily
The Long Hall
€6.00–€12.00 (~$7.00–$14.00 USD)This is not a 'theme' pub; it is a meticulously preserved Victorian masterpiece dating to 1881. Locals come here for the quiet atmosphere and the respect shown to the drink. There is no music and no television—just the sound of conversation. This is recommended over the 'famous' pubs because it remains an authentic local haunt where you can actually hear yourself think. It is the most beautiful bar in Dublin, bar none.
51 South Great George's Street, Dublin 2 ·+353 1 475 1590 ·12:30 PM – 11:30 PM daily
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the Irish Sea docks and reach the city centre, Dublin is best explored on foot. The historic core is compact, spanning roughly 2 km from east to west. For longer distances, the Luas (tram) is the most efficient method. A TFI Leap Visitor Card is the gold standard for transit; a 24-hour pass costs €8.00 (~$9.50 USD) and can be purchased at Spar or Centra convenience stores near the shuttle drop-off. Uber operates in Dublin but functions exclusively as a taxi-hailing service; you will get a licensed taxi driver at standard metered rates. Do not expect lower UberX prices. Bike rentals via 'Dublinbikes' are available at 115 stations, but avoid cycling in the city centre for visitors; the bus lanes and tram tracks on O'Connell Street are notoriously dangerous for those unfamiliar with the local traffic flow. A navigation tip most guides omit: look for the 'Spire' on O'Connell Street as your permanent North star; if you are south of the Liffey and can see it, you are heading toward the city's main artery.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Dublin
Trinity College & The Book of Kells
9:30 AM (75 min)
You are here for the Long Room and the 9th-century manuscript. It is a sensory experience of old vellum and polished oak. Most visitors miss the 'Brian Boru Harp' in the Long Room—the oldest surviving Irish harp. It is worth arriving 15 minutes before your ticketed slot.
- Ship shuttle to Merrion Square followed by an 8-minute walk west. (Included in shuttle pass)
- Entry: €18.50 ($21.50)
- Book the earliest possible slot (9:30 AM). If you arrive at 11:00 AM without a ticket, you will not get in.
Grafton Street & Stephen's Green
11:00 AM (60 min)
This is Dublin’s premier pedestrian thoroughfare. Watch the world-class buskers near the Disney Store. Walk through the Fusiliers' Arch into St. Stephen’s Green for a moment of quiet. Most visitors overlook the memorial to the 1916 Rising hidden in the park's shrubs.
- A 3-minute walk from the Trinity College front gate. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- For the best view of the street's energy, stand on the second-floor balcony of Bewley’s Café.
Lunch Recommendation
L. Mulligan. Grocer.
It is a gastropub in the trendy Stoneybatter neighborhood that avoids all the 'Oirish' clichés of Temple Bar while serving superior local craft beer and farm-to-table Irish ingredients.
Order: Scotch Egg with black pudding, Pan-fried Hake with local seasonal greens
18 Stoneybatter, Dublin 7, D07 KN52
Cost: €25.00 (~$29.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Dublin
Kilmainham Gaol
9:00 AM (120 min)
This is the most powerful historical site in Dublin. You walk through the cold, Victorian cells where the leaders of the 1916 Rising were held before execution. It is haunting and essential for understanding modern Ireland. Most visitors miss the small museum upstairs which holds personal letters from prisoners.
- Take the Luas Red Line from Abbey Street to Suir Road, then a 5-minute walk. (€2.00 (~$2.50 USD))
- Entry: €8.00 ($9.50)
- Tickets sell out 28 days in advance. Do not bother showing up without a pre-purchased online booking.
Getting back to the ship
The absolute latest safe departure time from the city centre (Merrion Square) is 90 minutes before your 'All Aboard' time. If your ship leaves at 6:00 PM (All Aboard 5:30 PM), you must be in a taxi or at the shuttle stop by 4:00 PM. Dublin traffic is notoriously unpredictable between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM due to commuter rush hour. A taxi from the city centre to Alexandra Quay will cost roughly €18.00 (~$21.00 USD). If you are running late, call the Port Agent (number on your daily program). The ship will not hold for independent passengers. If you miss the ship, you will likely need to take a ferry to Holyhead or fly to the next port (often Liverpool or Belfast), which is a costly and logistical nightmare.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Dublin
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April to October
10°C–19°C (50°F–66°F). Expect frequent rain showers, high humidity, and overcast skies. Wind speeds off the Irish Sea average 15–20 km/h.
What to wear: Layering is non-negotiable. A waterproof, wind-resistant outer shell is more important than an umbrella. Sturdy is recommended, closed-toe walking shoes to handle the wet cobblestones and granite sidewalks. Avoid sandals; the dampness and urban grit make them uncomfortable for long walks. Sun protection is needed even on cloudy days due to high UV reflection off the water.
