skelligs rock boat trips

Boat Trips to the Skellig Isles

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Skellig landing tours – We are now taking bookings for landing tours for Skellig Michael.  You will have roughly two and a half hours to explore this dramatic island following in the footsteps of the ancient monks of Skellig Michael.

Skellig non-landing eco tours – if you don’t fancy ascending the 618 steps to the Skellig Michael monastery, you might prefer our Skellig islands non-landing tour taking in both Skellig Michael and the awe-inspiring gannet colony on Little Skellig. We encounter numerous other seabirds too such as shags, cormorants, razorbills, guillemots, puffins and storm petrels as well as fulmars and shearwaters.

Bull Rock trips – we are also offering scenic wildlife tours to the historic Bull Rock. Our trip takes you across the mouth of Kenmare Bay past to the Beara peninsula and Dursey Island, home of Ireland’s only cable car, and weather permitting through the dramatic natural tunnel carved into Bull Rock. This trip usually encounters dolphins and whales.

Dolphin watching trips – This roughly two hour trip cruises past wild Atlantic headlands on the lookout for common dolphins, humpbacks and Minke whales, and sometimes Risso’s dolphins and occasionally other large whales. On our travels we encounter an array of seabirds such as the graceful shearwaters. 

Please book below.

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SKELLIG MICHAEL TOURS AND SKELLIG LANDING TOURS

With casey’s skellig islands tours.

On the  Skellig Michael Landing Tour you get off the boat and step on to the island . With the Skellig Michael Boat Tour you stay on the boat as it goes around both the Skellig Islands getting right up close to see the historic sites and wildlife on Skellig Michael and the gannet colony on Little Skelligs. The Skellig Landing Tour season begins mid May and finishes on Sept 30th . The Skellig Boat Tour season runs from April to end September .

SKELLIG MICHAEL ECO TOURS

See the wildlife, historical sites and little Skelligs gannet colony

SKELLIG MICHAEL LANDING TOURS

Climb the 618 steps to the monastery on Great Skellig

STAR WARS FILMING ON SKELLIG MICHAEL

Scenes from the latest Star Wars trilogy were filmed on Skelligs

BIRD LIFE ON THE SKELLIG ISLANDS

Thousands of birds such as puffins, gannets and guillemots nest here.

Two types of Skellig Michael Tour

Skellig Michael Eco Tour around both Islands and Skellig Michael Landing Tour

The Skellig Michael Eco Tours depart regularly throughout the day. On this tour the boat circles around Skellig Michael and Little Skelligs. This allows you get up close to both Skellig Islands. From here you can see both the wildlife and the historical sites. The Skellig Michael Landing Tour departs Portmagee marina only once per day. The departure time changes frequently depending on the sea conditions as well as the available Skellig Michael Landing time slots. The boat arrives back from the Skellig Islands in the afternoon. There is also an option of an  Audio Visual Boat Tour   about Skelligs History and Wildlife. All our Skelligs Michael Tours are dependent on the sea and weather conditions. The tours are popular especially in the busy season so it is advisable to book well in advance.

SKELLIG MICHAEL (Great Skellig Rock)

The Skellig Islands are 12 km (8 miles) off the coast. However, they can be accessed by boat from Portmagee in South West Kerry. Skellig Michael rises from the sea, reaching a height of 218 metres above sea level. On the summit of Skellig Michael there is a well-preserved 6th century monastic settlement. Skellig Michael gets its name from Saint Michael the Archangel.

How much are the Skellig Michael Tours?

SKELLIG MICHAEL ECO TOUR Adults: €45 Students / Seniors: €42 Children: €37  Family: €150 (2 adults + 2 children) Each additional child:  €30 (Plus booking fee)

SKELLIG LANDING TOUR € 125 plus booking fee per person

What options are there to see the wildlife on Skellig Michael and Little Skelligs?

The Skellig Michael Boat Tour around the Skellig Islands (Skellig Michael and Little Skelligs Nature Reserve) has multiple departure times throughout the day. The boat tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes and circles both islands getting right up close to Skellig Michael and the Little Skelligs to see both the wildlife and the historical sites.  This tour can get quite busy especially in the peak season so it is advisable to book well in advance.  The season runs from April to the end of September. The tour departs from the marina in Portmagee, Co. Kerry .

ST FIONAN OF SKELLIG MICHAEL

On our Skellig Michael Tours you will see the 6th century monastic settlement on the north peak of the island. Great Skellig was home to the monks of St Fionan. These monks led very simple lives out in the wild Atlantic, living in stone beehive shaped huts. The huts are round-shaped on the outside. In contrast, they are rectangular on the inside. In fact, they were carefully built to prevent a single drop of rain from coming in. The monks spent their days praying in the church, while dedicating some of their time for studying and tending to their gardens. In general, it is thought that the rock was the permanent home to about 12 monks. In the 13th century the climate started to change and life became very harsh out in the Atlantic. For this reason, the monks left the Skelligs and moved to the mainland in Ballinskelligs. Subsequently, the Great Skellig became a place of pilgrimage.

KERRY CLIFFS AND PUFFIN ISLAND

On the Skellig Michael Tours and the Audio Visual Boat Tour you will see the Kerry Cliffs and Puffin Island. Kerry Cliffs were formed more than 400 million years ago. The cliffs are located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. For the most part, they reach 300m in height. For this reason, they are a spectacular sight to look up at from the boat at sea level. Puffin Island is a designated a nature reserve under the conservancy of BirdWatch Ireland. It is separated from the mainland by a narrow sound. Hence, it is isolated from the mainland. As a result, it is home to thousands of pairs of birds such as Puffins, Manx Shearwaters, Storm Petrels and other breeding seabirds.

Where do the Skellig Michael Tours depart from?

All our tours depart from the marina in Portmagee, County Kerry. – Ask for BRENDAN CASEY. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour is due to depart.

How do I change or cancel my Skellig Tour booking?

Login to our customer area to update or cancel your booking. Enter the same email address you used when you made your booking.

It is advisable to stay as near as possible to Portmagee.

You should stay locally the night before the tour because the sea conditions vary a lot and we are often not sure if the tour will go ahead until right before it is due to depart.

AUDIO VISUAL INTERACTIVE BOAT TOUR

The  interactive boat tour  is an Audio Visual experience and is both educational and fun. As an alternative to our Skellig Michael Tours, the boat stays within relatively calm waters. The boat moves from the departure point at Portmagee marina to explore the harbour and the small coastal islands. To begin with, you will learn the history of Skellig Michael and the birdlife living in the area. At the same time, you will experience the joy of wildlife and nature.  Find out about the movies that were filmed in the area including Star Wars and Harry Potter. In summary, the tour is a fun adventure and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The tour takes about 1 hour.

The Audio Visual Tour is not running for the 2023 season .

Murphys Sea Cruises To Skellig Michael

Contact: e: [email protected] t: +353 876762983

Explore the wonderful Skellig Michael with Pat Joe Murphy Operating boat tours to Skellig for over 30 years! LANDING TOURS & ECO (around the islands) TRIPS availabe - Book in advance to secure your spot as tours are limited to 12 passengers per day!  

