visit skellig michael

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.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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. :)

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How to Visit Skellig Michael, the Irish Island of Star Wars Fame

An otherworldly island off the coast of County Kerry

cryber/ Getty Images

Craggy Skellig Michael once drew in medieval monks looking for a remote retreat where they could focus on their faith without distractions. Thanks to Star Wars, the wild island off the coast of Kerry is now a major destination thanks to its newfound cinematic fame. If the green rocky archipelago looks familiar it is probably because Skellig Michael and nearby Little Skellig were the real-life backdrops for the imaginary Planet Ahch-to in "The Last Jedi" and "The Force Awakens."

Ready to brave the sea to explore the otherworldly landscape? Here’s how to visit Skellig Michael.

The first human settlement on Skellig Michael was founded by monks in the sixth century who traveled out to the remote archipelago to better connect with the divine. The monks used the local stone to build huts and terraced ledges, planting the small carved out areas with vegetable gardens to sustain themselves in the harsh climate. They also created a complicated system for purifying drinking water, some of which can still be seen today.

In the 11th century, the monastery was dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel and six new beehive huts were created. The round exterior of the huts protected an inner rectangular structure, and this unique shape helped to keep rain from entering inside.

Experts estimate that no more than 12 monks ever lived on the island at any one time based on the number of dwellings. However, even those twelve souls abandoned the isolated island sometime around the 13th century due to a changing climate that brought more storms and a restructured church hierarchy which called them back to mainland Ireland.

Appearance in Star Wars

The Skelligs were used as a filming location for Star Wars episodes 7 and 8, "The Last Jedi" and "The Force Awakens."

The Skelligs were portrayed onscreen as Ahch-To, a watery planet dotted with rocky islands in the Unknown Regions. In Star Wars, Ahch-To is the birthplace of the Jedi Order and Luke Skywalker’s home. In fact, the design of Luke’s home is based on the actual ruins of the sixth century monastery on Skellig Michael.

Notable scenes that took places on Skellig Michael includes when Rey travels to Ahch-To to find Luke. The stairs that Rey climbs up to meet Luke in the Force Awakens are the same shale stone steps that really lead up to the early monastic ruins.

The porg (sea bird) scene also takes place on Skellig Michael and was inspired by the puffins who visit the remote island every spring.

While much of the Star Wars filming was done on location, the movie franchise also re-created the monastic backdrop on a movie set in order to protect the ruins.

What to Do on Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is one of the most interesting protected archaeological sites in Ireland. A clear day will offer stunning views towards Little Skellig and across the sea, but the main thing to do on Skellig Michael is to visit the remains of St. Fionan’s Monastery.

First, climb the 618 stairs carved into the rock in order to explore the beehive huts that were built here centuries ago. The main monastery area was built onto a terrace 600 feet above sea level, and the only way up is by foot. It is only recommended for people in good health and children must be supervised at all times.

The hand-built walls that rim the terraces helped to ensure stability, as well as provide shelter from the harsh Atlantic winds. It is possible to walk through the site and admire the stone slabs and crosses that dot the hostile landscape. There is also an old cemetery located on Skellig Michael, as well as the hollowed-out shell of a church built in the Middle Ages.

In addition to the monastery, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, it might also be possible to spot puffins in late spring. The seabirds flock to Skellig Michael to lay eggs and raise their chicks. In fact, nearby Little Skellig is closed to the public because it is home to the second largest gannet colony in the world and is a protected bird sanctuary.

There are no restrooms, cafes, or shelters on Skellig Michael so it is best to pack a backpack with food for lunch and come prepared for all sorts of weather.

How to Visit Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is one of Ireland’s best islands and is located about 8 miles off the coast of Co. Kerry. It is only possible to visit Skellig Michael between May and October by reserving a seat with one of the approved boatmen listed on the Heritage Ireland’s website .

Unfortunately, even if you manage to reserve one of the coveted seats on a boat heading out to Skellig Michael, all trips are completely dependent on the weather and you will need to wait until the morning of departure for the trip to be confirmed. The short visiting season is designed to overlap with the best weather and sea conditions but there are no guarantees when it comes to Atlantic storms.

Hopefully, the tides and sunshine will be on your side. In that case, (depending on the boatmen you have booked with) boats leave from Portmagee, Valentia or Ballinskelligs. If you have not booked ahead, it might be worth stopping in early in the morning to see if anyone has canceled or failed to show up for their departure time.

Most boats leave their Co. Kerry ports around 9:30 a.m. and return at 3:30 p.m.

What Else to Do Nearby

There is plenty to do nearby if your visit to Skellig Michael is canceled, or if you simply want to spend more time in the stunning County Kerry before and after the island outing.

Take a short trip outside of the village of Portmagee to admire the sea and walk along the sand at Reencaheragh Strand.

To catch a glimpse of the islands and look down towards Dingle, drive up to Coomanaspig Pass.

If the crossing to the Skelligs is too rough, aim for Valentia Island instead. Valentia is connected to Portmagee by the Maurice O’Neill Memorial Bridge. The island is home to the Skellig Experience , an educative visitors center with information about the history and ecology of the Skelligs.

Portmagee is one of the best stops to make while driving the Ring of Kerry , which means there are several other locations within easy reach. These include Ballycarbery Castle in Cahersiveen, Torc Waterfall, and Killarney National Park.

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Visiting Skellig Michael: What You Should Know Before You Go

Visiting and climbing Skellig Michael in Ireland is one of the Top 100 Travel Adventures  in the world.  View the list  and follow our mission to complete them.

Skellig Michael is the largest of the two Skellig Islands which are found off the west coast of Ireland, and which form the most westerly point both in the country and in Europe.

This is one of the most rugged, raw and isolated locations in Ireland, but because of their recent exposure as one of the main settings in the Star Wars movie, The Force Awakens, the island is becoming more and more popular amongst tourists.

The Skellig Islands though, due to their inaccessibility, have largely remained unknown and under-visited until now, but if you brave the rough seas and the precarious landings, then you’ll discover an ancient rock that’s brimming with wildlife and that’s the site of some of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval monasteries.

It’s a unique destination, and to help you to reach the isolated Skellig Islands, here’s our guide on traveling to Skellig Michael!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Ireland (Travel Guide)

Where are the Skellig Islands?

Table of Contents

The Skellig Islands comprise just two large, rocky and seemingly inhospitable islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The largest island is Skellig Michael, while the smaller of the two is known simply as Little Skellig.

The islands are found in western Ireland, and they lie around 7 miles off the mainland. The Skellig Islands are part of County Kerry and the closest landmass is the Inveragh Peninsular. Beyond the islands, there is nothing but the roaring Atlantic Ocean, as this is the most western location in Europe.

How to Get to Skellig Michael

The two islands lie just a mile or so apart, but it’s only possible to make landfall on Skellig Michael, as Little Skellig is too rough and inhospitable to actually visit. Most boat tours, however, will still get you close enough to the smaller island for you to see it at least from afar.

The only way to get to the Skellig Islands is of course by boat. The journey from the mainland is short, but it can be rough, depending on the weather, so be prepared for the worst if you are prone to seasickness.

On the mainland, the majority of tours depart from the sleepy fishing village of Portmagee. The village is found on the far western end of the Inveragh Peninsula, which forms part of the ever-popular Ring of Kerry road trip route, and part of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Portmagee has a population of just over 100 residents, and it’s a charming, colorful and ramshackle place to visit. With tours leaving in the early morning, you may want to spend the night here before traveling across to the Skellig Islands.

There are several hotels and guesthouses that can put you up, but in peak season, surging demand can see rooms sold out.

Portmagee is one hour away from Killarney, which is the major tourist hub in County Kerry. Killarney has transport connections to most other major destinations in Ireland, but unfortunately, local public transport can be limited, so you will want to rent a vehicle or join a tour from Killarney if you don’t want to spend a night or two in Portmagee.

Book your Skelling Michael adventure today ! 

Where to Stay to Visit the Skellig Islands

Seeing as you cannot stay on the islands and the tours are highly weather dependent, I would recommend planning to stay in Portmagee the night before your tour is booked. This will ensure you do not have any chances of missing your tour if you have to commute from somewhere else. 

It also offers you a place to hang out if there are delays due to weather, which is quite common. We stayed at the Skellig Ring House and found it comfortable. The Portmagee Seaside Cottages is another good option. 

Alternatively, you could base yourself in Killarney and, if you have a rental car, drive the hour to Portmagee the morning of your tour. We stayed at the Loch Lein Country House during our time in Killarney and LOVED it. 

When to Visit Skellig Michael

So, you’ll need a boat to get to Skellig Michael, but luckily there are plenty of local companies operating tours to the islands, with the majority departing from Portmagee.

Boat tours to Skellig Michael depart early in the morning and return in the afternoon, but due to the wild nature of the ocean, and unpredictable conditions, tours are very weather dependent, even when it’s the height of summer.

Boat tours are only allowed to run during the summer months, between May 15 and October 2 , as for the rest of the year conditions out on the ocean and in particular, around the islands themselves, are too dangerous for the boats to make it safely. This really is the Wild Atlantic Way, and safety is a real concern here.

Even during the open season, boat tours can be canceled at a moment’s notice, as the weather can easily take a turn for the worse. The exposed location of the islands doesn’t help either, as they attract some of the worst and most powerful waves and swells around their rocky coastline, making journeys to them at times, perilous.

Cancellations are more common at the start and end of the tourist season when the weather is less predictable, so if you can, then try to get here in the middle of the season. Even then, be prepared to wait, and be prepared for cancellations!

Aside from the weather considerations though, the most important rule to remember is that visitor numbers to Skellig Michael are limited to 180 people per day , across all the tour companies operating boats to the islands. So it is best to book in advance ! 

If there have been several days of cancellations due to poor weather, or even when it’s simply the middle of peak season, you might find that spots are limited.

Skellig Michael’s feature in the Star Wars movies has only exacerbated this too, so in the middle summer, make sure you book your tour in advance or be prepared to wait for a ticket over several days!

Atlantic Puffins on Skellig Michael

If you want to see the Atlantic Puffins that come to the island to nest, be sure to visit during the peak summer months of June and July . Come August, the birds have often moved on to other nesting areas and your chances of seeing them will be greatly reduced. 

We visited in mid-June and had the luck of experiencing hundreds of nesting birds on the island. This made for some insane photo opportunities, as they go about their business is very close proximity to the trails and sights. 

History of the Skellig Islands

The Skellig Islands have been mostly uninhabited for centuries, except for the odd weather station worker or lighthouse keeper that’s been forced to brave the fierce elements and lonely isolation during their tour. This wasn’t always the case though, as Skellig Michael is the site of some of the most important and best-preserved medieval ruins in Ireland.

The Skellig Islands were inhabited from around the 8th century onwards by monks of the Augustinian order, who built the monastery and hermitage that you find still standing today.

The island was at times pillaged by Vikings, but the monks would return time after time until the 16th century when their position due to politics and the weather became untenable on this remote rock in the Atlantic.

Tourism began in the Victorian era when the Ring of Kerry became an increasingly popular route for travelers in Ireland. In 1996, the islands were protected under a UNESCO World Heritage listing.

With an increase in tourism due to Star Wars, more rules and regulations, including capping visitor numbers each day, have been enforced over the past few years to protect the ruins and the natural environment.

Things to do on the Skellig Islands

Cruise by little skellig.

