VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at the Viking Splash Tours

Viking Splash Tours, established in 1999, is one of Dublin’s most unique and entertaining sightseeing experiences, offering a 75-minute amphibious adventure aboard restored World War II DUKW vehicles. These bright yellow, boat-shaped vehicles travel through Dublin’s streets and into the Grand Canal Basin, combining history, humor, and a splash of fun. Departing from Saint Stephen’s Green North (opposite the Cliff Townhouse, Dublin 2, D02 N960), the tour is ideal for families, couples, and groups seeking a lively introduction to the city.

Land and Water Tour: The tour begins on land, cruising through Dublin’s historic streets in an open-air DUKW, where passengers don Viking helmets and practice the iconic “Viking roar” at unsuspecting pedestrians (referred to as “Celts”). Key sights include Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College, Dublin Castle, Mansion House, Leinster House, Merrion Square, the Four Courts, O’Connell Bridge, Liberty Hall, Custom House, and Georgian Dublin. The tour’s climax is the splash into the Grand Canal Basin for a 15-minute water cruise, passing U2’s recording studios and Dublin Docklands, offering a unique aquatic perspective of the city.
Entertaining Guides: The costumed Viking guides, such as Keith, Chris, Kenny, or Vinnie, are the heart of the experience, blending historical facts with humor, local anecdotes, and interactive banter. Reviews highlight their wit, with guides delivering “comedy gig and city tour combined”. They share insights into Dublin’s Viking, medieval, and Georgian history, peppered with jokes that appeal to both locals and tourists, though some humor will be more relatable to Irish audiences. The tour is engaging for all ages, though younger children may need more interaction to stay entertained.
Interactive and Fun Atmosphere: Passengers are encouraged to roar at passersby, creating a playful, theatrical vibe. The DUKW’s 28 seats ensure an intimate experience, and the open vehicle provides great views but can be breezy—dressing warmly is advised. The tour is described as “fabulous fun” and “laugh-until-you-cry” entertainment, with guides keeping spirits high even during rare breakdowns. It’s perfect for families, stag/hen parties, birthdays, or casual visitors, with a lighthearted mix of education and laughter.
Practicalities: Tours run seven days a week, typically every 30–90 minutes (frequent in summer, reduced in winter), lasting 1 hour 15 minutes (1 hour on land, 15 minutes on water). Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at Saint Stephen’s Green North (bus stop 790). Tickets cost approximately €25 (check vikingsplash.com for exact prices), with group bookings welcome. Children under 3 are not permitted, and kids aged 2 must disembark with an adult during the water portion for safety. Life jackets are provided, but no food, drink, or toilets are available onboard, so plan accordingly. The tour is budget-friendly, fully licensed, and adheres to high safety standards. Booking online in advance is recommended, as spaces fill quickly, especially in peak season (June–August).
Accessibility and Surroundings: The tour starts and ends near Grafton Street, close to attractions like Saint Stephen’s Green, the National Museum of Ireland, and Temple Bar’s pubs and shops. The DUKW is not wheelchair-accessible due to its design, and climbing aboard requires moderate mobility. The route is ideal for rainy days, though expect some exposure to weather. Visitors can combine the tour with nearby sights for a full day in Dublin.

What’s New:

Enhanced Digital Booking: Viking Splash Tours is streamlining its online booking system via vikingsplash.com, making it easier to secure spots, especially for group bookings or peak times. This responds to feedback about the need for advance reservations due to high demand.
Potential Themed Events: Building on its popularity for group events like stag/hen parties, 2025 will see new themed tours or special event packages, such as Halloween or Christmas specials, to capitalise on Dublin’s festive tourism.
Improved Guide Training: Following reviews praising guides like Keith and Vinnie for their humor and knowledge, the tour may focus on enhancing guide training to ensure consistency, especially for international visitors who might miss local humor. Expect more tailored commentary to engage diverse audiences, including children.
Continued Recognition: Voted one of Dublin’s best tours, the attraction’s 2025 season will leverage its recent UNESCO World Heritage Tentative Listing for Dublin’s Viking heritage (related to sites like Wood Quay) to highlight its historical relevance, adding new Viking history facts to the tour.

Practical Information

Saint Stephen’s Green North, stop 790, Dublin 2, D02 N960.
Contact: vikingsplash.com (phone not listed; use website for inquiries).
Tips: Book online at vikingsplash.com to secure spots. Arrive 15 minutes early. Dress warmly for the open-air DUKW. Ideal for ages 4+ due to interactive nature; under 2s not allowed. Combine with nearby Temple Bar or Trinity College for a full day. Check the website for tour times, as schedules vary seasonally.

Viking Splash Tours offers a hilarious, informative, and unforgettable way to explore Dublin by land and water, with enhanced booking systems and potential themed events adding to its appeal. For the latest details, visit vikingsplash.com