Skellig Michael Tours

The Skellig Islands, Skellig Michael and Small Skellig, stand aloof in the Atlantic Ocean some 13km southwest of Portmagee & Valentia Island, County Kerry. From any angle, or from any vantage point on the nearby Ring of Kerry, they are spectacular pinnacles, which have magnetised viewers for gene rations. 

MURPHYS SEA CRUISES

M urphys offer boat tours to Skellig Michael daily from Portmagee durin g the summer months. There are many imitators but only a few are the original boatmen to the islands. Patrick Murphy is the Skipper of the wonderful "Shelluna". Patrick was born & raised in the beautiful village of Portmagee and lives in the village. With over 30 years of captaining boats on the atlantic, you know you are in safe hands.

Murphys Sea Cruises was established in the 1980's, at the time there were only a few boatmen "licensed" to go to the Great Skellig. Patrick & crew have brought thousands of people to and from the islands and promises them a trip of a life time .

Now taking reservations  for 2023 - book in advance to secure your spot!

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

"A lovely boat trip going around the smaller Skellig to view the birds on the way to Skellig Michael. The boat drivers were really helpful, friendly and informative with a lovely enthusiasm about nature, we were fortunate to see jumping dolphins and a baby seal. A reall fantgastic experience."

"There are a dozen purveyors of trips to the Skelligs, but you'll feel confident about your boating safety if you choose Pat Joe Murphy, Captain of the beautiful Shelluna. Pat Joe has a yellow cottage office down the road and across the street from the Portmagee docks (picture included), but everyone in the area knows him to call for you to arrange your passage. On the trip back, Pat Joe stopped alongside LIttle Skellig, a bird and sea lion colony, so that we could take photos of the tremendous wildlife. The smooth ride, both there and back, was in large part enjoyed because of Pat Joe's skill at the helm. I would recommend this adventure for preteens and older. I had quite a memorable day!"

"Very enjoyable experience. We set off on time and the journey was very comfortable. It was a beautiful day and the crossing wasn't difficult. Skellig Michael was amazing. Murphy Cruises were professional and I have no problem recommending them for the trip."

ABOUT THE SKELLIGS

The Skelligs are world famous, each in its own right. Skellig Michael is known throughout the world of archaeology as the site of a well preserved monastic outpost of the early Christian period, now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Small Skellig is equally renowned in matters of ornithology as the home of some 27,000 pairs of gannets, the second largest colony of such sea birds in the world.   

The monastic site on Skellig Micheal is reached by climbing over five hundred steps on up a 1000 year old stone stairway. Stone beehive huts where monks lived and prayed centuries ago cling to cliff edges alongside oratories, a cemetery, stone crosses, holy wells and the Church of St Michael. These isolated archaeological remains show the dramatically spartan conditions in which this early Christian community lived. Enduring several Viking raids, the monks eventually left the island in the thirteenth century and it subsequently became a place of pilgrimage.  A boat trip to The Skelligs allows one to experience these magnificent natural monuments first hand, book with Murphys today and experience the trip of a lifetime tomorrow.

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If you wish to book directly with us please select our vessel “Celtic Victor” on the booking page.

There are some details about this trip that should be observed before you make a decision to visit – these are outlined below

• Landing on Skellig Michael and undertaking the climb to the monastery requires a reasonable level of fitness and mobility. The sea trip can also be challenging at times and this should also be considered before making a booking enquiry. All intending travellers should be physically fit for this trip.
• Children under 12 are not accommodated on this trip
• Wet gear will be provided but we recommend you bring you own also as you can never have enough when out on the ocean – sensible footgear is also required.

Throughout the tour we will depart to you our knowledge of the history of Skellig Michael and surrounding area. At the Small Skelligs you will witness first-hand the wonder of over 50,000 Gannets (the 2nd largest colony in the world) and the resident colony of seal. Dolphins and Whales can also be seen occasionally on the trip to and from Skellig.

Our landing trips depart from Portmagee Marina at 8.30am each morning weather permitting and return at approximately 2pm.

The itinerary of the trip is as follows:

• Arrive at Portmagee marina, Co. Kerry at 8.30am (the exact time will be confirmed by email 2 days before the trip).
• On arrival ask for the Celtic Victor (this is the name of our vessel)
• Depart 9.00am
• Arrive at Skellig Michael at approx. 10.00am
• Depart Skellig Michael at approx. 12.30pm
• Return to Portmagee 1.45pm

Note: All bookings should confirm 2 days before the sailing date to get an update on weather conditions and departure times.

Cost: The Skellig landing trip costs €125 per person + booking fee (€8.75 per person).

Our Eco trips depart from Portmagee Marina at approximately 2.30pm and return at approximately 5.00pm.

• Arrive at Portmagee marina at 2.15pm
• On arrival at the marina ask for the Celtic Victor (this is our vessel)
• Depart 2.30pm
• Arrive at Skellig Islands at approx. 3.30pm
• Depart Skellig Islands at approx. 4.15pm
• Return to Portmagee 5.00pm

Cost: The Skellig eco trip costs €50 per person.

Find Us…

Skellig Michael

Dan & Donal McCrohan, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co Kerry, Ireland Tel: 087 290 6168 Email: [email protected]

Explore The Best Of The West With Skellig Michael Tours

Visit one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites from the comfort of a well-equipped passenger boat and take back home a treasure trove of memories of an unforgettable trip.

A Confluence Of Natural & Cultural Heritage

Experience a different world altogether, far away from the mainland, encompassing natural rock formations, monastery, hermitage, and lighthouses, of historic and cultural relevance.

Enjoy A Leisurely Sail Around Skellig Islands Onboard The Skellig Star

Let our Skellig Michael boat trips offer you a spectacular view of the mesmerizing islands, rich in biodiversity and home to sites of cultural importance.

Skellig Michael Tours

About Skellig Island

The twin crags of Skellig Michael Islands appears in the horizon, shortly after the Skellig Michael Boat Trips start off from Portmagee Village.

The natural formation of the islands could date back to at least 300 million years ago in the prehistoric period. The islands can be divided into two portions— The Great Skellig Michael & Little Skellig.

The Skellig Michael landing tour is not permitted on the Little Skellig island, while the Great Skellig Michael, with its easily noticeable twin peaks, is among Europe’s most ancient and sacred places. It used to be home to a group of Gaelic monks in the 6th century. The monks had built the Skellig Monastery to mark as the finishing line of an ancient pilgrimage going through France, Italy, Greece and Palestine — The St. Michael Axis. The monastic settlement is also highly regarded for its architectural genius, exemplified by the beehive huts and the 3 steps and pathways, with over 600 stairs leading up to the monastery— all still in brilliant condition to this day.

Apart from the historical importance of the site, the island also has a rich biodiversity and is home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Northern Gannets. Other fauna includes seabird species like puffins and razorbills and marine animals including a thriving population of grey seals. Earlier known as just Skellig, which in Gaelic means “splinter of stone” the site, especially the twin crags was later named after the Archangel Michael, as a dedication. It got the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It was recently the filming location for the movie Star Wars: The Force Awakens in 2015.