Little Skellig is the smaller of the two islands, but due to its incredibly rocky terrain and even rougher seas, you can’t actually set foot on it. Boats can’t land here, but most tours will take visitors on a journey around the island itself, so you can see the rocks, the jagged cliffs and the wildlife, even if you can’t set foot here.

Climb ALL the steps on Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is the most impressive of the two islands, and it’s the island that you can land on. Not all tours, however, actually make landfall, so make sure the tour you are on includes this before you book.

Some boat tours only take you around the cliffs and the rocks, as there are only a few landing points on the island, and sometimes these are completely washed out or unapproachable.

If you are making landfall, then be prepared for a rough entry and exit. You’ll also need to be in relatively decent shape, as the rocky terrain is slippy and wet at the best of times. The few paths on the island are ancient and things are rather mountainous, to say the least.

St Michael’s Monastery

The main site of historical importance on Skellig Michael is St Michael’s Monastery. This was the main place of worship for the monks who lived here, and it’s thought to date back centuries, although the foundation date is unknown.

The monastery is incredibly well preserved, and you can explore the chapel, the rustic graveyard and see the iconic domed buildings made from local rocks where it’s thought that the monks themselves might have lived.

The Hermitage

Skellig Michael has two main peaks. St Michael’s Monastery is found on one peak, and the Hermitage is found on the opposite. The Hermitage is another monastic relic that’s well preserved, however, it’s not easy to get to.

The Hermitage is found atop the peak, and the ancient stone pathway leading to the summit is incredibly dangerous in foul weather – this was, after all, a place for the hermits to escape the rest of the world!

Few visitors actually brave it and make it to the top, as you need prior permission, but the view of the peak from below, covered in clouds and mist, or with the Atlantic Ocean raging behind, is a beautiful one.

The Skellig Experience Visitor Center

The Skellig Experience Visitor Center is actually located on the mainland, not on the islands of course, due to their inaccessibility.

The visitor’s center is a great chance to learn more about the island’s geological and human history, and if you can’t make it out to Skellig Michael due to the weather, this is about as close as you’ll get to immerse yourself in the unique local history.

The experience shows you how the monks built their island monastery and homes and how they survived on this remote rock for hundreds of years.

Observe the Atlantic Puffins

Skellig Michael island is one of the best places in the world to see Atlantic Puffins up close. During the summer months, the island is littered with thousands of nesting puffins. They are not too bothered by the presence of visitors either. 

As with any wildlife encounter, it is important to maintain a safe distance from them to not disturb their daily practices. Do not try to feed them or touch them. If you move slowly and respect them, you will be able to get some incredible photos of the birds during your visit.

Preparing for Your Trip to the Skellig Islands

A trip out to the Skellig Islands is no easy day trip. You need to be prepared for all types of weather and be ready for some physical exertion. The seas between Ireland and the Skellig Islands are notorious for being rough and rolling. 

Be prepared to follow the directions of your boat captain and listen to the instructions that are given to avoid potentially going overboard as you travel.

Once you’re on the island, be prepared to climb many steep steps to the top if you want to see the best sights on the island. 

I’d advise you to bring the following items with you on your trip out to Skellig Michael:

• Meclizine or other anti-nausea medication, for seasickness.
• A warm jacket
• A rain jacket
• Water and a small snack. There are spots on the island for a picnic.
• Hiking shoes or walking shoes are ideal. Do not wear sandals.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• A camera with a telephoto lens , if you have one

More on Ireland:

• 15 Spectacular Things to do in Galway
• 15 Crazy Cool Things to do in Dingle
• 3 Days in Dublin-Things to Do in Dublin
• Where to Stay in Dublin for 2019
• 10 Best Day Trips from Dublin Worth Taking
• 9 Castles in Ireland You Cannot Miss
• 33 Ireland Photos Guaranteed to Cause Wanderlust
• Best Road Trip Routes in Ireland
• Best Hikes in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland
• A Short Guide to Renting A Car in Ireland
• Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route: 5 Best Stops
• Horseback Riding in Dingle, Ireland
• Finding Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland
• The Real Titanic Experience in Ireland
• Climbing Carrauntoohill- Ireland’s Tallest Peak

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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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

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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.

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How to Visit Skellig Michael – A Tour of Ireland’s Beehive Monasteries

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: December 19, 2022

Skelling Michael is a remote island sitting 12 km off the coast of Ireland in the middle of the rugged seas of the Atlantic Ocean. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was one of the most fascinating things we visited in the entire country. ( And that is saying a lot! )

Table of Contents

How to Visit Skellig Michael

We took a tour of Skellig Michael in April and had the most amazing weather. But that isn’t always the case. It is often very difficult to visit Skellig Michael due to inclement weather and a short boating season. More often than not, trips to Skellig Michael are canceled due to weather.

Getting to Skellig Michael is half the fun. Sometimes if you do manage to get to the island, the surging seas put a stop to any chance of making a landing. We met three women on our boat who had waited for three days trying to get out to the islands. If they didn’t have the luxury to wait, they would have missed their window.

The ride out to the Skellig Islands is by a small fishing boat facing rough seas. It offers quite the thrill ride as you take in the amazing views of the peninsula. So a visit to Skellig Michael is something special and worth savoring.

How to Book Tickets to Skellig Michael

Boat Trips to Skellig Michael are booked at the Visitor’s Centre on Valentia Island.

Each year the Irish government grants only 13 boat licenses to tour operators who run trips to Skellig Michael from the mainland. Space is limited and you must book in advance. Since Star Wars has put The Skelligs on the map, the islands now take 180 people per day.

• Tours to Skellig Michael run from the end of May to the End of August.
• They leave daily from the Skellig Michael Experience Centre at 9:30 am and last until about 2pm. Y ou can book tickets to Skellig Michael here.

Since the Skelligs have become so popular, we highly recommend booking several months in advance. They begin to take bookings at the end of March.

Tours to Skellig Michael run weather permitting. If the seas are rough (which they often are) trips will be canceled and you’ll have to wait for another day.

Skellig Experience Visitors Centre

This trip was part of our Wild Atlantic Way road trip itinerary, so once we finished up driving around the famous Ring of Kerry, we made our way to Port Magee to explore these amazingly preserved monastic beehives.

Our trip began at The Skellig Experience Visitors Centre on Valentia Island just off the Peninsula of County Kerry. The visitor’s centre has exhibits about the history of Skellig Michael and it offers an excellent video introduction before visiting the Skellig Islands.

After getting an understanding of what to expect, we set sail to the high seas of Ireland for one of our greatest ancient ruins experiences ever.

The Boat Trip to the Skellig Islands

The boat trip took about an hour to get out to Skellig Michael. You can pick up snacks at the visitor’s centre for the ride which was a nice touch. It was also a blessing having full bellies to ease the sea sickness.

If you are prone to seasickness, I suggest taking medication. The water can be choppy and the swells can cause nausea for the uninitiated.

There are two Skellig Islands to visit

Skellig Michael is the largest of the two islands and houses the 6th-century Monasteries. I is the only island where you have the opportunity to land. Read about another remote island Easter Island – Mysterious Statues on the Pacific Island

Little Skellig is an island that is viewed from the boat. It is home to thousands of birds migrating through the area and it is an impressive view from the top of Skellig Michael.

Landing on Skellig Michael

There are boat tours that take you out to the Skellig Islands and simply let you see them from the water, but we recommend landing on Skellig Michael and taking some time to explore the beehive monasteries. They are what makes this destination so special.

We were lucky enough to have blue skies on the day of our tour to Skellig Michael but even with clear skies, the seas can be rough. But we all made it out today but once we reached the dock, it was a hair-raising experience just getting off the boat.

The water was surging with sea swells tossing our boat. It was a rocky landing. For a moment, I thought the captain might not let us go ashore. But with everyone helping each other out, we all managed to get off in one piece.

Climbing the 600 Steps to the Skellig Monasteries

It was a thrilling experience to step off the boat and look up at the narrow steps leading to the monastery. When landing on the island, there are signs warning people to climb at their own risk and we can understand why. It is daunting when you look up at the steep grade along a narrow path. The trek looks steeper and tougher than we thought.

The climb takes you up an ancient and uneven stone path of 600 steps that reach the beehive monasteries standing 200 meters (600 feet) above sea level.

The stone steps were built by the monks over three centuries and as you make your way up, their skilled craftsmanship shines through. They are in extraordinary condition. Even after more than a thousand years of facing the wind and rains of the Atlantic Ocean, they are standing strong.

The Climb up Skellig Michael is Short but Steep

The climb to the beehive huts of Skellig Michael took us about half an hour. You can go faster if you don’t stop for so many pictures, or you can take your time. The boat gives you about two hours to explore. We recommend going directly up to the monastery and then taking your time on the way down. It is outstanding from above.

The beehive stone cells are fascinating to explore, but the views and setting of the island are even more breathtaking. It is extraordinary to see just how well the ancient monastic huts held up over the centuries facing the wild weather of Ireland’s Atlantic Coast.

Views from Skellig Michael

While walking through the grounds one can understand why the Christian Monks chose this spot as their place of refuge. The isolation from the mainland and sheer beauty of the landscape makes you feel that you are just a little bit closer to heaven

There are seven beehive huts to peruse offering various viewpoints from the island. We went above and below to see them from all angles.

What is there to see at Skellig Michael?

Besides the beehive huts, there is a church, a cemetery complete with stone crosses, terraces and gardens to explore on Skellig Michael.

Getting to the top is where you want to be to have time to see it all. And here you can live out your fantasies of training to be a Jedi Knight.

Star Wars Was Filmed at Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael not only attracts history buffs and travelers, but it has also now become a popular spot for film buffs and fanboys. In recent years, Skellig Michael has become one of the most popular things to do in Ireland thanks to Star Wars: The Force Awakens , The Rise of Skywalker and Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

But the Skellig Islands have drawn explorers for centuries to its mysterious shores. Still, very few people make the journey to see Skellig Michael and even fewer manage to step foot on the island.

Download your copy of Star Wars: Skellig Michael was featured in the Force Awakens and The Last Jedi

About Skellig Michael Ireland

Skellig Michael  is located in County Kerry just off the coast of Portmagee on the West Coast of Ireland. When you visit here, you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. Skellig Michael is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back 1400 years.

The Skellig Rocks were home to a group of Christian monks who built a monastery atop Skellig Michael between the 6th and 9th centuries. The monks lived in beehive huts that they built by hand while surviving the elements and Viking invasions until the 12th century.

These hearty monks lived on a diet of rainwater, sea birds, and the odd sea lion for food. Life was difficult during this early Christian period, but it gave them the seclusion they were looking for.

Where to Stay Near the Skellig Islands

Port Magee is the gateway to Skellig Michael and it is a good spot to make a base for your trip out to the island or even when driving the Ring of Kerry.

A great place to stay when visiting the Skellig Michael is The Moorings in Portmagee. Owner Gerard and his wife Patricia own the hotel and the adjoining pub and restaurant. There’s local traditional music in the Bridge Bar and in the summertime across the street, they have storytelling about the history of this fishing village and the Skellig Islands.

The Moorings can set up a Skellig Michael Island Tour for you, they’re located just a few minutes from the Skellig Visitors Centre and they offer plenty of advice on what to see and do in the are.