Weather risks: Gale-force winds can occasionally delay docking or departure. Heavy fog in the Irish Sea can lead to morning arrival delays of 1–2 hours.
June and July offer the longest daylight, with the sun setting as late as 10:00 PM.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring and Summer (May–August) | Variable with frequent 'soft' rain (mist) and temperatures between 14°C and 19°C (57°F–66°F). | The uneven cobblestones in Temple Bar and around Trinity College become exceptionally slick when damp. Strong winds common near the Irish Sea terminal. | Temple Bar, Trinity College Front Square, Dublin Port Alexandra Quay. | Wear shoes with significant rubber grip. Do not rely on an umbrella; the Irish wind often renders them useless. A light, hooded waterproof shell is the professional choice. |
| Autumn (September–October) | Cooler, with increased rainfall and decreasing daylight. Temperatures average 10°C to 15°C (50°F–59°F). | Wet fallen leaves on the granite sidewalks of Georgian Dublin create a fall risk for those using walkers or canes. | Merrion Square, St. Stephen’s Green, Fitzwilliam Square. | Stay on the center of the granite slabs which are textured; the edges near the gutters are smoother and more hazardous when wet. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals greet each other with a nod and a 'Howya'—it is informal and friendly. When entering a small shop or pub, a general 'Good morning' to the room is appreciated. American visitors often make the mistake of over-tipping; in Dublin, 10-12% is standard for good service in restaurants, and rounding up to the nearest Euro is sufficient for taxis. Do not tip at the bar when ordering drinks; it is not expected. Photography is generally allowed everywhere except during religious services in cathedrals. Irish people value 'the craic' (good conversation and fun) but are also quite private; do not take photos of locals in pubs without asking. Queueing is a national pastime; never cut a line for a bus or at a counter, as it is seen as a major character flaw. A common misunderstanding is the concept of 'buying a round'—if a local offers to buy you a drink, you are culturally obligated to buy the next one. If you don't intend to stay for a second, politely decline the first.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the first hour at the Dublin Port 'market' kiosks. |
Mistaking Temple Bar for 'the real Dublin'. |
Not pre-booking Kilmainham Gaol. |
Trying to walk from Alexandra Quay to the city centre. |
Practical tips
Dublin is largely a cashless city; Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere from taxis to market stalls. However, keep €20.00 in cash for small bus fares or if a card machine fails in a smaller pub. Tipping is 10% in restaurants; no tip is needed for bar service. Five phrases for goodwill: 'Go raibh maith agat' (Thank you - pronounced 'Gurrev mah agut'), 'Sláinte' (Cheers - 'Slawn-cha'), 'The Craic' (Fun/News), 'Grand' (Everything is fine), and 'Cheers' (used for everything). Scams: Watch for 'charity' collectors in Temple Bar who are aggressive; simply walk past. Dress code: No specific rules for cathedrals other than general modesty (no hats inside). The best time to visit the Book of Kells is the 9:30 AM slot; by 11:00 AM, the queue is a 45-minute wait even with a ticket.
Why Book With Waterways Cruise?
Four decades of expertise, one dedicated advisor, and every detail handled, from your front door to the gangway and back.
Personal Service — Your Own Cruise Concierge
Tailor-Made — 100% Custom-Built
Expertise — 40+ Years in Travel
Price Watch — Book With Total Confidence
Signature Sailings
All Cruise Lines at Dublin (A–Z)
Nearby Ports
FAQ — Dublin
Is the Guinness Storehouse worth the visit for a non-drinker?
Yes, absolutely. The Guinness Storehouse is less about the beer and more about the industrial history and marketing genius of the Guinness family. The architecture of the building, a former fermentation plant designed like a giant pint glass, is a marvel in itself. The Gravity Bar at the top provides a 360-degree view of Dublin that is arguably the best in the city. For a non-drinker, the €26.00 (~$30.00 USD) entry includes a soft drink in the Gravity Bar. Feedback frequently indicates that the 'history of advertising' floor is a highlight for visitors. Book your entry for 10:00 AM to avoid the mid-day coach crowds. For a guaranteed seamless visit, book an excursion.
How do I get to the Howth cliff walk from the cruise ship?
The most efficient way is to take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train. From the Alexandra Quay terminal, take a taxi to the Connolly Station (10 mins, €12.00). Purchase a round-trip ticket to Howth for roughly €5.00 (~$6.00 USD). The train journey takes 25 minutes and follows the scenic coastline of the Irish Sea. Once in Howth, the cliff walk trail starts right at the harbor. It is a 6 km (3.7 mile) loop that takes about 90 minutes. Ensure you are back at the Howth station at least 2.5 hours before your ship departs to account for train frequency and the taxi back to the industrial port area.
Can I see both the Book of Kells and the Guinness Storehouse in one day?