Why Choose Skellig Michael Tours

• Gives You A Memorable Experience With An Up & Close View Of The Islands From The Comfort Of Spacious And Cozy Passenger Boats
• Offers Two Different Options Of Skellig Islands Boat Trips & Skellig Michael Eco Tours
• Wheelchair Accessible Boats Allow Tourists Of Different Physical Conditions To Gain Access
• Takes You On A Fully Insured And Licenced Passenger Vessel
• Competitively Priced For A Wider Range Of Tourists

The Most Important Sites Include

• The Skellig Michael Monastery
• The Stairs & Pathways leading up to the Monastery’s main complex
• The Christ’s Saddle Valley between the two mountains
• The Tower House, or Wailing Woman — a megalithic rock formation, from where you get breathtaking sites of the Little Skellig in the distance

About Skellig Star (The Boat)

Skellig Star is an accommodating boat of ours. It is definitely a true charmer! Built to take you around the Skellig Islands, it’s a 40ft Lochin running on twin engines, promising a smooth and safe sail, all the way to the Skellig Michael and Little Skellig islands. Its specialty lies in accessibility, presenting you breathtaking sights you wouldn’t have had access to by land. Rest assured by taking the Skellig Michael landing tour the Skellig Star is well capable of bringing you as close as possible to the island and landing you safely.

Our Skellig Star is well-equipped with life jackets and waterproof gear for our passengers. While safety is mandatory for every passenger as we value lives more than anything, the latter is optional and intended to keep you dry even during the heaviest downpour. Accommodating a maximum of 12 passengers at once, our boat is spacious, with cabin seating offering marvelous views of the Skellig Islands. Purposely designed with the seating arrangement inside the cabin, it ensures shelter from harsh weather conditions without compromising on passenger comfort.

Among its other state of the art facilities, there’s a toilet on-board. All in all, it’s a true star, completely insured and licensed, encompassing advanced facilities so that you enjoy a leisurely Skellig Michael boat trip.

Bookings Are Now Open For  2024 Skellig Michael Tours

Book Your Skellig Michael Tour Early In Advance. You Can Book Online, Or Give Us A Call at 00353 87 617 8114 for guidance.

Skellig Michael Eco Tour Departure Timings:

10:00 am, 12:30 pm, 3.00pm, 5:30pm

From where does Skellig Michael Tours depart?

Portmagee situated in County Kerry is the exact location from where our boats depart. For further information, kindly refer to our Contact Us page.

Is it necessary for an enthusiastic passenger to book in advance for Skellig tours?

We don’t want to disappoint you. Therefore, our advice would be to book in advance to avoid the rush during the peak season.

Can I cancel my bookings during adverse weather/sea conditions?

Skellig Island tours are entirely weather-dependent. We will cancel the tour if the sea conditions are not suitable to travel and refund your money. To get a better insight, kindly refer to our Cancellation Policy.

How can I identify the Skellig Star?

Please make a call to our booking office once you reach the vicinity. One of our staff members will assist you to Skellig Star.

How would advise on clothing & shoes for a boat ride to the Skellig Islands?

Our advice to you would be to put on warm comfortable clothes. We have waterproof gears ready on-board.

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Skellig Coast Adventures

Providing skellig michael tours by boat. explore the beautiful skellig islands with us, skellig michael tours.

Skellig Michael Landing Tour

Skellig Michael Eco Tour

Our vessels.

Here at Skellig Coast Adventures, we are an amalgamation of 4 boat tour operators. We have over 50 years of experience providing boat tours of Skellig Michael. We aim to provide a quality service to all our customers. Our fleet is made up of 4 vessels – The Skellig Walker , Celtic Victor , Ursula Mary and The Deva .

Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael dates all the way back to the 6th century. It is a world renowned early Christian monastic, UNESCO world heritage site. Both Skellig Michael and its twin little Skellig are only accessible by boat. Recently, it made an appearance in the Star Wars Franchise where it was home to Luke Skywalker.

You can experience the Skelligs along with the Kerry Cliffs and Valentia Harbour on one of our Skellig Michael boat tours. You will be immersed in the fascinating history and stories of the Skellig Coast and see an abundance of wildlife creatures that call this place home.

Stay - Savour - Seek

Accommodation

Check out our Kerry accommodation partners

• +353 (0)87 901 7338
• Portmagee Marina, Portmagee, Co. Kerry
• @skelligcoastadventures
• Skellig Landing
• Skellig Coast Eco
• Celtic Victor
• Skellig Walker
• Ursula Mary

skellig coast

How To Visit Skellig Michael In 2024 (A Guide To The Skellig Islands)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: February 1, 2024

The Skellig Michael tours are some of Ireland’s most sought-after. They’re also some of the most misunderstood .

There are two types of Skellig Islands tours:

• Landing tours : You physically explore Skellig Michael Island
• Eco tours : You sail around the two Skellig Islands but don’t leave the boat

In the guide below, you’ll find info on the different tours of the Skellig Islands, their history and, of course, the Star Wars link . Enjoy!

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows if you want to visit Skellig Michael

Click to enlarge map

So, if you want to visit Skellig Michael Island, there are several  need-to-knows before you start planning your trip.

1. Location

The ancient Skellig Islands jut from the Atlantic Ocean around 13km from Ballinskelligs Bay off the tip of the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry .

2. There are 2 islands

There are two Skellig Islands. The smaller of the two, known as Little Skellig , is closed to the public and cannot be accessed. Skellig Michael (AKA ‘Great Skellig) is over 750 feet tall and is home to a number of historic sites.

3. There are 2 tour types

If you’re wondering how to get to Skellig Michael, you have 2 options – the Skellig Michael landing tour (you physically go onto the island) and the eco tour (you sail around the islands). The majority of Skellig Michael tours leave from Portmagee pier, although one leaves from Derrynane Harbour and another leaves from Valentia Island .

4. Star Wars fame

Yes, Skellig Michael is the Star Wars Island in Ireland. It featured Star Wars Episode VII “The Force Awakens” in 2014 . If you’ve watched the movie, you’ll see Skellig Michael at the end of the movie when Luke Skywalker gets reintroduced to viewers.

5. Warnings

• Book tickets well in advance:  They book out frequently
• Good fitness levels needed:  You’ll need to climb a bit on the landing tour
• Tours don’t run all year: The ‘season’ runs from from April until the beginning of October

6. Where to stay nearby

The best place to base yourself when visiting Skellig Michael, in my opinion, is Portmagee , however, Valentia Island and Waterville are two other great options.

About the Skellig Islands

Photos via Shutterstock

You’ll find Skellig Michael Island and Little Skellig jutting from the Atlantic around 1.5km from Ballinskelligs Bay off the tip of the Iveragh Peninsula.

And it’s from here that the Skellig Islands have been delighting those that have dared to visit long before George Lucas and Hollywood came knocking.