Portmagee is on the Wild Atlantic Way Coastal Route . If you drive up the West Coast of Ireland, be sure to add Portmaggee and the Skellig Islands into your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions about Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael reaches 200 metres (600 feet) above sea level. There are steep drops and  the climb can be a bit harrowing . Don’t go too close to the edge and take your time when climbing the uneven rocky path up that dates back to the 6th century.

If tickets are booked out for landings on Skellig Michael, you can  book sightseeing tours  that take you out and around the two Skellig Islands.

Skellig Michael is possible to see from land, but it is located 12 km (7.5 miles) offshore. It is best seen from the Kerry Cliffs at  Port Magee  just off the Ring of Kerry

Skellig Michael is difficult to visit because there are only 13 boats that operate during a short season. Plus weather is always a factor and high winds may stop landings.

And this is everything you need to know to visit Skellig Michael, if you are heading to Ireland, make sure to visit this amazing attraction. It is truly a fascinating place and it was our favorite thing to see in Ireland. (and that’s saying a lot!)

Read More about Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way:

• Tips for Driving the Wild Atlantic Way
• Where to Stay on the Wild Atlantic Way
• Unique Things to Do on the Wild Atlantic Way of Ireland
• 10 Best Scenic Views on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
• Cliffs of Moher – Visiting the Pinnacle of Ireland’s Scenery
• Poulnadrone Dolmen
• A Tour of Skellig Michael – How to Visit the Beehive Monasteries of Ireland
• Mizen Head, Ireland – The Extreme Edge of Ireland
• The Best Things to do in Cork, Ireland

You May Also Like These Ireland Travel Tips

• 23 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland
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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

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Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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19 thoughts on “How to Visit Skellig Michael – A Tour of Ireland’s Beehive Monasteries”

Possibly one of my favourite places to travel to in Ireland, I just love the sheer remoteness of it. Even the fact that Skellig is hard to get to makes it all the more appealing. Will definitely be revisiting soon again once travel restrictions are eased here in Ireland

Thanks for visiting Skellig Michael and share your wonderful experience. Though we never had a chance to visit the place but now after reading your blog I could feel the place and the beauty of it. Thank you once again for sharing

I’ve been collecting information for my journal about Skellig. Thanks for sharing this amazing post. It’ll help me out get a clear view .

Did you find Luke Skywalker there?

I was looking for him, but the Force was with him. He could hide and keep his privacy 😀

Thanks for the great post!

Looks like such an intriguing place. Really like the video you guys have done as well. The parts where Deb is just commenting from within the room give it an extra documentary touch I think.

Thanks Sophie, that means a lot to us. We’ve been working on our videos like mad this summer trying to make them more interesting. So we really appreciate that you took the time to watch and comment.

I would LOVE to visit this place someday. It was originally on the itinerary of the post-TBEX press trip I did last year, but it was taken off. And the weather was terrible when we were down that way anyway. It looks incredible, though! Definitely on the bucket list.

Hi Amanda, that’s common. Most of the time you can’t get on the island. A Group of women kept trying for three days before our trip and finally got to Skellig the day before they had to head back to the city to fly home. Luckily there is a lot to do around the area and it’s near the ring of Kerry so while you wait for good weather, you can do a lot of sightseeing if you have the tme.

Sounds like getting to the island is tricky, to say the least! You were fortunate to have a bluebird day :-). We haven’t visited Ireland yet, but we hear the hiking and walking there is great… (and we’d love to do that).

Yes indeed, we were very fortunate. We knew it was difficult conditions, but we didn’t realize that more often than not people either don’t land or don’t even get to go out on the water. WE feel very lucky. Yes indeed, the hiking is great, they have long distance and short trails all over Ireland.

I can only imagine how vast and peaceful the scenery there must be. Must be a great place to disappear and really introspect…

That’s a great way of putting it Rashad. There’s only so many people allowed on the island and only so many boats that go out, and they stagger their times, so it never felt crowded at all. We had about a half an hour up there when we were completely alone as everyone started down earlier than us to catch the boat.

That looks truly amazing. I visited Ireland with my family and as the boss 13 year old, I planned most of the itinerary. I did well in England as I knew the history so well, but I didn’t even know what Lonely Planet was then, so we missed quite a bit in Ireland including this. It looks like such a brilliant place. I definitely want to see it when I get back to Ireland.

Now that’s impressive! You planned the itinerary at 13? I have a hard enough time doing that today. It’s true though, without some guidance it’s difficult to see everything. There is so much to see and do on the Wild Atlantic Way that it’s easy to miss a lot. We had a lot of help planning and we still missed a lot ourselves. I think Ireland needs to be seen on two or three separate occasions.

Wow! What an amazing place. Very unique and isolated. Would love to visit.

It truly is one of the most unique places we’ve visited. Usually Dave and I aren’t the best audience’s when it comes to seeing ruins. We lose interest quickly and don’t see the point of all the fuss. Skellig Michael is one of the exceptions

Wild Irish Walks

Visiting Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . One of only 3 sites in Ireland with this designation. The others being Newgrange and the Giant’s Causeway. It’s pretty easy to see why Skellig Michael keeps such illustrious company. In a word, the island is spectacular. Visiting Skellig Michael is a must.

Visiting Skellig Michael had been on our wish list of places to visit for pretty much as long as I can remember. We finally got to complete the trip at the end of August in 2021.

Skellig Michael is one of two islands that form the Skellig Islands. The other island being Little Skellig (or Skellig Beag). I say islands but these are in reality giant rocks rising vertically from the ocean and soaring to heights of 520ft and 440ft respectively.

Apart from the natural beauty, what makes visiting Skellig Michael even more impressive is that a group of monks set up a monastery on this rocky outcrop 12km from the Irish coastline in the 6th century. Monks continued to inhabit the island up until the 13th century. The remains of the monastic settlement remain (relatively intact) on Skellig Michael to this day. We walked the 618 steep and tricky steps to get the settlement near the summit of the island. It was worth every step. Simply Amazing!

How to Get to Skellig Michael?

Notionally it is free to enter Skellig Michael. However, you need to pay a licensed tour operator to ferry you over. There are 15 licensed boats allowed to bring tourists to the Island. I’ve provided a list below of many of these (as of the time of writing).

Booking well in advance is strongly encouraged as demand for landing trips to Skellig Michael is extremely high. Indeed, the number of people wishing to visit the island has expanded even further over the past few years ever since Skellig Michael appeared as a location in the Star Wars films (The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi).

If demand for tickets is one obstacle for fulfilling your ambition of visiting Skellig Michael; there is also one other problem. The weather. Boat trips can be cancelled if weather conditions do not allow safe crossing to the islands. The Office of Public Works (OPW) manage and maintain the islands. They decide on what companies receive licenses to land on the island with tourists. The OPW also make the decision on whether it is safe for these landings. Conditions on Skellig Michael can often be different from the mainland due to its exposure to the elements.

One interesting fact from skelligmichael.com is that during the Summer landing season, boats only get to land about 65% – 70% of the time.

So for many people, their planned trip can be cancelled at very short notice. While this is obviously very disappointing, some consolation can be taken from the many other tourist attractions in the area (such as The Kerry Cliffs ).

Skellig Michael Tour Operators

We organised our trip to Skellig Michael with Paul Devane Skellig Michael Cruises . It’s important to note that there is no one central booking repository for trips to Skellig Michael. All licensed operators run independently from each other and bookings will need to be made directly with the boat company themselves. Some of the other 15 licensed operators are as follows:

From Portmagee

• Skelligcoastadventures.ie
• Skelligmichael.voyage
• Skelligmichaelboattrips.com
• Skelligwalker.ie
• Skelligmichaelboats.ie
• Skelligrocktours.com

There are also sailings from Ballinskelligs with theskelligsforceawakens.com . Ballinskelligs is a fishing village about 15km south of Portmagee.

Most of the above mentioned operators also include non-landing trip options. Here you stay on the boat and circle the islands. I would strongly recommend the landing trip option if at all possible.

What’s included in a Skellig Michael Landing Tour

A typical landing tour from Portmagee involves a one hour boat trip to the island, usually 2.5 hours on the island itself before making the one hour boat trip back again. Two and a half hours is sufficient time to spend on Skellig Michael and take in all the island has to offer.

Departure times are normally between 8.30am and 9.30 but can be earlier or later depending on landing slot times issued by the OPW. We paid €125 per person with Skellig Michael cruises plus a €10 booking fee. All other operators seem to be around the same price range though it may be possible to get a slightly cheaper price by shopping around.

The Boat Trip

I’m usually early for everything and the trip to Skellig Michael started off along those lines. We were the first ones to board the boat. The boat itself measures about 30 feet in length with passenger seating at an open deck section at the back of the vessel.

To be honest, I was a little worried about the trip over to Skellig Michael. Any time I sail anywhere with my wife, I can’t help but think of the old superstition to never get on a boat with a redheaded woman.

My fears increased steadily as each couple that boarded the boat after us seemed to contain a red headed female. In all, of the 8 passengers and 2 crew (Rachel and Hugh), we had 3 red haired women on board!

Any fears proved unfounded and the trip to Skellig Michael was nice and calm (as an aside, the Independent has a nice article to other seafaring superstitions ).

Any worries we had in relation to weather conditions and accessing the island were allayed as soon as we got up that morning. The sea was calm and the skies were blue. A perfect day to visit Skellig Michael. As we sauntered out to sea, we took in the lovely views back over Valentia Island and the Iveragh Peninsula behind us. We even saw a pod of dolphins on the way over. So keep your eyes peeled on the trip.

Little Skellig

Visiting Skellig Michael means travelling past Little Skellig. Little Skellig is home to the largest colony of Northern Gannets in Ireland. Access to Little Skellig is not permitted. Our boat tour sailed us around the island so it was great to get as close of possible to this giant Gannet colony.

Circling Little Skellig offers some pretty spectacular views in itself. My favourites were those where you could see Skellig Michael shimmering temptingly in the background. The below image is an example of this. The rock formation is fittingly known as the “Elephant Trunk”.

Approaching the Island

Soon we were on our final stretch. The last 1km of ocean before we reached Skellig Michael. From the back of the boat, we took in the lovely image of Little Skellig with the Irish coast in the background.

We circled again. This time around Skellig Michael itself. To the south of the island is the Skelligs Lighthouse. They completed construction of two Lighthouses on the island in 1826. Amazingly, the island hosted lighthouse keepers who lived on the island up to as recently as 1987 when the south lighthouse was automated. The construction of a helicopter pad in 1969 made it easier to transport workers to and from the island. The northern lighthouse only stayed in operational use up until 1870.

Unfortunately a number of lighthouse keepers died while working on the island. The most tragic story being that of two children of a lighthouse keeper who died in 1868 and 1869. The children are buried in the monastery cemetery beside the monks of the island.

The northern lighthouse no longer stands, however the road hewn into the rock between the lighthouses is still in place. The pathway plays a critical function allowing tourists to visit the island as it connects the landing jetty to the most accessible set of steps up to the monastery.

Landing on Skellig Michael

Our boat pulled up to the pier and we needed to jump from the boat on to the stone structure as our little craft bobbed up and down on the water. It’s easy to see how this would be difficult in more adverse weather conditions. We again counted ourselves lucky that we were visiting Skellig Michael on such a glorious day.

We followed the pathway past the helicopter pad and basic toilet facilities (a new addition) and on to the base of the steps that would bring us upwards to the monastic site.

