We were under the impression that viewing would be totally enclosed. However, there are 2 small viewing areas at the stern ( one non-smoking) where good views can be had of one side of the boat. They are unlocked just after the boat leaves the moorings.Much better than looking through glass windows
Riggers, Karen F., John Rayner & I took advantage of this offer today. The weather was too calm for anything really exciting but still well worth the cost with estimates of 850 Manx Shearwater, 1450 Guillemot. 110 Gannet, 110 Kittiwake, 50 Fulmar, 50 Common Tern and 450 Razorbill. Highlights were 2 Great Skuas & 1 Sooty Shearwater; also 3 Black Guillemot, 5 Sandwich Terns, plus 50 Harbour Porpoises, 5 Grey Seals and a playful pod of 25-30 Common Dolphins
To add to my previous post, the ship leaves Holyhead at 10.30 and gets back at 15.50, Sunday to Thursday until 9 September. Journey time 2 hours 20 minutes each way with a non landing stop over in Dun Laoghaire of 40 minutes.
-- Edited by sid ashton on Tuesday 19th of August 2014 09:56:59 PM
I have done the crossing a couple of times - very comfortable trips and indeed the HSS Explorer as it called is enclosed for passengers. As Pete says there is an observation area at the front also enclosed, as well as plenty of portholes in the sitting area. At the time I wasn't particularly birding but I was able to see what was going on outside so I guess if there was anything about it would be viewable. The trip takes about 2 hours 20 minutes so that's just about £1 per hour not bad even if you see nowt
-- Edited by sid ashton on Sunday 17th of August 2014 10:11:38 PM
Stena Line are doing a £5 non landing return trip from Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire and back up to 9th Sept,could be good for a few seabirds late Aug/early Sept.Although its an enclosed ship it apparently has a viewing area at the front,seems like a good deal for a fiver