How they were formed

It was during the Armorican/Hercynian Earth Movements that Skellig Michael first peeked above the Atlantic Ocean.

These movements led to the formation of the mountains of County Kerry, which Skellig Michael is connected to.

The mass of rock from which the island was formed dates back over 400 million years and consists of compressed sheets of sandstone mixed with silt and gravel.

Mentioned as far back as 1400 BC

Of the two islands, Skellig Michael boasts the most Religious and historical significance.

The island was first referenced in history in   1400 BC and was called ‘home’ by a group of monks for the first time during the 8th century.

In pursuit of a greater union with God, a group of ascetic monks withdrew from civilisation to the remote island to begin a life of solitude.

A UNESCO World Heritage site

The remote and isolated islands have an almost prehistoric feel about them and the Skelligs are widely regarded as one of Europe’s most perplexing and remote sacred sites.

In 1996, UNESCO gave recognition to Skellig Michael and its “outstanding universal value” , placing it upon the World Heritage List , where it sits proudly next to the likes of the Giants Causeway and Yellowstone National Park.

“An incredible, impossible, mad place”

Once upon a time, over 20 years before Star Wars creator George Lucas was born, a Nobel Prize and Oscar-winning Irish playwright discovered the wonders of the Skellig Islands.

On September 17th, 1910, George Bernard Shaw left the Kerry coast in an open boat and sailed across the choppy waters that lay between the islands and the mainland.

In a letter penned to a friend, Shaw described the island as  “An incredible, impossible, mad place”  that is  “part of our dream world” . If that doesn’t make you want to visit, nothing will.

How to get to Skellig Michael in 2024

We get emails asking how to get to Skellig Michael constantly . They tend to start mid-summer. But by that time many tours are booked up.

So, there are several different Skellig Michael boat tours on offer. Now, as mentioned above, just 180 people can access the island each day .

So, getting a ticket on one of the boat trips that land on the island can be tricky. Here’s an overview of each of the tours:

1. The Eco Tour around the islands

The first of the two Skellig Michael tours is the Eco Tour. This is the tour that takes you around the islands, but that doesn’t ‘land’ on Skellig Michael.

These Skellig Island tours tend to involve visiting Little Skellig first and seeing some of the wildlife (ganets and seals to name a fiew) before sailing around Skellig Michael.

2. The Skellig Michael Landing Tour

The Skellig Michael Landing Tour involves taking a ferry to the larger of the islands and heading for a wander around it.

The landing tours is more expensive (info below) but it’ll treat you to one of the most unique experiences in Ireland.

Skellig Michael tours compared

Good God. It’s taken me over an hour to collect the info below about the various Skellig Michael tours. Why?!

Well, because some of the websites are an absolute mess and a half!

WARNING : The prices and times listed below may change so  please  double check them in advance!

1. Skellig Michael Cruises

• Run by: Paul Devane & Skellig Michael Cruises
• Location : Portmagee
• Eco tour : Lasts 2.5 hours. €50
• Landing tour : You get 2.5 hours when you visit Skellig Michael. €140
• Learn more here

2. Skellig Boat tours

• Run by: Dan and Donal McCrohan
• Eco tour : It lasts 2.5 hours and it costs €50 per person
• Landing tour : Costs €125 per person

3. Kerry Aqua Terra Boat & Adventure Tours

• Run by: Brendan and Elizabeth
• Location : Knightstown (Valentia)
• Skellig Coast Tour : Takes you around the most scenic sites in the area including the islands and the Kerry Cliffs. 3 hours. €75 p/p.

4. Sea Quest Skellig Tours

• Eco tour : It lasts just under 2.5 hours and it costs €50 for adults with lower priced tickets for kids
• Landing tour : €130 and you get 2.5 hours on the island

5. Casey’s Skellig Island Tours

• Eco tour : €45
• Landing tour : €125  

6. Skellig Walker

• Eco tour : €50 per person
• Landing tour : Tickets cost €125 per person 

Things to see and do on Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael was first referenced in history in   1400BC and was called ‘home’ by a group of monks for the first time during the 8th century.

It’s thanks to these monks that the island is home to a number of historical sites (the views are also out of this world).

1. Enjoy the journey over

If you do get a chance to visit Skellig Michael, your adventure begins from the moment you step on the ferry.

The journey across takes an hour from Portmagee (above) and you’ll be able to start soaking up views soon after your departure.

Now, if you’ve ever taken a ferry anywhere in Ireland, you’ll know that the water can be very choppy at times, so keep that in mind.

I’d recommend decent footwear, also. Aside from the fact that you’ll be doing a lot of walking on the island, the area where you step off the ferry can be slippy.

This isn’t helped by the fact that the boat will be rocking. So, decent footwear and a sturdy belly (keep away from the pints the night before!) are both needed. 

2. The Stairway to Heaven

Cast your mind back to a time when monks lived on Skellig Michael (AKA ‘Great Skellig’). They needed to eat, and the water was their main source of food.

The monks needed to conquer a grueling 600+ steps each day as they made their way from the summit, where they lived, to the icy waters below, where they caught fish.

Those that visit the island will need to climb these 600+ steps to reach the top of the island. This will be a challenge for those with poor mobility.

3. Views galore

If you visit Skellig Michael on a clear day, you’ll be treated to outstanding views of Little Skellig and the Kerry coastline. 

And after climbing the 600+ steps to the top, you’ll have earned a bit of kick-back-and-take-it-all-in-time.

When you arrive here, try and switch off, put the phone/camera away and bask in the brilliance that surrounds you. 

4. The beehive huts

Life in the middle of the Atlantic was by no means easy, so the monks got to work and built several structures to make the island suitable to live on.

Over time, they managed to construct a Christian monastery, six beehive huts, two oratories and some terraces.

The cluster of six beehive huts that housed the island’s inhabitants were constructed with slate and stand proud to this day – an immense feat considering the intense storms they’ve been subjected to over many years.

5. The Skellig Michael monastery

Although the Skellig Michael monastery is a ruin, much of the inner and outer enclosure is still visible. The monastery is situated on the east side of the island, as this location gets some good shelter.

The monks built three different staircases that would allow them to access the area, depending on the weather. Only the steps I mentioned earlier are accessible to the public today, for safety reasons.

You’ll be able to see one of the staircases from the monastery. This was one of the paths that was shown in Star Wars: Force Awakes.

FAQs about visiting Skellig Michael

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from whether or not the Skellig boat trips are worth the price they charge and where to stay nearby.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Is Skellig Michael worth it?

Yes. It’s worth the hassle of planning your trip and dealing with the potential cancellation if the weather is bad. This is one of those experiences you’ll remember forever.

Are there many Skellig Islands boat trips to choose from?

There are a lot of different tour operators, each of which tends to offer both an Eco Tour (where you sail around the islands) and a landing tour (where you visit Skellig Michael).

Was Star Wars filmed on Skellig Michael?

Yes. The Skelligs featured in Star Wars film Episode VII “The Force Awakens” in 2014. If you’ve watched the movie, you’ll see Skellig Michael at the end of the movie when Luke Skywalker gets reintroduced to viewers.