Here, we needed to listen to a health and safety talk from one of the OPW workers on the island. Visitors are not allowed ascend the steps without first completing this safety briefing. The talk only took about 5 minutes. I could feel a keen sense of anticipation among the group of 20-30 people as we listened. Soon we would be making our way up the steps!

One of the main pieces of advice given was in relation to the 618 steps we needed to take to reach the monastery. The steps are steep in some places and uneven in other places. Caution is needed in all places. The seemingly vertical drops can be quite scary!

Going down the steps is actually the more difficult part. Some people choose to sit and scooch down each step for some of the more intricate sections. This is fine and perfectly usual and acceptable when visiting Skellig Michael.

Not too far into the climb, Star Wars fans will recognise the Wailing Woman Rock which features in the The Last Jedi Film. Rey destroys the rock with her lightsabre in the movie but it miraculously still stands in real life.

The Monastery

After climbing the steps, we finally reached the settlement at the top of the north peak of the island. We entered through the terraced gardens. Upper and lower gardens exist with the remains of a number of other buildings also.

These include the famous Beehive Huts where the monks slept, St. Michael’s Church, a large and small Oratory, an alter and a cemetery. In addition, the remains of the drainage systems and water cisterns used by the monks are also visible.

There is a beautiful feeling of serenity and tranquillity around the settlement. With the numbers of visitors capped by the amount of boats landing, it never felt overly busy (in fact, a limit of 180 visitors per day is in place on the island).

OPW tour guides give an information talk every hour or so explaining the history of the island. We found this very informative. The guides certainly know how to communicate their knowledge in a light and easy manner. For the rest of our time there, we strolled around at our own leisure, exploring the buildings and taking in the views. We sat and ate our packed lunch in one of the small terraced gardens. The views were amazing and it certainly was a memorable meal.

Time seemed to fly by and soon we took our last glances before setting off towards the steps. This time going down and back to the boat.

South Peak Hermitage

The slow walk downwards gave us a good view of the south peak of the island. Amazingly, some of the monks didn’t think the North Peak of Skellig Michael was isolated enough. As a result, they sought out something even more extreme. The result is the Hermitage on the south peak where lone monks would retreat to in order to try to get closer to God. The Hermitage is too dangerous to allow tourists access.

When to Visit Skellig Michael?

Our slow and steady pace down the steps eventually got us back to the access road. From there we strolled back towards the waiting boat. All in all, it was an amazing experience visiting Skellig Michael.

The only advice I would give is to try and book a trip before the Puffins migrate from the island. The Puffins arrive on Skellig Michael in late April and stay until early August. We had just missed them as our visit was at the end of August.

Landing Season for tourists is generally from mid May until the end of September. Although this can vary from year to year and is at the discretion of the OPW.

As mentioned above, visiting Skellig Michael is subject to the weather and also the huge volume of demand to visit the islands. The impressive skelligmichael.com offers an in depth guide on how to go about booking a tour. As with a lot of these things, sometimes you do need a bit of luck…..may the force be with you.

Visit Skellig Michael: Guide And Tips

Categories Kerry , Where To Go

Skellig Michael and Little Skellig or The Skelligs/Skellig Islands are two small, rocky islands off the coast of County Kerry .

The smaller of the two islands, Little Skellig, is closed to the public and has always been wild and uninhabitable. It is the sanctuary of a protected colony of about 25,000 sea birds.

The bigger Skellig Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its well-preserved early Christian monastery stronghold. The island was also extensively featured in the latest Star Wars film, The Force Awakens. 

Skellig Michael is one of the most unique places on earth, and also among the least accessible destinations. However, this rocky Island remains to be one of those ultimate bucket list places in Ireland.

Things you'll find in this article

About the Skellig Islands

Ballinskelligs, things to do in skellig michael , travel tips when going to skellig michael , royal valentia hotel, the moorings guesthouse & seafood restaurant.

If you want to learn more about Skellig Michael, read on to find out how to get there, what to see and other valuable tips to help you with your trip. 

Skellig Michael – filming location for Star Wars films

The Skellig Islands have been mentioned in history since 600 AD. Skellig Michael became a shelter for many Catholics whose beliefs and liberties were being suppressed during the Penal Laws period. Skellig Michael (Great Skellig), the largest of the Skellig Islands, was the site of one of Ireland’s first monastic settlements.

St. Fionan’s monastery monks lived in stone beehive-shaped houses and maintained modest lives. The cottages, which are round on the outside but rectangular on the inside, were meticulously constructed to ensure that no rain fell between the stones.

The island became a pilgrimage site after the monks left in the thirteenth century. The closing sequence of Star Wars: The Force Awakens was filmed on Skellig Michael, which was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

The following film in the franchise, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, featured the island once more as a location. The Skellig Michael monastery, which represents an old Jedi temple, appears in the film.

Meanwhile, Little Skellig Island has no historical history other than the fact that it has never been inhabited.

The island has long been wild, consisting of a rocky outcrop that is particularly unsuitable to humans. Only nature reigns supreme on the island, which resembles a massive steep rock.

The island, which is much smaller than Skellig Michael, is recognized by its dark, almost black granite. It gives a spectacular perspective of its steep granite sides from a tour boat or shuttle. It’s now home to a big colony of seals, as well as seabirds like murres, gannets, and puffins. 

Tourists are urged not to approach the island too closely, as their boat may be pounded by the waves and crushed on the rocks. It is recommended to take the licensed shuttles to avoid any danger. The drivers of these boats are familiar with the area and are aware of its perils.

Little Skellig from Skellig Michael

How to get to Skellig Michael 

The following is a list of the  locations from where you can board a boat to reach Skellig Michael:

• Valentia Island 

Depending on where you boarded the shuttle and the weather, the journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The trip to Skellig Michael costs roughly 50€ or more per person, however the island is free to visit once you arrive. 

• Eoin Walsh, Skellig Boat Trips , +353 87 2833522
• Dermot Walsh +353 86 8339549
• Lavelles +353 66 9476124
• Dan & Donal McCrohan +353 87 2399741
• Casey’s Boat Trips   +353 87 2395470
• Skelligs Rock   +353 87 2362344
• Joe Roddy & Sons +353 87 1209924
• Murphy Sea Cruise + 353 87 6451909
• Waterville Boats +353 87 2202355
• Feehan Boats   +353 86 417 6612)

From mid-May until the end-of-September, Skellig Michael is accessible to those who want to visit. The schedules differ depending on the companies that have been picked.

The trip usually begins at 10:00 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. You are welcome to have your picnic here, but please don’t leave anything behind because it is a protected area.

The island may be small, but here’s how you can make the most of your visit to Skellig Michael: 

• Conquer the 600+ steps to the summit of Skellig Michael.   
• Observe orange-billed puffins, cormorants, and the 70,000-strong gannet colony on Little Skellig – from your boat or Skellig Michael.   
• Watch out for the seals, minke whales, and dolphins which can also be spotted from Skellig Michael.   
• Visit the monastic village that dates as far back as the 6th century.   
• See the Beehive Huts built by monks.  
• Get up close to the Star Wars sites.   
• Have a picnic! Most tours allow at least 2 hours to explore the site. Bring some food, water, and a mat, and have a picnic with the stunning views around you. 

If you are planning to make that ultimate bucket list trip to Skellig Michael, here are some things to consider: 

• Keep in mind that Skellig Michael boat tours are only available during certain times of the year, specifically between May 15 and October 2. Arrive before August 1st if you want to watch the puffins.  
• Plan and purchase your tickets early. Tickets will sell out far in advance during the warm months of June through August . Contact the boat operators at least two months in advance of your trip to be safe.  
• Landing on Skellig Michael is permitted only by certified boat operators. If you want to be safe and have a hassle-free journey, call one of these legitimate operators.  
• If landing tickets for Skellig Michael are sold out, you can still experience the island and see it onboard a boat. Many boat companies offer tours that circle Skellig Michael and Little Skellig without ever setting foot on the island.  

Skellig Michael

Hotels Near Skellig Michael

There’s no accommodation on the island and unless you’re an academics, researchers or archaelogist, the Office of Public Works that oversee the restoration of the island doesn’t tourists to stay overnight.

8.5 Very Good

Facilities : Free. parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant and room service

Nearby Attractions : O’Connell, Memorial Church, Heatherhill Stables, Skellig Experience Centre, Mountain Geokaun, Fogher Cliffs

On V alentia Island , off Ireland’s west coast, the 18th-century Royal Valentia Hotel offers lodgings in a breathtaking environment. Regular boat cruises to the Skellig Islands are also available from the Hotel.

Rooms at the hotel have views of the island. Each en suite room provides tea and coffee making facilities as well as a television. The hotel has a spacious breakfast area, a games room, and a restaurant that serves both bar food and main courses.

Check the latest rates here.  

Facilities : Free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant and bar

Nearby Attractions : Skellig Experience Centre, Heatherhill Stables, Beehive Cells

The Moorings Guesthouse , which offers magnificent accommodations with private bathrooms. It overlooks Portmagee’s busy waterfront and is just a 30-second walk from the pier. Hot tubs and king-size beds are available in some of the rooms.

Moorings Restaurant offers weekly specialties, outstanding Irish beef, and locally grown vegetables in addition to freshly caught fish from Portmagee’s port. The on-site pub offers award-winning cuisine as well as live traditional Irish music and dance .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

Glamping In Kerry - 7 Best Glamping Sites In Kerry - Ireland Travel Guides

Saturday 24th of July 2021

[…] Kerry is a haven for nature lovers. From the massive Killarney National Park and its lakes to the stunning Skelligs, glamping in Kerry is guaranteed to be filled with unforgettable […]

Best Islands In Ireland To Visit - Ireland Travel Guides

[…] islands are both world-famous, but Skellig Michael is more known throughout the world of archaeology as the site of a well-preserved monastic outpost […]

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Welcome to The Skellig Experience Visitors Centre

Situated in the beautiful South West Coast of Ireland The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre is located on Valentia Island just off the famous Ring of Kerry. The Visitor Centre has been a famous landmark in Valentia for over 25 years and with spectacular scenery on our side we want to give you an experience like no other.

Dedicated to the UNESCO World Heritage site Skellig Michael our visitor centre brings the magic and mystery of these famous rocks to you through graphics, film presentation, models, exhibition items, reconstruction and the sound of sea birds and lighthouse keeper ship to shore communication.

Skellig Michael Sea Cruise

Our Skellig Michael Sea Cruise is the perfect way to enjoy the spectacular views of the famous Skellig Islands while remaining seated.

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.

The Ultimate Skellig Coast Tour

This tour is the Ultimate experience when seeking the up close and interactive option for exploring the Skellig Islands and Skellig Coast story stretching back to the 6th century.

THE SKELLIG EXPERIENCE

Experience the different aspects of the offshore Skellig islands while remaining on dry land, in a custom built, prize winning building located right on the waterfront in Valentia, County Kerry!

Upcoming Events

Our exhibitions.

Take a sneak peak inside our Exhibition to see some of what The Skellig Experience has to offer.

What clients say

Informative Tour

This is a very interesting visitor centre with fantastic information about the Skelligs. There are also great models and a short film to give an insight into life on the islands.

Fantastic!!!!

I visited the skellig experience on the 29th of July. Wow, was I pleasantly surprised the moment I walked in then door we were greeted by the friendly staff.

Family Trip

We had a wonderful trip out to the Skellig Islands with the Skellig Experience. Everyone working in the venue were so nice and professional. Nothing was a problem and very friendly towards our young kids.

