Around the Old Head: A 2.5‑Hour Coastal Circuit from Kinsale

KINSALE BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Around the Old Head: A 2.5‑Hour Coastal Circuit from Kinsale

A focused 2.5-hour boat tour around Kinsale Harbour that visits the Old Head Lighthouse and the sea caves of Hole Open Bay — this guide explains what you’ll see and what to pack.

Check availabilitySee guide details

Around the Old Head: A 2.5‑Hour Coastal Circuit from Kinsale.

Duration
2.5 Hours
Location
Kinsale
Operator
Kinsale Ocean Adventures
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set out from Kinsale Harbour for a compact, scenic circuit that threads the coastline to the striking Old Head Lighthouse and its adjacent golf course, explores the sea caves at Hole Open Bay and offers chances to spot local wildlife. The itinerary combines coastal sightseeing with optional fishing and the chance to enjoy a picnic against a maritime backdrop.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDMARK

Old Head Lighthouse and Golf Course

A principal focus of the tour is the impressive Old Head Lighthouse and the nearby golf course, a distinctive coastal landmark seen during the circuit around Kinsale Harbour.

THE CAVES

Sea Caves at Hole Open Bay

The route includes exploration of the magnificent sea caves at Hole Open Bay, a standout coastal feature highlighted on the trip.

ACTIVITIES

Fishing, Wildlife and Picnicking

The package blends sightseeing with activities: guests can cast fishing lines, look for wildlife from the boat and bring a picnic lunch and drinks to enjoy along the scenic coastline.

What the day feels like

What the outing feels like

Over two and a half hours you’ll move from harbour into open coastal water, circling past the Old Head Lighthouse and along sea cliffs to the caves at Hole Open Bay. The pace is observational — a mix of guided coastal sight-seeing, pauses for fishing and time to enjoy the coastal setting with a picnic if you choose.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who gets the most from this trip — and who should check ahead.

1
Coastal SightseersIdeal for visitors who want a concise, scenic overview of Kinsale’s coastline, including the Old Head and sea caves; the trip is a short, focused outing.
2
Casual AnglersA good option if you want to cast a line from the boat — fishing is part of the package — while keeping the outing short and social.
3
Wildlife WatchersSuitable for travelers hoping to spot marine wildlife from the boat during the harbour and coastal circuit.
4
Picnic GroupsWorks well for small groups who want to bring a picnic and drinks to enjoy along the coastline during the tour.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration

The tour lasts 2.5 hours.

Meeting point

Meet at Unit 1, Shear Water, Dromderrig, Kinsale, Co. Cork, P17 P446, Ireland.

What to bring

Guests are invited to bring a picnic lunch and drinks; the itinerary also includes casting fishing lines, so bring appropriate fishing gear if you want to fish.

Operator

This trip is offered by the local operator noted for the Kinsale harbour circuit.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Old Head Trip?

The tour duration is 2.5 hours.

Where do I meet the boat?

Meet at Unit 1, Shear Water, Dromderrig, Kinsale, Co. Cork, P17 P446, Ireland.

Can I bring a picnic onboard?

Yes — guests are invited to bring a picnic lunch and drinks to enjoy along the coastline.

Is fishing part of the trip?

Yes — the package includes opportunities to cast fishing lines during the outing.

What are the main sights on the route?

The route highlights the Old Head Lighthouse and golf course and the sea caves at Hole Open Bay, plus wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Who operates this trip?

The trip is offered locally from Kinsale for the harbour and Old Head circuit.