Viking Splash Tours are a fun, entertaining and unique way to learn about the history of Dublin city and its founders the vikings, on land and water. Tours take place on board a bright yellow Dukw, an authentic World War II amphibious vehicle, one of only a few hundred remaining in the world. Passengrs will need to don their viking headgear and then they are ready to go. Theses tours are a great and fun way for all ages to see and learn about the history and sites of Dublin city.
The costumed viking captains piloting these Dukws will then take visitors through the main sites and scenes of the capital, with a running commentary on the most exciting sights here in the city. First off it is necessary to learn some viking chants as they will be needed during the tour. At every traffic light passengers are expected to shout the fabled Viking roar at off guard “Celts” as they go about their daily business. Great fun especially for younger visitors.
The adventure commences at St Stephen’s Green in the centre of the city, passengers are then taken to the middle of Viking Dublin in the area around St Patrick’s and Christchurch Cathedral and Wood Quay. From here the Dukw travels along the quays passing various historic buildings and places of interest. Then it passes back over the Liffey and the tour continues on the south side of the city incorporating a number of historic and interesting places along the way.
For most the next section of the tour is the most interesting as it involves the water portion. Once everyone has acquired and is wearing their life vest the vehicle enters the water at the historic Grand Canal Basin. When in the water they will pass the Naomh Enna Ferry, in the past this was the only connection the Aran Islands had with the mainland. It was used to transport all types of goods from farm machinery to livestock and food. Other sights that passengers will see are the old Bolands Mill, famous as one of the battlegrounds of the 1916 rising, as well as the U2 recording studios. Passengers get views of the city not available on any other tours.
Once back on dry land the Dukw travels back to the city and the drop off point.
Tours are informative, interesting and engaging and will keep visitors entertained throughout, an unrivalled and quirky experience here in the city. Make sure to dress appropriately as the Dukw is a open vehicle and it can be cold and breezy.
Viking Splash Tours operate seven days a week. Tours last around an hour on land and fifteen minutes on the water.