Is Skellig Michael open in 2024?

Yes, tours are running to the Skellig Islands in 2024. The ‘season’ runs from from April until the beginning of October.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Tuesday 25th of April 2023

Very useful info for planning our trip. Thanks for taking the time.

Sunday 16th of April 2023

Thank you for this post. Because of it, I was able to find a tour that actually had space on their boat!

Pat Mulcahy

Thursday 16th of February 2023

Very useful information Keith thanks

Tuesday 21st of June 2022

Very useful info. A great website source. Well done

Monday 21st of March 2022

As the world's foremost Star Wars scholar, I feel I must point out that The Force Awakens premiered on December 17, 2015, not 2014. :)

SkelligWalker | Luxury Cruises

Skelligwalker cruises.

Luxury Skellig Islands and Skellig Coast Cruises

Now part of Skellig Coast Adventures

"I can't imagine doing Skellig Michael in any other boat!"

-- taylor c. tripadvisor review 22nd june 2017.

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Welcome to SkelligWalker Cruises

'An incredible, impossible, mad place, which still tempts devotees to make "stations" of every stair landing, and to creep through "needle's eyes" at impossible altitudes, and kiss "stones of pain" jutting out 700 feet above the Atlantic.... it is part of our dream world.’

-- George Bernard Shaw

A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Skellig Michael with SkelligWalker Cruises is an experience that will live with you forever. A trip aboard the purpose built SkelligWalker offers safe and comfortable access to the Island, where visitors then undertake a pilgrimage to climb almost 700 steps to the early monastic settlement that offers tranquility and an opportunity to connect with the beauty and wildlife of the Skellig Coast on the Wild Atlantic Way .

We also offer a daily eco tour that circles both Islands, Skellig Michael and the Small Skelligs . This trip allows visitors to experience the unique history and wildlife of the area including the 23,000 pairs of gannets that nest on the Small Skelligs (the second largest colony in the world).

We look forward to welcoming you aboard SkelligWalker.

The Skelligs

The monastery, its history, setting and the natural heritage

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Explore the Skellig Coast, Dingle Harbour, Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve or design your own adventure

Skellig Coast Adventures

Our tour company offering the largest number of skellig michael landing places, valentia island.

Experience the beautiful Valentia Island - Ireland's Hidden Treasure

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Tour Company

Offering the largest number of Skellig Michael landing places

"Excellent service from Skellig Walker from initial enquiry to follow up after the trip. Fast, comfortable boat with informative on board team."

-- caitriona f. tripadvisor review 4th october 2017, get in touch.

You can book your trip --- HERE --- or use the details below to get in touch with us!

• SkelligWalker Cruises, Ballymanagh Lower , Valentia Island , Co. Kerry , Ireland , V23 XA47
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WELCOME TO SKELLIGS ROCK CRUISES

Experience the best that the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer and join us on a boat tour to the Skellig Islands. A World Heritage site, and so listed with Mount Everest and the Great Barrier Reef for its significance to humankind, you’ll be glad you made the trip.

The Skellig Islands float on the Atlantic Ocean, twelve kilometres off the coast of county Kerry. When you first reach the Islands you will be struck by their rugged beauty – as they scale some 700ft above you. An internationally renowned bird sanctuary, you’ll encounter a wonderful array of birdlife as you climb the six hundred steps to the peak. Here you’ll find one of the oldest and best-preserved monasteries in Europe. At the summit allow your imagination to take you back to the time of the Monks or to transport you to a ‘Galaxy far far away’.

The makers of Star Wars were so taken by the Skellig Michael that they used it as a location for 2 Star War movies The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. Find out more about how the Skelligs were used in the Star Wars movies here .

How can you describe the Skellig Michael to someone who has never visited this place of peace, serenity and absolute beauty, yet with ruggedness all around you? No one has ever painted a picture of the Skellig Michael with words, better than the famous Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw when he wrote to Frederick Jackson:

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Landing Tours Begin on May 11th 2024

Non-Landing Tours Operate from March 18th 2024

Booking for the 2024 season is now open.

Skellig Michael Boat Tours are popular especially in the peak season so booking is advance is advisable.

Skellig Michael non-landing eco tour Around The Skellig Islands

This tour operates form March 18th 2024 to 1st November 2024 and departs daily at 10am, 12:30pm, 3pm and 5:15pm. It takes approximately 2.5 hours in total. This tour takes you up close to Skellig Michael, you see all the island has to offer, wild life( puffins, gannets etc), light house, the monastery, old path taken by the monks etc… but you do not get off the boat.

We depart from Portmagee Marina. Eircode V23 TN30

Please ensure that the phone number and email address provided is correct so we can contact you if departure times change or if tour needs to be cancelled.

About the Non-landing tour

It takes approximately 1 hour to get to Skellig Micahel

The boat circles the small Skelligs and Skellig Michael itself for approximately 40minutes – you get up close to the island to see historical sites before returning to Portmagee.

Tour tour is suited for all ages and abilities.

We have a toilet on the boat.

Cost of Non-landing Tour: Adult €50, Student €45, child €40, family (2adults & 2 children) €170

What time do I arrive for the tour?

You need to arrive at Portmagee Marina 15minutes ahead of your tour to check in.

Skellig Michael Landing Tour – Available from May 11th – September 30th 2024

Landing Boat Operator Dermot Walsh.

This tour departs daily between 8:30am and 9:30am. It takes approximately 1 hour to get to Skellig Michael, you are allowed off the boat and onto Skellig Michael for approximately 2.5 hours before returning to Portmagee.

We recommend that children are at least 12 years old to do this tour.

About the landing Tour

This tour is approx. 5 hours in total. We depart daily from Portmagee Marina between 8:30am and 9:30am. When you arrive at Skellig Michael you can get off the boat onto the island. There are approx. 618steps to climb to the Monastery. You are allowed 2.5hours to explore the island. There are guides on the island to give you the full history.

This is a very popular tour and is usually booked well in advance.

Cost of Landing Tour: €140 per person

Departure times can change due to weather conditions as we are in contact with the guides on Skellig Michael while we monitor the landing conditions at Skellig Michael. Times can be delayed up to 12:30/13:00 depending on sea conditions.

Please be aware of this when booking and planning activities for later in the day.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time to check in

What to bring:

Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking

Warm clothes and rain gear

A packed lunch, Water

About The Skellig Islands

Skellig Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage site . It is one of the only two in the republic of Ireland.

On the summit of this magnificent island off the South Kerry coast is St Fionan’s monastery. It is one of the earliest foundations in the country.

The monks lived there in the 6 th century. They prayed and slept in beehive-shaped huts made of stone, many of which can be seen on the island today.

The monks left the island in the thirteenth century. It became a place of pilgrimage and, during the time of the Penal Laws, a haven for Catholics.

There are 618 steep steps to the Monastery at the top of Skellig Michael. This is a challenge but well worth the effort.

There are guides on the Island who will give the full history of Skellig Michael.

