About H2QO WaterSports by Swan Leisure

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

Swan Leisure

River Reflects the Sky

woman in kayak at Liffey River in Dublin - H2QO

Approaching the Samuel Beckett Bridge

Launch with President Connolly

Sunset Currach

Join the Team at HQ2O HQ2O Watersports is already making waves on the River Liffey. Based at Custom House Quay, we’re bringing people onto the water every day — from first-time paddlers and school groups to corporate teams and visitors looking to experience Dublin from a completely new perspective. With activities including kayaking, canoeing, hydrobikes and traditional Irish currachs, HQ2O has quickly become a vibrant new addition to the city. Now, we’re looking for a General Manager to take this growing operation to the next level. We’re Hiring: General Manager This is a hands-on leadership role at the heart of a new, customer-focused outdoor facility. We’re looking for someone who can confidently oversee daily operations while continuing to grow and shape the HQ2O experience — someone who brings energy, organisation, and a genuine passion for people and the outdoors. What You’ll Be Responsible For As General Manager, you’ll lead the day-to-day running of HQ2O Watersports — ensuring every experience on the water is safe, smooth, and memorable. Your role will include: • Managing operations: coordinating daily schedules, staffing, and programme delivery • Delivering great experiences: overseeing tours, sessions, and group activities • Leading your team: recruiting, training, and developing a strong team culture • Ensuring safety standards: maintaining best practice across all water-based activities • Overseeing equipment & facilities: ensuring everything is maintained and ready to go • Driving growth: building relationships with schools, businesses, and tourism partners • Developing programmes: creating seasonal offerings that reflect fun, wellbeing, and community Who We’re Looking For We’re looking for a strong leader who thrives in an active, people-focused environment. You’ll likely bring: • Experience in water sports or outdoor recreation management (3+ years preferred) • Excellent leadership and organisational skills • A customer-first mindset and the ability to problem solve in real time • Energy, initiative, and a hands-on approach Why Join HQ2O Watersports? HQ2O isn’t just a place to work — it’s a place to build something meaningful. Operated by Swan Leisure, everything we do is guided by our core values: • Creativity – Reimagining the Liffey as a dynamic outdoor space • Community – Connecting people through shared experiences • Learning – Building confidence and skills on the water • Inclusivity – Making water sports accessible to all • Team – Creating real connections through activity As General Manager, you’ll play a key role in shaping how HQ2O continues to grow, evolve, and become part of everyday life in Dublin. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you’re ready to lead, inspire, and grow a unique water sports experience in the heart of the city, we’d love to hear from you. 📩 Apply by sending your CV to: clodagh@swanleisure.ie

Girl Guides Team Building

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.

man with orange life jacket - H2QO WaterSports

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

Support the Fund

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

Canoeing Ireland

Docklands Buisness Forum

Fáilte Ireland

Happy Out x Together Academy

The Jeanie Johnston

Leinster Open Sea

Phoenix Rowing Club

Sunset Kayaking at Liffey River - H2QO WaterSports

About Us