A day in Heaven!

We had a magical day. Everything was perfect, the team on the land and on the boat, the gorgeous Skellig Islands and the weather! Ihighly recommand that experience it is really worth it!

laurenceestival123

Fantasy Island

The whole family really enjoyed the boat trip, despite not being able to land on the island. It was great to see the visitor centre before and get all the background.

Skellig history

Lovely centre giving the history of the islands and how life was lived there. Audio film goes into details of life and how they survived isolated on this island.

Geraldine O

Amazing journey to Skellig

An amazing ride out across the swelling Atlantic to visit Skellig Michael. It's not for the faint at heart, or those who get easily sea sick. But expertly captained and truly an amazing sight to behold. A very unique experience.

bryanwS1731QS

Wonderful experience

Got it for my parents and they absolutely loved it Well worth the money Will definitely be going myself soon

Visit these offshore Skellig Islands and climb to the monastic site some 200 metres above the sea

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Experience for yourself the breathtaking beauty of the Skellig Islands.

Book with Paul Devane & Skellig Michael Cruises and experience the tour of a lifetime!!

Non-Landing Tours operate from March 18th 2024 Click here to Book your tour

Our Modern 9 boat fleet allows us to cater for groups – bus tours, school tours, disabled, etc…

Skellig Michael Tours 2024

Skellig Michael Tours  2024 Booking Update:

Click  bookings page here  .

We are a family owned business based in the beautiful fishing village of Portmagee .

Skellig Michael  Cruises offer two types of boat tour to the Skellig Islands .

A Skellig Islands Tour which goes around both islands, and a Skellig Michael Landing Tour where you get off the boat and climb to the Monastery and can explore Skellig Michael and its wildlife / Birdlife

Secure Online Booking or visit Our Booking Office in Portmagee Marina car park

Skellig Islands Eco Cruise

It is also more affordable for individuals and families at less than half the price of the landing tour.

Our Skellig Islands tour lasts approx. 2.5 hours.

The Skellig Islands Tour is suitable all ages and abilities especially for families with children , disabled , also people who are unable to climb 640 steps to the monastery.

Enhance your once in a lifetime tour and let us take your picture in front of this amazing Unesco World Heritage site (Skellig MIchael) or do a selfie. (You can see a sample of such pictures  in our gallery . )

Your journey will take you first to the small Skelligs where you see the second largest colony of gannets in the world and see lots of wildlife such as seals etc… You then continue on to Skellig Michael where you get up close to see the birds, the bee hive huts, the monastery, the light house at the back and the steps the monks carved into the rock in the 5 th Century. This was the old path taken by the Monks – something you do not always get to see on the landing tour.

Skellig Michael Landing Tours

The Skellig Michael Landing Tou r departs daily from Portmagee marina between 8:00am and 10:00am. Landing time slots on  Skellig Michael operates on a rota basis therefore departure times change weekly.  Exact departure times will be emailed in advance. It takes approximately 1 hour to reach Skellig Michael.

You are allowed 2.5 hours on the island to climb the 640 steps to the top and explore the island.

On Skellig Michael there is a tour guide to tell you all there is to know about the island, especially the history of Skellig Michael and lots of information on the birds that live there. They will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

For more information on the Skellig Islands check our website pages The History of Skellig Michael and More Skelligs articles 

At Skellig Michael Cruises we cater for disabled visitors needing wheelchair access as passengers can board the boat via a door at the back.

We also have shelter from the weather, rain gear is available for all passengers and life jackets must be worn while on board. With seating inside for all passengers as well as a toilet on board.

S tar Wars Filming

The force is getting stronger in Skellig Michael after tourism officials predicted rise in visitors wishing to visit the isolated Unesco world heritage site of Skellig Michael & the Skellig Islands.

This could bring a welcome boost to boat  tour operators, who could be set to enjoy the busiest-ever tourist season, thanks to the recent filming of Star Wars movie “The Force Awakens”

Legendary Wookiee warrior Chewbacca visits Skellig Michael Cruises Read more here

What a trip!

Both my husband and I took separate trips on the boats to go around the Skelligs – one of us was needed to look after our wee terrier – even though he was invited to go on the trip too! It was just marvellous, seeing a minke whale and dolphins on the way there – magical….the skipper was so interesting, too. A must.

” I would like to thank Brendan and Paul Devane of Skellig Michael Cruises for a fantastic voyage. It was luxury all the way.”

Great tour around Skellig Islands

We went out with Christy of Paul Devane boats. Christy was great Skipper, Gave us lots of detail info re both islands. He was very attentive to all passengers. He was very Safety conscious. Showed us Dolphins on the way out.

” The cruise around Skellig Michael is a fantastic experience and perfect for a family both young and old.”

An “Out of this World” Experience”

After experiencing the 660+ step climb to the top of this mountain, you can truly understand why Abrams selected Skellig Michael for the concluding scenes of “Star Wars VII, The Force Awakens.” Pictures and words cannot adequately describe the shear magnitude or beauty of this special place, nor the journey to reach its summit. The journey is not for the faint of heart, but the final destination will leave you in awe…

“Skellig Michael is one of those unique places that if you close your eyes after you visit it, you will again be transported back there. Do not miss it.”

Skellig Islands

Skellig Islands & Skellig Michael

The larger island  is the site of a Monastic Settlement dating back to the 6 th  century; however, one can find legendary accounts of Skellig Michael which date to pagan times, back in 1400 BC.

St Michael Axis

Skellig Michael is the most westerly sacred site in Europe and it also finishes the line of ancient pilgrimage places in Europe.

This line runs from Ireland through to France, Italty, and Greece and on to Palestine.

The line is known as the Apollo/ St Michael axis, as it is believed to be known thousands of years before Christianity.

More recently Skellig Michael has become known for its appearance in the latest (2016) Star Wars Film “The Force Awakens” filming took place in 2015.

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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Booking Skellig Michael Landing Tours in 2024: The Definitive Guide

Booking a skellig michael landing tour in 2024.

We get it. Booking a landing tour to Skellig Michael is not always easy. Even more so now thanks to its appearance as Ahch-To in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. So, being locals, and knowing this process very well, we’ve put together the Definitive Guide to Booking a Skellig Boat Landing Tour so that you know exactly how to maximise your chances of getting to land on Skellig Michael this year .

So scroll down to learn about:

The Absolute Bare Minimum You Need To Know About Booking A Skellig Michael Landing Tour

The Skellig Michael Landing Tour Season

Skellig Michael Landing Tour Passenger Number Limits

The Influence Of The Weather On Landing

The Full Range Of Skellig Michael Booking Options

How Different Skellig Boats Accept Bookings At Different Times

The Different Departure Points

The Different Boat Types

Skellig Landing Tour Costs and Payment

Tour Cancellations

What If Your Desired Date Is Booked Out

The Need to Book Early

How Booking Later In The Season Helps Your Chances

Why You Should Stay Local

The Absolute Bare Minimum You Need To Know

• Landing Season is generally from mid-May to the end of September. For 2024, the official season is expected to run from May 15th – September 30th. As of the current date, this is subject to confirmation by the OPW, who are in charge of the island. Tours around the island are available outside of this but not landings.
• All bookings are subject to cancellation due to weather .
• Boats land on Skellig Michael , typically, 100 days out of a 130 day season due to adverse weather conditions preventing the boats from landing. Therefore,  landing is not guaranteed .
• A maximum of 180 people per day  can visit, on one of the 15 licensed landing tour boats carrying only 12 passengers each.
• 13 boats leave from the marina at Portmagee. 1 from nearby Ballinskelligs. 1 from Derrynane further down the coast.
• The price is typically 100 euros per person but prices range from 90 euros to 130 euros depending on the operator.
• Each boats handles their own bookings individually. There is no centralised booking system.
• Some boats have online booking systems, some have booking enquiry forms, some only have email and one is only contactable by phone.
• There was unprecedented demand for tickets in 2018 in the wake of Star Wars: The Last Jedi. With only a slight decrease in 2019.
• The earlier you book, the better your chances .
• Boats leave as early as 8:30 am so we strongly advise that you Stay Local and  book accommodation in the local area the night before at the very least.
• If your booking is cancelled because of weather, because of current demand, it’s very unlikely that you’ll be put on a boat later in the week when the weather is fine.
• Cancellations can occur later in the season and free up spaces. Some operators make those dates available on their booking system. Some use waitlists and some fill those spaces with people staying locally or people showing up at the marina in the morning.
• Boats have individual cancellation policies but tend to require at least 3 days notice for a full refund . Check with each individual operator.
• Availability tends to be better later in the season .
• If all the boats appear booked up for your desired date, try contacting a local accommodation provider who may have a long-standing relationship with one of the boat operators.
• Alternatively, there are days when passengers don’t show up at the departure point in time. You can get lucky and get their place. Arrive well before 8 a.m. to maximise your chances.
• If you can’t land on the Skelligs, Eco Tours around the island are available throughout the day from a number of providers .
• There is also the nearby Skellig Experience Interpretive Centre which provides historical context on the islands.
• The Skellig Coast Region is a fantastic destination to visit with plenty to do even if you can’t land on the island itself.

Confident That You Already Know Everything?

Book a Landing Boat Tour To Skellig Michael Book an Eco Boat Tour Around The Skellig Islands

Otherwise, let’s continue…

The Landing Tour Season

The Landing Tour season for 2024 is expected to be from May 15th the 30th of September . This is dictated by the Office of Public Works , the official custodial body for Skellig Michael, who provide guides for landing visitors and oversees conservation and safety on the island. The OPW also decides which boats receive licenses to land.  If you are under the impression that you can land on the island outside of these times, I’m afraid you’re mistaken.

Some operators offer Eco tours from mid-March onwards but these do not land on the island.

The best way to be notified of any season changes is to follow us on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/SkelligMichael_ or https://www.instagram.com/SkelligMichael_

Skellig Michael Passenger Number Limits

In order to protect the integrity of this ancient site, only 15 boats are licensed to carry 12 passengers to the island, once daily. That’s 180 people per day . On an average season, that’s between 15,000 to 17,000 people. By contrast, Petra in Jordan, receives between 500,000 and 900,000 visitors annually and Macchu Piccu in Peru receives about 2.1 million visitors a year. If you land on Skellig Michael, you are among a very, very select club.

The Influence Of The Weather on Landing

Ah, Irish weather. As abruptly capricious as a baby goat, the weather is the final arbiter of whether or not you get to the island, even if you have a booking. The island is 8 nautical miles out into the Atlantic and landings are only possible if the sea is on its best behaviour.

The odds of landing in any particular season vary but, typically, boats expect to land on the island about 100 days out of a possible 130 . Last year it was a little lower, in the low to mid-90s. So, while it can be disappointing, it does make getting to the island all the sweeter.

The Full Range of Skellig Booking Options

We’re seeing a lot of this type of misunderstanding this year.

Skellig Michael landing tours went on sale at 7pm tonight. The website was initially down due to volume of traffic, and now they are all sold out. I'l have to swim out instead. — Noel Hayes (@BigCityBanker) February 21, 2018

This is actually due to people confusing one landing tour operator site’s booking system with a centralised booking system for all the boats. It’s an easy enough mistake to make unless you’re familiar with the booking landscape.

The main thing is that you realise that you have lots of options for booking . Just because you see a site or multiple sites with online booking systems all booked up for the date you want, that doesn’t mean that all the boats in the fleet are already booked out .

