DLR Invites Tenders for Operation of New Wheelchair-Accessible Boating Service

Boathub will be centred around an electric Wheelyboat V20, funded by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council with support from Green Kite and Community Foundation Ireland. On completion, it will be the first electrically powered, wheelchair‑accessible boating vessel of its kind in Ireland. The vessel is currently under construction as part of the wider project development, and the Council will provide the boat along with an accessible berth, associated equipment, and operational supports.

The service is intended to provide free-to-access, bookable boating experiences delivered to the same standard and quality as those available to able-bodied users. Indicative activities may include leisure boat trips within the harbour and local coastal waters, accessible fishing trips, and certified powerboat or safety boat training, subject to regulatory and licensing requirements.

DLR is inviting tenders from suitably qualified and experienced organisations, including marine leisure or training operators, social enterprises, community or voluntary organisations, and disability or inclusion-focused organisations with relevant marine expertise. The appointed operator will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the service, including staffing, safety management, customer experience and compliance with all applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.

The Request for Tender is now available on eTenders.

The closing date for queries is 12noon on 15 May 2026, and the deadline for tender submissions is 12noon on 22 May 2026. All queries and submissions must be submitted through the eTenders portal. Interested parties are encouraged to review the documentation in detail and submit tenders in line with the published requirements. 

Subject to procurement and mobilisation timelines, it is anticipated that the Boathub service will be live for bookings later this summer.