Dublin Port’s Window to the World: How Three Webcams Are Connecting Dublin to a Global Audience
19 December 2025
Dublin Port has unveiled a new chapter in its digital presence with the launch of three high-performance webcams, offering real-time views of port operations and Dublin Bay. What began as a simple concept has evolved into a substantial technical undertaking involving careful planning, complex engineering, and collaboration across multiple teams.
A Technically Advanced System Built for Port Operations
Speaking about the project, Declan Kelly, Kelcom, the primary technology provider, said: “The project began with identifying the port operations radar tower as the ideal location for the first camera. From there, the brief was straightforward: create a streamlined system capable of sending a direct live feed to YouTube without external equipment.
To achieve this, specialised software was integrated within the cameras themselves, enabling them to transmit footage directly to YouTube over an internet connection. A built-in ten-minute delay serves as a critical safety feature, giving the Port’s Vessel Traffic Service enough time to cut the stream if required.
Although the setup may look simple from the outside, delivering it required coordinated work across teams. Accessing the tower alone involves a 50-metre climb and extensive safety checks, with weather conditions dictating when work can safely take place.”
Bringing the Poolbeg Lighthouse to Life
From a Dublin Port perspective, Lynette Harcourt, Digital Marketing Manager, said: “One of the most distinctive views comes from the webcam installed at Poolbeg Lighthouse. Positioned at the end of the Great South Wall, the lighthouse has no mains power, so the system relies on a hybrid of solar and wind energy. A specialised power converter and a point-to-point radio link then transmit the footage almost four kilometres back to the port.
Before installation, every element was benchtested in collaboration with the port’s technical teams to ensure seamless performance once deployed at the lighthouse. This meticulous preparation was essential in an environment that is both remote and exposed to the elements.”
Built for Dublin Bay, Seen Around the World
The cameras are engineered for harsh marine environments, using highly robust, energy-efficient, and largely PVC-free components designed to provide long-term resilience.
Beyond their technical specifications, the webcams have quickly developed a strong following. Since launching in 2024, they have attracted more than 3.2 million views, with audiences watching from 107 countries. Viewers tune in to watch ships arrive and depart, observe storms rolling across Dublin Bay, and enjoy time-lapse clips shared across social media.
The webcams have also caught the attention of international broadcasters, weather services, and online communities, all of whom use the footage to showcase life on the water.
Dublin Port’s YouTube channel has continued to grow since the first stream went live, with thousands of new subscribers discovering the port’s operations in a fresh and engaging way.
Learning and Looking Ahead
For the teams involved, the project has been a continual learning journey, adapting to the port’s operational environment while integrating new technologies. The experience has strengthened capabilities across communications, security systems, and digital infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the port sees further potential for these digital tools. In time, camera systems like these can enhance safety monitoring, support operational awareness, and provide new data to help improve efficiency across the estate.
A New Way to See Dublin
The webcams now offer one of the most captivating views of Dublin Bay, from the city skyline to the busy shipping channels. For those who have not yet tuned in, the Poolbeg Lighthouse camera is a standout favourite. With waves along the Great South Wall and ships gliding past the horizon, it provides an entirely new perspective on life at Dublin Port.