You can, but only with a strict plan. You must book the 9:30 AM slot for the Book of Kells at Trinity College. After your 75-minute visit, take a taxi directly to the Guinness Storehouse (15 mins, €12.00) for an 11:30 AM entry. Spend 2 hours there, including lunch in their canteen. This leaves you the afternoon for a walk through St. Stephen’s Green before heading back to the Irish Sea docks. Do not attempt this using public buses; the transit times are too inconsistent. This 'Double Header' is recommended only for those with a minimum 8-hour port call. Private drivers who can facilitate this specific route may be found online.
What is the best way to see the colorful Georgian doors?
The highest density of well-preserved Georgian doors is found on the south side of Merrion Square and along Fitzwilliam Street. From the typical cruise shuttle drop-off at Merrion Square, it is a 2-minute walk. It is a good idea to walk the full perimeter of the square to see the various colors and ornate brass knockers. For a more 'local' feel without the tourists, walk 10 minutes further to Baggot Street. There is no cost for this, but please remember these are private residences and offices; remain on the public sidewalk. The light is best for photography between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
Is Dublin safe for solo walking?
Dublin is generally very safe for tourists, but like any capital, it has areas to avoid. The city centre south of the Liffey (Grafton St, Merrion Sq) is extremely safe. North of the Liffey around O'Connell St is also safe during the day but can feel 'edgy' late at night near the boardwalks. It is best to avoid walking alone through the industrial docks of the Irish Sea port area—not due to crime, but due to heavy machinery and lack of pedestrian infrastructure. Stick to the main thoroughfares and keep your bags zipped in crowded areas like Temple Bar where pickpockets occasionally operate. Emergency services are reached by dialing 112.
Where can I find real Irish music that isn't a tourist show?
For authentic 'Trad' (traditional) music, head to O'Donoghue's on Merrion Row or The Cobblestone in Smithfield. O'Donoghue's is a 5-minute walk from the Merrion Square shuttle drop-off. Music usually starts in the late afternoon (around 4:00 PM). There is no cover charge; you simply buy a drink and find a corner. Avoid the 'Musical Pub Crawls' sold in Temple Bar if you want the genuine experience. At The Cobblestone, you'll see musicians of all ages sitting in a circle sharing tunes. It is a 20-minute taxi ride from the port, costing about €18.00 (~$21.00 USD). A customized music-focused itinerary can be arranged in advance through your cruise line or a licensed local operator.
What should I buy if I want a genuine Irish souvenir?
Bypass the plastic leprechauns and look for Foxford Woolen Mills rugs or Avoca hand-weaves. A high-quality lambswool throw will cost around €80.00 (~$92.00 USD) and is a functional, beautiful piece of Irish craft. You can find these at the Avoca store on Suffolk Street, which is a 5-minute walk from Trinity College. Another excellent choice is handmade jewelry featuring the Claddagh or Celtic knots, but ensure it has the Dublin Assay Office hallmark. For a small, packable gift, Irish sea salt or handmade soaps from the 'Walled Garden' collections are popular and authentic. Most shops will offer tax-free shopping forms for non-EU residents.
Is the Hop-On Hop-Off bus a good idea in Dublin?
Generally, no. Dublin's city centre suffers from significant traffic congestion, especially around the Liffey bridges. It is worth noting that you can often walk between the major sites faster than the bus can navigate the one-way systems. The bus costs €25.00 (~$29.00 USD) per person. If you have mobility issues, it provides a decent overview, but for active travelers, a combination of walking and the Luas tram is far more efficient. If you do use it, stay on for one full loop to get the history, then get off and walk.
Can I use British Pounds (GBP) in Dublin?
No. Dublin is in the Republic of Ireland, which uses the Euro (€). While Belfast and Northern Ireland use GBP, they are not accepted in Dublin shops or taxis. Most places will take card, but if you have leftover Pounds, you will need to exchange them at a bank or use an ATM to withdraw Euro. The exchange rate is fixed at €1 = $1.15 USD. Trying to pay in GBP will result in either a flat refusal or a very poor exchange rate offered by the merchant. Always choose 'Pay in Local Currency' if prompted by a card machine.
What is the best way to get to the EPIC Emigration Museum?
The EPIC Museum is located in the CHQ Building at Custom House Quay. From the Alexandra Quay cruise terminal, it is a 10-minute taxi ride costing about €12.00 (~$14.00 USD). It is also accessible via the Luas Red Line (George's Dock stop). It is a fully digital, high-tech museum that tells the story of the 10 million people who left Ireland. It is an excellent choice for a rainy day as it is entirely indoors. Admission is €19.00 (~$22.00 USD). Visitors should allow 90 minutes for the visit. It is located right next to the Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship, making for a perfect 3-hour history block.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.