There are many types of birds on and around the island with the most popular being the Puffin. Skellig rock puffins come here to breed at the beginning of April and leave by the beginning of August, back towards the east coast of Canada (across the pond) and the mid-Atlantic ridge where they forage for the winter months on shoals of Capelin. The Skelligs have one of the largest Puffin populations which is of international importance.

Little Skellig is the second-largest gannet colony in the world. The rock looks white as it is occupied with so many gannets.

There is limited availability for the landing tours to Skellig Michael which are very popular so booking well in advance is advisable.

We also operate the non-landing eco tour around Skellig Michael where you get up close to the island but you do not get off the boat. This is also a popular tour for families and people who are unable to do the climb.

When do the tours operate?

We operate the non-landing tours from March 18th until 1st November.

We operate the landing tours from May 11 th – September 30 th

Where do the tours depart from? All our tours depart from the Portmagee Marina, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Do I need to book in advance? It is advisable to book well in advance to reserve your preferred departure date and time.

Weather Conditions and Cancellations All our tours are weather dependent. If we need to cancel you will be given the option of rescheduling your tour for another time or a full refund.

Can I reschedule my Tour if it is cancelled due to adverse sea/weather conditions? Yes, if your Tour is cancelled we will try our best to get you on the next available Tour when the weather/sea conditions improve.  The landing tours are usually booked well in advance so therefore are difficult to reschedule.

How do I book the tours? We take all our bookings online via our website using a safe well known payment processing service – if you have any difficulty please email [email protected]

Do you take group bookings? Yes  we can accomodate large groups for the non-landing tours.

Get in touch

Portmagee Marina,

Eircode: V23 XD93

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +353 (0)87 901 0994

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Skellig Michael

Landing tour.

Land on Skellig Michael, explore the monastic ruins and experience other-worldly vistas. See the spot where Luke Skywalker stood, and feel the power of this incredible place.

ECO CRUISE TOUR

Enjoy a two and a half hour cruise around the Skellig Islands, taking in the amazing Skellig Coast, local bird and sealife including dolphins and whales.

What are the safety precautions? How long are the tours? What times do the tours depart, Where do the boats depart from? All your questions are answered here.

to Skellig Michael, Irelands UNESCO World Heritage site

Skellig Michael is an island 12 km off the South West coast of Ireland. It houses the incredibly well-preserved remains of an early Christian monastery and that was founded in the 6th century and a place of monastic retreat until the 12th century.

Due to its universal cultural value, Skellig Michael was awarded World Heritage Site status in 1996, one of only two sites in the Republic of Ireland. Most recently, it has achieved worldwide fame thanks to its appearance as the planet Ahch-To, in both Star Wars : The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi .

Skellig Michael Boat Trips, Portmagee, County Kerry, Ireland Email: [email protected]   •  Tel: +353 66 947 7108

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Skellig Michael Boat Trips, Portmagee, County Kerry, Ireland Email: [email protected] Tel: +353 66 947 7108

© Skellig Michael Boat Trips • All Rights Reserved • Privacy Policy • Make a Payment Site by Bright Idea

Skellig Michael Boat Trips, Portmagee, County Kerry, Ireland E: [email protected] T: +353 66 947 7108

© Skellig Michael Boat Trips All Rights Reserved Privacy Policy • Make a Payment

Privacy Overview

Skellig Michael Boat Tours and Skellig Islands Cruises depart from the beautiful fishing village of Portmagee.

About Skellig Michael  Boat Tours & The Skellig Islands.

Skellig Michael tours are where you land at Skellig Michael, get off the boat and climb to the top, the Skellig Islands Eco Tours  go around both islands.

Trips to the Skellig Islands can be called many things ie. ferry to Skellig Michael, skellig Michael tours, Skellig Michael trips, boat to Skellig Michael, Skellig Island tours, Skellig Michael landing tours, Landing tours etc etc.

The list is endless and not that important, but getting out to the Skelligs / Skellig Michael, and must be on the bucket list of many people.

People choose to visit the Skelligs for many different reasons – Star Wars fans, religeous reasons, the birdlife.

So if it is your intention to take a Skellig Michael tour or take in a Skellig Islands eco cruise, then plan ahead, book early which is especially reccomended for landing on Skellig Michael, and look forward to an experience that is out of this world.

Skellig Michael cruises offer two different options to see these awe inspiring and magnificent islands, details are listed below.

Booking for Skellig Michael boat tours (landing) is limited and in high demand so booking well in advance of your visit is well advised – although you may get lucky with an on the day cancellation.

Booking for the Skellig Islands Eco tours is simpler as we have more boats available and every departure time.

with our Skellig boats fleet we  have 60 seats available (x 8 departure times), the boats get close and personal with the Beehive huts and the Monastery, you will still see them and many more things than you will see from a Skellig Michael tour.

This makes the Skellig Islands Eco tour a worthwhile alternative to the Skellig Michael tours, especially for the infirm, people who dont like heights etc.

Skellig Islands Eco Tours

Our Skellig Islands Eco Tours depart daily from Portmagee marina .

Departure times are 9:30 – 10:00 – 12:00 – 1:00 – 2:30 – 3:30 – 4:30 – (5:30pm by request).

You get up close to Small Skellig where you will see the second largest Gannett colony in the world, the light house at the back of Skellig Michael, hidden coves, the old steps the monks carved into the rock, the pufins and other birdlife on the island (puffins April till mid july) and more.

You might even see some dolphins and whales on your journey.

This trip is 2.5 hours in duration and is suitable for all ages and abilities.

The Skellig Islands Eco tour season runs from March 15 th to November 10 th .

All trips are weather permitting..

Skellig Michael  Boat Tours

Skellig Michael  Boat Tours   departs daily from Portmagee marina between 8:30 and 9:30 this is due to we are now allocated landing time slots at Skellig Michael.

It takes approximately 1 hour to reach Skellig Michael .

You are allowed 2.5 hours on the island to climb the 600 steps to the top and explore the island.

On the island there is a tour guide to tell you all there is to know about the island, especially the history of Skellig Michael .

The tour guides also provide lots of information on the birds   and wildlife that lives / visits there.

They will be happy to answer any questions you might have..

You will arrive back in Portmagee at approximately 2pm.

Skellig Michael  Boat Tours run from the 15th of May to October 2nd.

We have 5 boats in operation taking passengers on an eco tour daily to Skellig Michael.

As you can see from the picture our boat has an outside canopy for shelter from wind,rain etc… and provides extra comfort for passengers.

This canopy can be rolled up for a very fine summers day.

Some of our boats have a door at the back which allows easy access for passengers to walk on-board.

They are spacious with plenty of room to  take photos and view the wildlife and historical sites of Skellig Michael and the small skelligs .

All our boats are wheelchair accessible , have life jackets on board, a toilet , seating and shelter for all passengers on their journey to Skellig Michael and the Skellig Islands .

If you have any questions during your trip please feel free to ask one of our crew members.

