Powered by Swan Leisure, HQ2O brings water adventures, wellness, and community together - safely and sustainably.
Who We Are
HQ2O Watersports was built by Dublin City Council in 2025 and is operated by a private company – Swan Leisure, trading as HQ2O Watersports. Swan Leisure is a not-for-profit organisation delivering inclusive, high-quality, and sustainable river-based experiences that connect locals, schools, businesses, and tourists with the water, the city, and each other
Our mission is to increase participation in water sports and promote fitness and wellness by delivering a community-first, experience-led hub offering accessible, inclusive, and high-quality activities on the River Liffey in Dublin’s historic Docklands.
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Values
Our core values represent the best traits in our staff and what we all bring to HQ2O Watersports every day. These values reflect what we collectively care most about as an organization.
Inclusivity
We believe the river is for everyone. Our programmes are designed to welcome people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities — making water sports truly accessible.
Community
At our heart is a commitment to building community — from local groups and schools to corporate teams and urban explorers — we create space for people to come together outdoors on the water.
Creativity
We bring fresh energy to the city by reimagining the Liffey as a dynamic outdoor playground — using water sports to inspire new ways to connect, move, and engage with our environment.
Learning
We deliver fun, skill-building experiences for schools, teams, and community groups — building confidence and connection to the water.
Team
Whether you’re part of a work crew, a school group, or meeting new faces for the first time, our experiences foster real connection, collaboration, and a strong sense of team.
Community Focus: Paddle It Forward
Our Paddle It Forward Fund is a dedicated, ring‑fenced fund that supports programmes and partnerships we truly believe in. Through this fund, we help more people enjoy the physical, mental, and social benefits of being on the water — no matter their age, background, or ability.
1. Active Age Program
We’re committed to helping older adults stay active, connected, and confident. Our Active Age Programme gives seniors the chance to enjoy water sports in a safe, supportive environment — offering gentle exercise, improved wellbeing, and the unique experience of accessing the River Liffey at any stage of life
2. Together Academy
We’re proud to partner with The Together Academy, an organisation that provides training, education, and employment opportunities for young adults with Down syndrome. Together Academy, in partnership with Happy Out, operate our on‑site café — creating meaningful work experience and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who visits
3. Disability Access
Our Disability Access initiative focuses on removing barriers so that people with disabilities can fully enjoy the water. We work to create inclusive experiences that support physical, sensory, and emotional wellbeing — ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from time on the river
Facilities
HQ2O Watersports is part of the DCC Quayside Project, a flagship urban regeneration initiative on North Wall Quay
Key Info about our facilities
- New Modern Building
- Comfortable changing rooms and toilets
- Fully accessible for additional needs
- Hot Showers
- Meeting Rooms
- Training Facilities
- Extended Pontoon along the riverside
Partners
We’re lucky to collaborate with incredible organisations that support our mission and help us do more for the people we serve. From national sporting bodies to social enterprises and cultural institutions, these partnerships help us create opportunities, remove barriers, and enrich the experience for everyone who joins us on the water
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