Of the 15 landing tour operators most now have dedicated websites but only about 2 or 3 will surface on your average Google search within the first 2 pages of results.

Most have full online booking facilities, where you can see availability ahead of time, secure your booking with a credit card etc. like you have on your average hotel site. Most of those were only added this year.

Other sites use booking enquiry forms which ask you for pertinent information about your bookings – Date, Number of Passengers, Email Address etc – and then submit that information to the boat owner so they can check if they have availability. If they do, they will reply to you to confirm the booking, sometimes asking you to secure the booking with your credit card details.

Of course, we here at SkelligMichael.com provide a convenient enquiry interface to a large number of the Skellig boats as well as providing a list of available Skellig landing tour operators .

Not All Boats Take Bookings At The Same Time

Because there are different boats, with different web sites and different booking systems, not all of the seats are available to be booked at the same time .

Some boats have open booking windows. You can enquire from them at any time. Others have online booking systems with specific dates that they make their seats available. Some in Late January. Some in mid February. So, while one site might appear to be booked out for the season, another boat can be completely empty because it hasn’t opened its booking system yet .

There are two main reasons some boats hold off on taking enquiries:

• Waiting for the Office Of Public Works , who are in charge of the site, to officially announce the date of the starting season
• Waiting for confirmation that they have received a landing license for the year in question.

Last year, the OPW awarded licenses for the years 2020 – 2022 so any delay in operators taking bookings tends to be related to a decision on the opening date.

Of the 15 boats:

• 13 left from Portmagee
• 1 from nearby Ballinskelligs
• 1 from Derrynane, which is slightly farther down the coast.

A small number of the boats also collect passengers from the nearby Skellig Experience , just across the bridge in Valentia.

There are arguments in favour of the different locations.

The trip is fastest from Portmagee and Ballinskelligs. The tour offered from Derrynane is a longer time spent on the boat – about 1 and a half hours of a journey compared to Portmagee’s 45 minutes – but also includes some fishing and food along the way, so it could be argued that it’s not simply a standard Skellig Landing Tour.

Portmagee is your best chance if you just want to show up on the day of a sailing without a booking in the hope that one of boats there has had a cancellation or a free space. But Ballinskelligs and Derrynane will, accordingly, have less competition. Perhaps the best approach is to contact the Ballinskelligs and Derrynane operators directly to let them know you’re available the next day, if needs be, and then take your chances in Portmagee.

The different boat types

For years, all Skellig boats typically looked the same. Typically, 30 foot boats where passengers sit out in the elements. Recently, some operators are differentiating themselves through the provision of larger boats which provide inside seats as well as outside seats which is great on the days that the elements are a little too bracing. From what we understand, there may be an extra charge associate with this with prices rising to 150 euros in some cases.

In general, though, boat quality is largely secondary to just getting on a boat. Any boat that gets you onto the Skelligs is a good boat.

Skellig Landing Boat Tour Cost and Payment

Traditionally, an email exchange between you and the boat owner would have been sufficient to secure your place. That still is the case for some of the operators but, increasingly, because of the huge demand, booking systems which accept credit cards are being used to secure your place. This is so that boat owners are covered if passengers who have booked fail to show up and leave them with empty seats. In general, though, it is still advisable to bring enough cash with you on the morning of your trip to cover the cost of the tour in case the operator is simply holding your credit card details rather than charging them. Some operators prefer to be paid in cash. You also need to be aware that there are no ATMs in Portmagee so make a withdrawal in Cahirciveen if you need to. A quick email to your boat operator will clarify this.

The price for most boats is expected to be 120 euros per person this year. But, as mentioned, some boats are charging as high as 150 euros per person.

Landing Tour Cancellations

Plans change and you can generally cancel your landing tour up to 3 days before the trip without penalty . It’s important to let the operator know well in advance so that they can free up the spaces for other people trying to get to the island. Refund policies vary but, in general, factor in at last 3 days ahead but verify this with the Skellig Boat owner you booked with.

As mentioned previously, this works both ways. Skellig boat captains will cancel the landing trip if the conditions are deemed to be too unsafe for landing. You should expect a full refund in this instance .

What If The Landing Date I Want Is Already Booked Out?

This is an unfortunate fact of life, given the extraordinary demand and the small number of places. But don’t despair. Some operators make cancelled dates available on their booking system . Some use waitlists and some fill those spaces with people staying locally or people showing up at the marina in the morning. This last option is a high-risk strategy since you may not be alone in your desire to get a free seat that morning. But it is worth a shot. Again, we advise people to Stay Local in order to maximise their chance of landing.

You also have the option of doing a Skellig Michael Eco Tour or Cruise with one of the many Skellig Michael Eco Tour operators providing the service both before and during the Landing Season.

Here’s a preview of what is a spectacular trip in its own right.

Tip: Book Early

Like any sought after event, the earlier you book, the better . It used to be that you could show up at the marina in the morning and you’d have a pretty good shot at getting on a boat. Those days are behind us. Thanks to Star Wars and, in particular, The Last Jedi, we saw unprecedented demand for landing tour spaces in 2018 with some slightly increased availability in 2019 . You still have the odd cancellation freeing up some spots from time to time but it’s a rarer and rarer occurrence.

Tip: Book Later In The Season

Having analysed the data, certain peak periods attract the most interest – July and August, for example. But September is probably the best time of the year to try to get a booking if you’re a little late to the game. If you can get the time off and aren’t hampered by school schedules, it’s a great time to visit with the light being particularly photogenic and giving incredible sunsets. On the downside, the puffins will have already left at that stage.

Tip: Stay Locally In The Area

Look, we understand that, for most people, you want to come to Ireland get as much done and seen as you possibly can. And you might be tempted to try to squeeze your trip to Skellig into a half-day and then back on the road again so you can tick off the locations on your itinerary. But, this is a bad idea for a number of reasons.

• If you don’t have a car and were planning on using public transport, there are no public transport options to Portmagee that will get you there in time for the landing tour in the morning unless you arrive the day before.
• If you’re staying somewhere outside the local area, like Killarney or Dingle, driving down to Portmagee in the morning is an unnecessary risk . You are talking about getting up at 6 am and risking getting caught behind slow moving Ring Of Kerry traffic on your way here. It’s a bad way to start your day and not how you want to start the trip out to this amazing location. Boat owners are also a lot happier knowing you’re close by.
• Boat operators will do their best to wait for you but if they tell you to be at the quay by a certain time, and you’re not there, rest assured that there are plenty of people lined up at the marina waiting to take your place.

Secondly, and more importantly for those who do not have a booking secured, many of the local accommodation providers have long-standing relationships with the boatmen who may be keeping places for guests staying locally that they are not making available online .

Thirdly, you miss out on spending time with us on the beautiful Skellig Coast. We know that we’re not as famous as some other Irish destinations that you’ve heard of but that’s a great reason to come here. We have some of the most unspoilt natural beauty in Ireland, fantastic hiking and walking all over the local area, and numerous attractions such as the Skellig Experience interpretive centre , Kerry Cliffs , Bray Head Wild Atlantic Way Signature Viewing Point , Skellig Chocolates and, in the Skellig Ring Drive, some of the most naturally charismatic and beautiful coastline, according to The Lonely Planet , who named it one of the top 10 regions in the world to visit in 2017. Check out this video for an overview.

So, we thoroughly recommend staying the night before your trip , at the very least, in the local area. This would include:

• Ballinskelligs
• Cahirciveen

And, if you’re taking the boat from Derrynane:

• Caherdaniel

That’s It

That covers pretty much everything you need to know. We’ll be adding to this guide over time if anything relevant arises.

If you want, you can make a Booking Enquiry about a Skellig Michael Landing Tour or check out a List of Licensed Skellig Landing Tour Operators . Or, alternatively, enquire about a Skellig Michael Eco Tour .

Be sure to follow us on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/SkelligMichael_ to stay up-to-date with any Skellig-related news or new content from us.

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.

DISCOVER THE SKELLIGS.

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 then the famous Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw when he wrote to Frederick Jackson: “Parknasilla Hotel, Sneem, 18th September 1910.”

“The most fantastic and impossible rock in the world: Skellig Michael… where in the south west gales spray knocks stones out of the lighthouse keeper’s house… the Skelligs are pinnacled, crocheted, spired, arched, caverned, minareted; and these gothic extravagances are not curiosities of the islands:they are the islands: there is nothing else.The rest of the cathedral may be under the sea for all I know …An incredible, impossible, mad place…I tell you the thing does not belong to any world that you and I have lived and worked in: it is part of our dream world.”

“This was a brilliant experience and nothing will ever compare to the sight of Skellig Michael appearing above the mist as we headed into the fresh Atlantic from the calm waters of Portmagee harbour.”

-Farranboy62, Dublin

“We travelled to the Skelligs with Sea Quest and they could not have been more helpful. From the well-run and friendly first approach on the quayside to leaving them 4 hours later nothing could have been improved. The Captain was extremely personable and told us things of interest throughout the trip.”

“The islands are even more remarkable up close and in person than they are in pictures and movies. We took a boat ride around them, and it was the most rewarding investment of time we have had here in Ireland.”

-Charles M, UK

“If there is a chance still to go by boat to Skellig, this should definitely be used. Even the rocks from the ship is incredibly impressive, the monastery huts and the stairs are clearly visible. Cost: €35 per person. Highly recommended!!”

-Uetliberg, Switzerland

BOOK A SKELLIGS TRIP: ECO/LANDING

DISCOVER HISTORY

EXPLORE WILDLIFE

RE-ENACT STAR WARS

How to Get to Skellig Michael! Tips for visiting The Skellig Islands, Kerry, Ireland

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Skellig Michael exploded on to the Irish tourism scene with its starring role in The Force Awakens, the latest Star Wars movie, and it’s every bit as amazing as it looks on the big screen! The UNESCO World Heritage Site is breathtakingly beautiful and rugged and an absolute Kerry hidden gem. Here’s our guide on how to get to Skellig Michael and our top tips for your visit!

Where to Stay When Visiting Skellig Michael

Visitor boats to Skellig Michael depart from the quaint fishing village of Portmagee in Kerry. As the boats leave for the Skelligs early in the morning we recommend staying in Portmagee the night before so the boats are only a short stroll away the next morning. Portmagee is a beautiful little Irish fishing village, with some really awesome Irish B&B’s. Our favourites are:

• The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant: This luxury guesthouse is located opposite the actual Skellig boat mooring so you can’t get any closer for your trip. The food is phenomenal, the atmosphere is always relaxed and the Guinness is pretty great too!  – Click here for best prices!
• The Waterfront B&B: This relaxed, family run B&B has beautiful views across the harbour and onto Valentia Island and is a short walk from the harbour – Click here for best prices!
• Shealane Country House Bed and Breakfast: If you don’t fancy staying in Portmagee this lovely Irish B&B is located a short walk across the bridge on Valentia Island – Click here for best prices!

Click here for the best Portmagee Hotel

The Skellig Islands

The Skelligs are two small rocky islands situated off the coast of Kerry and are made up of Skellig Michael and Little Skellig.  Little Skellig  is the smaller of the two islands and is home to over 25,000 sea birds, while the larger Skellig Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated as a result of its well preserved monastic outpost of the early Christian period. The island also featured prominently in the latest installment of the Star Wars movies, The Force Awakens!