Latest News

We have started operating tours around Skellig Michael. You can book your preferred time of departure here : https://www-1557q.bookeo.com/bookeo/b_skelligmichaelcruises_start.html?ctlsrc2=zaAhcC0M4JEyr0TK1uBj53X%2Bc7r47vR8YdGbX7HXvYY%3D&src=02r           Read Full Story here https://www.facebook.com/260491857303744/posts/3274902352529331/?d=n

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Sea Cruise around Skellig Islands

Our Skellig Michael Sea Cruise is the perfect way to enjoy the spectacular views of the famous Skellig Islands while remaining seated. The Skellig Michael Sea Cruise departs daily from April to October and is weather dependent. Your journey will begin at the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre where you can learn all about the UNESCO World Heritage Site before getting the amazing opportunity to view the islands up close on this tour around the mesmerizing rocks. The cruise is approximately 2.5 hours long and includes touring around Skellig Beag allowing you to view the second largest colony of gannets in the world before continuing the excursion to view the spectacular Skellig Michael and all it has to offer.

While on this tour you will have the chance to witness the beehive huts, the lighthouses and the steps these outstanding monks carved into the Skellig Rock in the 6th century. This island is something of sheer magnificence that you wouldn’t want to miss.

The fun doesn’t stop there! Once you arrive back at The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre you can enjoy a wholesome meal in our fully licensed restaurant or pick up some souvenirs in our Gift Shop.

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation Policy

Skellig Michael Landing Tour

The Skellig Michael Landing Tour offers you the chance to climb the 618 steps to the very top of Skellig Michael. Here, you can view the beehive huts and monastery that is situated at the top of the island. The boat trip to Skellig Michael takes approximately 1 hour in duration and you will then have approximately 2.5 hours to walk and explore Skellig Michael.

Our Skellig Michael landing tours depart daily during the summer months from The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, Valentia Island. Boats depart between 09:30 AM and 10:30 AM and don’t return until 2PM/3PM that afternoon. If you book a landing tour with us it incudes an entry ticket to our Visitor Centre. We have a restaurant area where you can order food and drinks for the boat trip.

Private Boat Tours

Looking for a unique experience? We now offer private boat tours on the beautiful Eagle III and will tailor the tour to suit your groups needs. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the crystal waters while watching the sun go down over Skellig. Take in the breathtaking views of Dingle Bay and witness the incredible sea life along the way. Or perhaps you would prefer a cruise around the harbor, exploring the Portmagee Channel and taking in the view at the Spectacular Kerry Cliffs and Puffin Island. We will ensure that each tour is designed to create an authentic memorable experience for all.

If you would like more information on our private boat tours please email us at [email protected] or call 0871810027.

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Welcome to Skellig Coast Cruises

Do you want to see the wonderful Skellig Islands? We offer you the Eco Tour around both “Small Skelligs and Skellig Michael”. We do not land on the rocks. Our tour takes 2.5 hours. We get you up close and personal to Skellig Michael from the safety of our Boat the “myramichelle”. Our tour is ideal for you if your on a budget, have a family,time restricted,older or afraid of heights our tour is the answer for you.

Latest from Skellig blog

Portmagee, welcome to one of Irelands most beautiful villages. It is right on Valentia harbour and protected to the south

Valentia Island is one of the most famous Island in Ireland. Located in one of the most westerly points in

Testimonials

“Perfect trip for family of five – 3 small children included! Our journey was perfect offering us amazing views! The islands, the birds, the captain sharing stories and experiences! Would love to do this again one day! Thanks for the great afternoon.”

“Absolutely great experience loved every minute of it , very professional and very friendly , well definitely b back”

“We had a great tour! Personal Pickup and information on board. All The Islands / of and cliffs have been hit. Thank you! Thanks a lot for the great experience!”

Skellig Ferries

Welcome . . .

We aim to provide you an unforgettable and fun trip where you experience the magic of Skellig Michael. A visit to Skellig Michael is a unique and captivating experience. See for yourself the outstanding natural beauty of this special place.

Your safety and comfort will be our number one priority and we will endeavour to provide you with memories that you will treasure forever.

The Skellig Islands float on the Atlantic Ocean, twelve kilometres off the coast of county Kerry. When you first reach the Islands you will be struck by their rugged beauty – as they scale some 700ft above you.

We are Fully Booked for 2021. Reservation for 2022 able to Book Now.

Take a trip to “Ahch-To” The Star War Island

The makers of Star Wars were so fascinated by the Skellig Michael, it is a location for 2 Star War movies; “The Force Awakens” and “The Last Jedi” .

We have two trips to the island every day, the Eco trip and the Landing trip. Click below to choose yours.

We are Fully Booked for 2021.

Reservation for 2022 able to book now..

Skellig Ferries Eco Trip

Trip around the Island, min 2 hours.

A Trip Around the Island

Watch our video of the tour of the Skellig Island

Our Gallery

View a few images of what it’s like on the Island and around it.

ABOUT US SKELLIGS ROCK CRUISES

Welcome to Skelligs Rock Cruises, where we will provide you with unforgettable experiences on your trip to the Skelligs. Since 1989, we’ve been weaving tales of adventure and awe as we navigate the stunning Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the less spoken of, yet equally fascinating Small Skelligs (Irish: Sceilig Bheag), home to the second-largest Gannet sanctuary in the world.

Our commitment goes beyond a boat trip; it’s about curating an experience. We don’t just ferry you to the Skelligs; we immerse you in the journey. From safety instructions to island insights, we ensure every moment is enriching. We’re not just guides; we’re storytellers, revealing the wonders of the Skelligs in a way that lingers long after the journey ends.

Quality Assurance: Your feedback shapes our evolution. We seek insights from our customers and draw inspiration from best practices in the tourism industry to continually enhance our offerings. We appreciate that we may not be able to please everyone on our trip, but we will try our best. If you have an issue during the trip, let us know, and we will do our utmost to help you and understand your concerns.

Unique Features: Beyond the rugged beauty of the Skelligs, our cruises showcase a thriving ecosystem – from seabirds to the iconic Skellig Puffin and the monumental Gannet Sanctuary on Small Skelligs.

Connecting with Us: While the sheer volume of travelers may limit direct connections, your journey with us is just a click away. Explore the Skelligs through our lens on social media and share your tales.

Customer Feedback: Your words matter. We appreciate and respond to every piece of feedback, ensuring your voice shapes our ongoing commitment to excellence.

Embark on a Traveler’s Odyssey with Us: Let us at Skelligs Rock Cruises carry you into the mystic that is Skellig Islands and the Atlantic Ocean, both so intertwined that you cannot separate them. The journey taken by each individual will be a new chapter in their travel and one that will last forever in your memory.

TOURS TO THE SKELLIGS

Information.

