Frequently Asked Questions
Before you visit
Answers to your Questions
Practical answers about booking, weather, what to expect and how to prepare for your tour to the Skellig Islands
Booking faq
Where do the tours depart from?
All our tours depart from Portmagee Marina, Portmagee, Co. Kerry, Ireland.
How do I book?
All bookings are made online through our website. For large Eco Tour group bookings, contact us directly and we will help you to arrange it.
How far in advance should I book?
As early as possible. Landing Tour places are strictly limited and often sell out months in advance. Eco Tour places also fill quickly during peak season.
How much do the tours cost?
The Eco Boat Tour is €60 per adult, €55 for seniors and students, €50 for children and €190 for a family of two adults and two children. The Landing Tour is €145 per person for all passengers aged 14 and over. These prices exclude the online booking fee.
Do you take group bookings?
Yes, for the Eco Tour, we can accommodate small and large groups. Group bookings are not available for the Landing Tour.
Can I change or cancel my booking?
Yes. You can change or cancel your booking using the view/change link in your booking confirmation email. See our cancellation policy for full details.
Weather and cancellations faq
What happens if my tour is cancelled?
You will receive a full refund to the card used at the time of booking if your tour is cancelled because of the sea or weather conditions.
Can I reschedule my booking if it is cancelled?
If your Eco Tour is cancelled, we will do our best to move you to the next available tour once conditions improve. If your Landing Tour is cancelled, it is unlikely that an alternative landing date will be available due to limited capacity and high demand. Where possible, we offer Eco Tour places as an alternative.
When will I find out if my Landing Tour is cancelled?
The OPW heritage guides who live and work on Skellig Michael during the season make the final decision each morning based on conditions at the island. We will contact you immediately if the tour is cancelled, but in some cases the decision is not made until close to the departure time.
How are weather and sea condition decisions made?
All tours are subject to sea and weather conditions. Decisions are made based on safety on the day, and conditions at the islands can differ from conditions in Portmagee. If there are changes or delays, we will stay in contact with passengers by email and SMS.
Is there a better time of year to avoid cancellations?
No. Sea and weather conditions on the south-west Kerry coast are changeable and there is no consistently better month.
On the day of your tour faq
What happens on the day of my tour?
For the Eco Tour, arrive at Portmagee Marina 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
For the Landing Tour, you will receive your estimated departure time the day before when you check in online.
We stay in contact by SMS/WhatsApp and email if there are any changes due to sea or weather conditions. Our crew will meet you at the marina, confirm final details and bring you to the boat. A safety briefing is given before departure. Departure times may be delayed depending on sea conditions.
What should I wear?
Wear warm, comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear. Conditions on the water are colder than on land and can change quickly. Waterproof clothing is strongly recommended.
What if I suffer from motion sickness or seasickness?
The Atlantic crossing can be rough depending on the sea and weather conditions. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before you travel and avoid eating a heavy meal beforehand. The boat crossing takes approximately 45 minutes each way.
Are there toilet facilities on board?
Yes. Both the Eco Tour and Landing Tour boats have toilet facilities on board.
The Eco Boat Tour faq
How long does the Eco Tour take?
Approximately 2.5 hours. The boat circles both Skellig Michael and Little Skellig and does not land on the island.
How long is the crossing from Portmagee?
Approximately 45 minutes each way. The Skellig Islands are eight miles (12 Kms) off the coast and the journey is across open Atlantic water, so conditions vary depending on the day.
When does the Eco Tour season run?
From April until early October, with multiple departures daily depending on sea conditions.
Are dogs allowed on the Eco Tour?
Yes. Dogs are permitted on the Eco Tour.
What will I see on the Eco Tour?
The boat travels close to the islands, giving clear views of Skellig Michael and Little Skellig from the boat, including the historic sites, lighthouses and seabirds.
The Landing Tour faq
What is the minimum age for the Landing Tour?
14 years old. Children under 14 are not permitted to land on Skellig Michael under any circumstances. The Eco Tour has no minimum age.
How fit do I need to be for the Landing Tour?
You need a good level of fitness and must be comfortable on steep, uneven stone steps with significant exposure to heights. The climb involves 618 steps and there are no handrails in places. If you have any doubt, the Eco Tour is the more suitable option.
How long does the Landing Tour take?
Approximately 5 hours in total, with around 2.5 hours on the island.
What happens if I am not able for the climb on the day?
Once on the island, if you feel unable to make the climb, you may remain at the lower level. OPW guides actively encourage anyone who is unsure to make a sensible decision before attempting the ascent. If you have doubts before booking, the Eco Tour is the more suitable option.
When does the Landing Tour season run?
From mid-May to the end of September. There are no landings outside these dates.
What should I bring on the Landing Tour?
Bring warm clothing, waterproofs and sturdy footwear with grip. You should also bring food, water and sunscreen. All visitors must watch the OPW safety briefing video before landing.