Skellig Michael

How to get to Skellig Michael

• Eoin Walsh, Skellig Boat Trips (skelligboattrips.ie, +353 87 2833522)
• Dermot Walsh (+353 86 8339549)
• Lavelles (+353 66 9476124)
• Dan & Donal McCrohan: (+353 87 2399741)
• Casey’s Boat Trips (skelligislands.com, +353 87 2395470)
• Skelligs Rock (skelligsrock.com, +353 87 2362344)
• Joe Roddy & Sons (skelligstrips.com, +353 87 1209924
• Murphy Sea Cruise (esatclear.ie/~skelligsrock/,  + 353 87 6451909)
• Waterville Boats (+353 87 2202355)

Ballingskelligs

• Feehan Boats (skelligboats.com, +353 86 417 6612)

Catherdaniel

• John O’Shea Boats (+353 87 6898431)

Tips for visiting Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is outstanding but there are two things to remember: the infamous Irish weather and the rugged terrain! Here’s our tips for surviving a day at the Skelligs:

• Choose the right boat trip. Some boats circle the Islands and a few stop at Skellig Michael.
• Book in advance. Only 180 people are permitted to visit the Island on any given day. A limited number of boats depart for the Skelligs and they do book up at popular times. The trips are even more popular since the Star Wars movie screened.
• The trips are weather permitting and the boats will not depart if conditions are too harsh. Our accommodation was a 20 minute trip from Portmagee, where our trip departed, and we checked in with our company the day before to see if the boat was likely to sail before we made the trip over.
• Depending on where you depart from, the boat trip is at least 45 minutes so sea sickness is definitely possible! We sailed on a relatively calm day and everyone on our boat was fine although the journey was slightly bumpy.
• Bring warm clothes and wet gear. The weather can change quickly and, even on a nice day, a 45 minute journey at sea can be quite chilly. Most of the boats keep wax jackets for when the rain or waves come knocking!
• Wear walking boots. The pictures say it all! The terrain is rugged and steep.

• Mind your step! Due to preservation issues there are very view handrails on Skellig Michael and the steps are exposed to sheer drops. Bring a stick if it helps and pay attention to the path.

• Pack a picnic and water. Trips that stop at Skellig Michael last for at least 5 hours and there’s no doubt the climb works up an appetite and a thirst!
• Have your camera at the ready. Skellig Micahel is one of the most stunning places we’ve visited!
• Go to the bathroom before you board the boat. There are no bathrooms on Skellig Michael. You have been warned!

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SKELLIG MICHAEL ECO BOAT TOUR BOAT TOURS TO THE SKELLIG ISLANDS

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 . It is very important that we are able to contact you on the phone number and email address you provide when you make a booking. Skellig Michael is 12km out in the Atlantic Ocean so the tours are very dependent on the sea conditions  and we will need to keep you updated if the departure time changes or if a tour is cancelled.

How to book the Skellig Michael Eco Boat Tour?

We take all bookings online on our website. Go directly to the booking page by clicking on the button below. You can add your details to the waitlist if the date you are looking for is full.

ABOUT THE SKELLIG MICHAEL ECO TOUR

How long is the boat trip to skellig michael.

The ferry crossing to Skellig Michael takes about 50 minutes.

How much time does the boat spend around the Skellig Islands ?

The boat stays at Skellig Michael and Little Skelligs Nature Reserve for approximately 45 minutes getting right up close to islands before returning back to the marina in Portmagee.

How many trips per day are there for the Skellig Michael Eco Tour?

There are multiple departures per day for the Skellig Michael Eco Tour. See the booking page for times and to make a booking.

What months of the year can I do the Skellig Michael Eco Tour?

The Skellig Michael Eco Tour normally runs from April to September.

Are children allowed on the Skellig Michael Eco Tour?

We allow children of all ages on the Skellig Michael Eco Tour.

How much is the Skellig Michael Eco Tour?

Adults: €45 Students / Seniors: €42 Children: €37  Family: €150 (2 adults + 2 children) Each additional child:  €30

Plus Booking Fee

What other options are there instead of the Skellig Michael Eco tour?

The Audio Visual Boat Tour is an interactive experience and is both educational and fun. An alternative to our Skellig Michael Tours, the boat does not venture out as far as Skellig Michael, instead staying in the relative calm between the islands and inlets of the Portmagee Channel and Valentia sound. The tour departs from Portmagee Marina in Co. Kerry and takes about 1 hour. The Audio Visual Tour is not available during the 2023 season.

What to bring on the Skellig Michael Eco Tour?

In Ireland, the weather is very unpredictable and we can get all the seasons in one day. Wear warm comfortable clothing and bring rain wear (jacket and trousers). It is also advisable to bring some drinking water with you. This is not a harbour cruise and involves venturing 8 miles out into the Atlantic Ocean where the sea is not always calm. If you suffer from motion sickness consider taking medication before the trip and avoid eating for a couple of hours beforehand. 

Checklist for the Skellig Eco Tour

Wear warm comfortable clothing

Rain wear – jacket and trousers

Drinking water

Sunscreen (we might get lucky)

The most fantastic and impossible rock in the world: Skellig Michael

George Bernard Shaw, the nobel prize winning author and playwright, visited Skellig Michael in 1910. He was so in awe of what he encountered that he wrote to a friend describing the experience. “…the most fantastic and impossible rock in the world: Skellig Michael, or the Great Skellig, where in south west gales the spray knocks stones out of the lighthouse keeper’s house, 160 feet above calm sea level. There is a little Skellig covered with gannets – white with them (and their guano) – covered with screaming crowds of them… both the Skelligs are pinnacled, crocketed, spired, arched, caverned, minaretted; and these gothic extravagances are not curiosities of the islands: they are the islands: there is nothing else. The rest of the cathedral may be under the sea for all I know: there are 90 fathoms by the chart, out of which the Great Skellig rushes up 700 feet so suddenly that you have to go straight up stairs to the top – over 600 steps. And at the top amazing beehives of flat rubble stones, each overlapping the one below until the circle meets in a dome – cells, oratories, churches, and outside them cemeteries, wells, crosses, all clustering like shells on a prodigious rock pinnacle, with precipices sheer down on every hand, and lodged on the projecting stones overhanging the deep huge stone coffins made apparently by giants, and dropped there God knows how. An incredible, impossible, mad place… I tell you the thing does not belong to any world that you and I have lived and worked in: it is part of our dream world…” From Shaw’s letter to Frederick Jackson: Parknasilla Hotel, Sneem, 18th September 1910.

WHAT TIME DO I ARRIVE FOR THE TOUR?

You need to arrive at the marina in Portmagee no later than 15 minutes before your tour is due to depart. Ask for BRENDAN CASEY at the marina. You should allow yourself enough time to find parking and prepare yourself for the tour. Parking is free of charge.

Recent Reviews on Google “Would 100% recommend this on a checklist of “must do” items in Ireland.” “Once in a lifetime experience you will never forget.” “ Amazing boat tour by a very experienced and knowledgeable captain”

WILDLIFE ON SKELLIGS

There is an abundance of marine and bird life that on and around the Skellig Islands. Thousands of gannets, puffins, guillemots and razorbills come here to nest. Humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins and grey seals are never very far away.

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.

What happens if my Skellig Michael Eco Tour is cancelled due to sea and weather conditions?

We can reschedule you on a Skellig Michael Eco tour later on the same day or on the next day if the sea conditions have improved. Alternatively, we can book you on the next available Audio Visual (AV) Boat Tour and refund the difference in price back to your card. If you do not wish to reschedule your eco tour or go on the AV Boat Tour you will receive a full refund.

CANCELLATION POLICY FOR THE SKELLIG MICHAEL ECO TOUR

Cancellation Policy for Bookings of less than 10 people A cancellation fee of €2 per person applies for cancellations made 2 days or more in advance. No refunds will be given for cancellations made less than 2 days in advance.   Cancellation Policy for Group Bookings of 10 people or more A cancellation fee of €2 per person applies for cancellations made 7 days or more in advance. No refunds will be given for cancellations made less than 7 days in advance. Cancellation Policy if we have to cancel the tour because of the sea/weather conditions You will receive a full refund if we have to cancel the tour for any reason including sea/weather conditions. 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

We may need to change the departure time and we will give you advance notice of this. If your tour is delayed by more than 1 hour you will have the option of a full refund.

We may need to cancel a trip because of adverse sea and weather conditions. If we need to cancel a tour you will have the option of receiving a full refund or being rescheduled on the next available Eco Tour when the weather/sea conditions improve. You can also choose to book on the next available Audio Visual (AV) Boat Tour.

We reserve the right to cancel a trip for any reason including but not limited to adverse sea and weather conditions, engine failure etc. 

It is very important that we can reach you at the contact information you provide us with (ie. Phone Number and Email) because the tours are very dependent on the sea conditions and we will need to keep you updated if the departure time changes or if the tour is cancelled.

Skellig Michael: Ireland’s Most Striking Destination

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I hate to say it, but after nearly four years of near-constant travel, it’s becoming harder and harder for me to be impressed. Of course, I love places and I appreciate them and I enjoy almost every place I visit — but being knocked over in marvel, so impressed I can barely speak? That’s incredibly special and incredibly rare.

Which is why Skellig Michael, Ireland, was so memorable.

Skellig Michael is a rocky island off the southwest coast of Ireland that was home to monks for several centuries. It’s one of the most visually striking places I’ve ever visited, even on a cloudy day, and it’s also

And it’s VERY hard to get here. The choppy waters make it extraordinarily difficult to land, which makes a trip here all the more special.

Here’s everything I love about Skellig Michael.

Table of Contents

How to Visit Skellig Michael, Ireland

Getting to Skellig Michael is not an easy journey — due to rough seas and a challenging spot to moor, boats are able to make the trip only about half the time. If you get the chance, you must take it.

I had one chance to make it to Skellig Michael — which, in retrospect, was poor planning on my part — but I lucked out. On the morning I was to head out, I called the captain whose boat I had booked, Eoin Walsh, and he verified that although it was a borderline day, it was still safe to go.

The Boat Ride to Skellig Michael

There aren’t ferries to Skellig Michael — you need to book a spot on a private boat, and most transfers cost €50 ($68 USD).

I wasn’t alone on Eoin’s boat, though — my fellow passengers were three very friendly fifty-something men from County Cork who had been friends since high school.

“We’ve always wanted to go to Skellig Michael, but it was so close by, we always thought we’d go someday. And it took us this long!” one of the men told me.

“I completely get that,” I told them. “I’m from Massachusetts, but I still haven’t been to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket.”

“Martha’s Vineyard?” one of the others asked. “I’ve been there.”

“Exactly,” I replied.

Eoin handed me some photos of Skellig Michael dating back decades. And that was the only time I looked down, because this was an extremely rough 90-minute journey to the island. I held tightly to a tire on the edge and wondered if we were going to be washed overboard!

The men were fairly nonplussed, and Eoin was calm. This was the wild north Atlantic; conditions were normal.

We first passed Small Skellig, the tiny island next door that is known for being a major ornithological habitat, and soon Skellig Michael came into full, beautiful focus.

We docked and scrambled up the landing to the base of the island.

Eoin wasn’t coming with us — we had a few hours to explore on our own and he’d wait in the boat until we got back.

I couldn’t imagine staying on those crazy waves for so long, but if you’re a sailor, I’m sure it’s nothing at all.