• Previous days
• Following days

Boat Trip To Land

• Terms and Conditions
• Cancellation Policy
• Only one tour to land on Skellig Michael takes place daily.
• Booking in advance is strongly advised as places for landing tours are limited.
• The cost of the tour to land is €130 per person for the 2024 season.
• There is €65 deposit for all landing cruises plus a 5% handling fee. The balance is a cash payment made on the boat.
• The departure time varies weekly due to a rota system, therefore it is your responsibility to ensure that you arrive at the correct time for sailing.
• We will inform you of your departure time closer to the date of your sailing.
• Please ensure your arrival to Portmagee Marina 30 minutes prior to your departure time.
• If for any reason departure times are required to change, you will be notified in advance.
• Unfortunately due to adverse weather and sea conditions tours are often cancelled. Your deposit will be refunded to you.
• The skippers decision in relation to weather is final.
• It may not be possible to reschedule you on the follow day’s tour.
• Given the limited spaces available for the tour to land, multiple bookings across various dates is not permitted.
• Receiving contact information (phone / email) etc during the booking phase are of paramount importance as this ensures you will be contactable should trip times change / are cancelled.
• Failure to make contact via phone call on the morning of your trip to confirm attendance may result in cancellation of your place.
• Please ensure you are familiar with the terms and conditions for the tour.
• The departure time varies weekly due to a rota system.
• It is your responsibility to ensure that you arrive at the correct time for sailing.
• Please arrive to Portmagee Marina 30 minutes prior to your departure time.
• Note late shows will not be accepted and refunds will not be provided.
• The boat trip to the Skellig Islands will take approx. 50 minutes.
• You will be allocated between 2 and 2.5 hrs to explore the island (weather dependent) after landing at the islands.
• The tour will also include a stop at Little Skellig, giving you the opportunity to take in the birdlife and marine life that inhabits it's perches.
• The entire trip will take between 4.5 and 5 hrs
• It is advisable to bring a packed lunch to eat during your time on the island.
• Footwear with good grip is essential on Skellig Michael.
• Please take in to consideration the advise from the boatmen in relaton to all aspects of your journey to the Skelligs
• Please be prepared for the day's weather conditions by dressing appropriately. Warn clothing / wet gear are highly recommended. Should the journey out / back be particularly wet, capes are provided on board.
• We do not cater for children under 10 years of age.
• All sailings are weather dependant.
• Please ensure to contact us on the morning of the sailing to confirm weather conditions.
• The Skippers decision on the day to sail or not in relation to weather is final.
• The Skippers decision in relation to weather is final.
• Portmagee Marina, Portmagee, Co. Kerry.
• 11th May to the 30th September.
• The boat departs daily from Portmagee harbour between 08:00 and 11:00am. Departure times will depend on our designated rota slot on any particular week.
• Weather permitting.
• The boat trip to the Skelligs takes 50 minutes approx. and you have between 2 and 2.5 hours on the rock.
• The Skelligs tour stops for a while at the Little Skelligs to allow you to view the bird colony and seals.
• The return boat trip lasts a further 50 minutes approx and you are back in Portmagee between 13:30 and 15:30.
• It is advisable to book well in advance.
• No refunds will be given for cancellations made less than 28 days in advance or for a no- show.
• Reservations cancelled more than 7 days in advance of the departure time will receive a full refund.
• No refunds will be given for cancellations made less than 7 days in advance of the departure time, or in the case of a no-show.
• Trips cancelled due to weather will be refunded the deposit in full.
• We reserve the right to change the departure time. You will be provided with advance notice of such changes.

StandBy Boat Trip To Land

Standy booking:

• This is not a guarantee that you will receive a place/places on the landing tour. You are placing yourself on this list in the hope that a place/places will become available on the landing tour.
• When you book on as standby with us you are placed on our list.
• If you have decided to place yourself on the list, it is important that you do check your email regularly.
• Once we receive a cancellation we will send out a notification via email that there is availability for your particular date.
• Once the email has been sent to you it will be your responsibility to make contact with us.
• The best way to try and secure that booking from the standby list once you receive the notification of availability is to contact us by phone.
• Also if you have placed yourself on the standby list it would be important that you are in the local vicinity. It will increase you chances, but unfortunately will not guarantee you a place .
• (Cancellations often happen on the morning of the sailing, at the very last minute with no shows)

Eco Cruise Trip Around

• There is a €25 deposit for all Eco Cruises plus a 5% handling fee. The balance is a cash payment made on the boat.
• Unfortunately due to adverse weather and sea conditions tours are often cancelled. Pre-paid tours will receive a refund.
• Receiving contact information (Phone / Email) etc during the booking phase are of paramount importance as this ensures you will be contactable should trip times change / are cancelled.
• Depart - 14:30 - Return 17:00
• Details of departure times will be displayed on your booking ticket.
• Please arrive at Portmagee harbour up to 20 minutes prior to the boat departure.
• The boat trip around the Skelligs is a 2.5 hrs approximately.
• View of the east landing (also known as the blind cove), which contain ancient steps to the monastery.
• View of the south landing, which contains a second set of ancient steps to the monastery.
• View of the north landing, which contains a third set of ancient steps to the monastery.
• View of Christ’s Saddle, Monastery on cliff side of Skellig Michael.
• View of roadway build by lighthouse people between 1821-1826 which sits on the cliff face and travels right up to the monastery.
• View of lower lighthouse (still in operation), and upper lighthouse (now in ruins).
• View of the wailing woman, the monastic settlement and hermitage cells on the south peak.
• Viewing at Little Skellig includes the vast birdlife (75,000 gannets and growing) and marine life such as the grey seal.
• We do not have an age restriction on the Eco Tour around the Skelligs, but we will make a safety call on the day of the sailing in relation to the weather.
• You must contact us one day in advance of the sailing date. Contact us again on the morning of the sailing to confirm weather conditions. We reserve the right to change the departure time and will give advance notice. The Skippers decision in relation to weather is final.
• Portmagee, Portmagee Marina,Co. Kerry
• The boat tour around the Skelligs is 2.5 hrs approximately.
• 28th April to the 30th September.
• If you cancel your tour 7 days in advance of the sailing date, no cancellation fee applies and you will receive a full refund on the amount paid.
• If you cancel you tour less than 7 days in advance, no refund will be issued.
• No refund will be given for a no-show.
• If the tour is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, your deposit will be refunded to you.
• It is important that you contact us on the morning of the sailing to discuss the weather conditions by phone.
• Receiving contact information (Phone / Email) etc during the booking phase are of paramount importance as this ensures you will be contactable should trip times change/ cancelled.
• We reserve the right to change the departure time and will give advance notice.
• The decision of the skipper is final in relation to the cancellation of the tour.

Terms and Conditions for Eco Cruise

• We do not have an age restriction on the Eco Tour around the Skelligs, but we will make a safety call on the day of the sailing in relation to the weather
• You must contact us one day in advance of the sailing date.
• Contact us again on the morning of the sailing to confirm weather conditions.
• Portmagee,Co. Kerry

Terms and Conditions for Landing Tours

• We do not cater for Children under 10 years of age.
• Late shows will not be accepted and refunds will not be provided.
• No refunds will be given for cancellations made less than 28 days in advance or for a no- show
• If you cancel your reservation more than 7 days in advance of the departure time, no cancellation fee applies and you will receive a full refund.
• We reserve the right to change the departure time and we will give you advance notice of this.

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