Skellig Michael’s Monastery

I’m here. I’m here. I’m here!!!  I can’t remember the last time I was so excited to visit a new destination.

I had made it to Skellig Michael.

But here came the tough part: 600 steps to climb, most of them jagged slabs of rock.

I started slowly and continued at a snail’s pace, keeping my eye on every step. Speed doesn’t help you here. When I needed a break, I simply stopped — at times there was literally nowhere to stop but the steps themselves, as you’d pitch over the side of a cliff.

The scenery became more and more beautiful the further I climbed.

As you can tell by the photos, Skellig Michael is an exceptionally difficult place for people with mobility difficulties.

I also don’t think it’s a place for kids. It’s just too easy to fall off the path. I personally wouldn’t bring kids under the age of 12 — and even then, only well-behaved 12-year-olds who will understand the dangers and listen to you, do exactly as you say, and not go off on their own.

It’s good to know that there’s a helicopter pad on the island, just in case.

Soon I had reached a big grassy clearing with plenty of space to sit down and enjoy the sandwich that I had purchased on the mainland. There is nowhere to buy food on Skellig Michael — nor are there even toilets on the island!

The final climb led to the monastery.

The Monks Who Chose Life on Skellig Michael

Monks first came to Skellig Michael in the seventh century and they remained here until the thirteenth century.

Very little is known about the monks. They built six beehive-shaped huts and two boat-shaped oratories, plus walls and a small graveyard. They planted gardens and lived off the land: seabirds, fish, possibly sheep and goats. They were invaded several times by Vikings and ended up baptizing at least one Viking.

At the time, Skellig Michael was not only remote and inhospitable, but it was “the end of the world” as far as the Irish knew. The monks may have chosen that destination to be closer to God, or closer to Satan, so they could defend the rest of the world.

At the Skellig Experience, a museum on Valentia Island, an exhibit reads:

Was the back breaking work of monastery building a task of penance? Or was it a joyous, fulfilling experience of marrying hands, skill, rock and fine design? Did the imposed isolation by a stormy sea constitute an indefinite prison sentence to be endured bravely and silently? Or was it a soul-thrilling experience to witness the massive power of ocean waves, and the unyielding strength of Skellig rock? Was it a dulling, stupefying monotony to hear and see nothing but the endless wheeling, screaming seabirds all day? Or was the word of God in every flimsy feather and every trembling wingtip?

Were they motivated by joy, or by asceticism?

When did they build the graveyard? Right away, or did they wait for someone to die first?

Did they gather these same flowers?

Did they sit back and declare that none of God’s creations could ever be as beautiful as this island?

We will never know the answers. But I loved wondering.

This monastery is the reason why Skellig Michael was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Today, Ireland has three sites, and as much as I enjoyed Bru na Boinne and loved Giant’s Causeway, neither of them could compare to Skellig Michael.

After descending from the monastery to the big grassy area, I had my sandwich and wished I could get a particular photo I had seen — a photo of the staircase leading to the monastery with Small Skellig in the background.

By this point, very few people were left on this part of the island, making it an ideal time to take the picture. I scrambled up the path on the other peak and edged out to the side until Small Skellig appeared perfectly in the background:

Was it worth it?

Yes. It was SO worth it.

(Though please don’t do this unless you’re comfortable climbing! This part of the island is just a rough path, rather than a staircase, and climbing down is much more difficult than climbing up!)

And soon enough, it was almost time to meet Eoin at the boat. I climbed down the 600 steps as carefully as I climbed up them.

Back to the Mainland

As I met Eoin at the dock, I saw first-hand how this had almost been a no-go day. The boat rose and fell next to the steps and even though it seemed safe every 10 seconds or so, Eoin wouldn’t let me step on for a full minute, until a particularly boisterous wave gave him the signal to pull me on board.

How on Earth did the monks land here?! I thought, a sentiment shared by my three companions from County Cork. It was so difficult to land in modern times — how did they land on the rock in the middle of the stormy Atlantic with only ancient technology!

What an incredible test to live their chosen life.

We took a quick spin around Small Skellig, home to more than 27,000 pairs of birds, then set off on the 90-minute journey back to the mainland.

Planning a Trip to Skellig Michael

I was lucky that our boat was able to land on Skellig Michael on my first day there, but you shouldn’t take the risk I did.  Instead, rent a car and plan to spend a few days based in pretty Portmagee. Go to Skellig Michael when the conditions allow you to, and on the other days, there’s quite a lot to see in the immediate area, on Valentia Island, and throughout the Ring of Kerry.

One nice thing about Portmagee is that the roads are too narrow for big buses, so you don’t see any of the huge coach tours that dwarf the rest of County Kerry. Portmagee attracts intentional visitors, which is something you can’t say for, say, Killarney.

I stayed at the most delightful guesthouse — The Moorings . It’s a cozy place on the waterfront with nice rooms and incredibly soft sheets, and it has both a restaurant and a casual pub. The rates (starting at €60-70 ($81-95 USD) per night) are incredibly reasonable for this part of the world.

Gerard, who owns The Moorings with his wife, Patricia, offered to join me for dinner (and I nearly kissed him, I was so thankful! As a solo traveler, I eat alone all the time and while I don’t totally hate it, it’s so nice for someone to offer to join you once in a while!). 

If there’s any massively true stereotype about Ireland, it’s that the Irish are incredibly friendly and full of stories, their lilting voices like music. Gerard certainly fit this criteria.

“Is all your food local?” I asked him as I dined on astoundingly fresh oysters and scallops.

Gerard furrowed his brow for a moment. “Everything…except the mussels,” he told me. “We get those 15 minutes away.”

He said this without a trace of irony and was startled when I burst out laughing.

Staying in such a cozy guesthouse, eating the best scallops of my life, enjoying great conversation with a new friend — it was the perfect coda to a wild day journeying to and exploring Skellig Michael.

Days like this are what you dream of when you plan a trip to Ireland, and I’m so glad I got to experience a day like this on my trip.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, plan it around Skellig Michael.

I’m completely serious.

Skellig Michael went far beyond my expectations and was the highlight of my trip to Ireland. If you’re interested in visiting, I recommend that you make it a high priority and build out the rest of your trip from there.

This is one of the most impressive sights I have ever seen, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Like Skellig Michael? You might also like:

The Wild Raw Beauty of Shetland

The Dark Side of the Scottish Highlands

Fun and Culture in Limerick, Ireland

Skellig Michael Essential Info

Most trips to Skellig Michael, which are very choppy and take 90 minutes each way, are priced at €50 ($68 USD). I visited Skellig Michael with Eoin Walsh, whom I recommend. The website has been down for awhile, so I’m not sure whether he is still in business.

There are no toilets on Skellig Michael , nor is there anywhere to buy food, so buy food in town beforehand. Due to the sharp cliffs and rough stairs, Skellig Michael is not for children or people with mobility challenges.

The Skellig Experience , a museum on Valentia Island, just across from Portmagee, is well worth a visit for learning about the history of the island. Tickets are €5 ($7) for adults. This is a good place to buy sandwiches and drinks to take to Skellig Michael.

Rates at The Moorings start at €60 ($81 USD) per night in low season and €70 ($95 USD) per night in high season. Find more hotels in Portmagee here.

Remember to buy travel insurance before you visit Ireland — it could save your life or your finances! I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Ireland.

Many thanks to Ireland Tourism for hosting my trip to Skellig Michael and my night in Portmagee. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Clodagh Finn: It can be lonely living on Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael has 8,000 pairs of puffins. Picture: Catherine Merrigan

The story of the early Christian monks who built a monastery on Skellig Michael, a rocky crag jutting out of the Atlantic some 12km off the coast of Co Kerry, is brought to life vividly by three caretaker-guides.

The fact that they all happen to be women, working in a place once solely inhabited by men, is a source of joy to this column, although the singularity of this edge-of-the-world wonder goes far beyond such surface observations.

That is evident just listening to Catherine Merrigan, Maggie Keane, and Jean Burtchaell, the Office of Public Works (OPW) guides who safely corral visitors up the 600 steps to the monastic remains. These “records of stone” bear witness to the faith, courage and incredible hardiness of the monks who lived here from the 6th to the 12th century.

Could they ever have imagined that their remote place of prayer would feature as Luke Skywalker’s island sanctuary in Star Wars, prompting endless pulses of visitors to attempt the weather-dependent one-hour crossing from Portmagee in south Kerry?

Surely not. The incongruity of filming in 2014 and 2015 and the resultant bump in visitors is a very well-covered story.

Few, however, know that some of the island’s 8,000 pairs of puffins were also keen to join in the action. When film crews pitched their tents on Christ’s Saddle — the valley between the island’s two peaks — the puffins used them as makeshift slides in the evenings. As Catherine Merrigan puts it: “The puffins had a great time as they do with anything new, hopping on top, sliding down the sides and running inside the tents for a peep. I think they might have been looking for a part.”

Those same puffins — “feisty, curious and very social [creatures] … with their webbed feet and their Charlie Chaplin walk” — do land a starring role in Catherine’s gentle and moving book, Living Among the Puffins on Skellig Michael .

In it, she outlines the monks’ history — as she does in person during visitor season from May to September — but she also gives a fascinating insight into what it is like to live so close to nature. That in itself reveals even more about the ancient monastic way of life as the men who eked out a living here, a place with no running water, had to be deeply in tune with their surroundings to survive.

There is still no running water on the island, yet three guides spend five months of the year on Skellig Michael living in rudimentary huts not far from the landing pier.

“Each hut,” writes Catherine, “consists of a bed, a gas cooker and a fridge. There’s no electricity or running water — which is brought in from the mainland in containers. There are solar panels on the top of the huts which only provide enough energy to run the fridges and a VHF radio, which is the only way to communicate to the outside world.”

When she first took a choppy boat ride to Skellig Michael to begin a new job as a guide in 2000, it wasn’t the basic conditions that posed the challenge, but the yawning isolation.

She spent the night alone in her tiny cabin and realised that she had made a huge mistake. She resolved to return to the mainland the next morning. The weather gods, though, had a different idea, whipping up a storm that kept her island-bound for five days.

By the time calm weather was restored, she had settled into life on Skellig and has been working there for five months of every year since. This is her 24th season.

“Living on the island is like being in a David Attenborough TV show,” she says. Indeed, the only channel she gets, she adds, is the constantly changing ‘sky’ TV, which puts on incredible light shows as she watches its vast expanse at night from the ancient monastery.

The puffins provide the other constant stream of entertainment. “They are busy all the time. They're very entertaining; and I frequently laugh out loud at their antics,” she says.

There are puffin burrows under the guides’ cabins, and pufflings — who knew baby puffins were called that? — emerge from a colony of nests in the nearby walls.

They pay regular visits to Catherine’s hut — waddling around, jumping into a wardrobe or, on one occasion, walking over her as she lay on her yoga mat during her morning practice.

“They love teabags, and they’ll walk up and down the wall with a teabag in their mouths,” she writes.

When repair work was being done on the walls, they played on the rungs of the ladder and, on stormy days, they keep Catherine and the other guides company.

One curious puffin even picked up the wild flowers that Catherine had left on the wall when she was clearing out the hut to return to her base in Dingle. The bird “picked up the flowers one by one in its beak in a perfect bunch and very proudly paraded up and down the wall”, she recalls.

S Colin Sheridan: Is there anything that deserves a seventeen-minute standing ovation?

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