Skellig Michael Boat Tour

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Eco Tours to the Skellig Islands

Skellig Michael Boat Tour

The Skellig Michael Boat Tour around the Skellig Islands has multiple departure times throughout the day. The boat tour to Skellig Michael takes about 50 minutes, circling Skellig Michael and Little Skelligs Nature Reserve for approximately 45 minutes before returning to the marina in Portmagee. The boat tour goes around both islands getting right up close to Skellig Michael and the Little Skelligs to see both the wildlife and the historical sites.

This tour does not land on the island. It can get quite busy especially in the peak season so it is advisable to book well in advance.

Plan your visit

Duration

approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes

Season

The season runs from April to the end of September.

Price (excl booking fee)

Adults: €60 / Seniors: €55
Students: €55
Children: €50
Family (2 Adults + 2 Children): €190 - Each additional child: €35

Meeting point

The tour departs from the marina in Portmagee, Co. Kerry.

skellig-venture-at-the-small-skelligs-on-the-skellig-michael-eco-boat-tour (1)

The Eco Tour

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.

Crossing Time

The crossing to Skellig Michael takes about 50 minutes.

Time at the Skellig Islands

The boat spends approximately 45 minutes circling Skellig Michael and Little Skelligs

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Important Info

What To Expect

Terms & Conditions

Clothing

Bring Rain Jackets

Prepare for all weather conditions.

Be Contactable

In Case of Changes

It is very important that we can reach you on the contact information you provide us with (i.e., 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.

Weather

Be Prepared

The departure time may be delayed due to tides and sea conditions.

tourist on kerry cliffs - tours to skellig island

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Blind Man's Cove

A secluded and peaceful landing spot, Blind Man's Cove is the first point of arrival for most visitors. Its rugged beauty and crystal-clear waters set the tone for the island's mystical experience. The dramatic cliffs and ocean views make it feel like stepping into another world.

a stone stairs leading up to a rocky hill

Christ's Saddle

Nestled between two peaks, Christ's Saddle offers a breathtaking vantage point of the Atlantic Ocean. This natural resting place provides visitors with a moment of reflection amidst sweeping, panoramic views. It’s the perfect spot to pause and absorb the island's raw beauty and history.

Needle's Eye

This narrow, dramatic rock formation showcases Skellig Michael's awe-inspiring geology. Known for its sharp, towering structure, the Needle's Eye leaves visitors marveling at the island’s natural artistry. It's an unmissable sight for adventurers and photographers alike.

Monastic Settlement

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient monastic settlement dates back over a thousand years. Explore the stone beehive huts, oratories, and crosses where monks lived in seclusion. It's a humbling reminder of human resilience, spirituality, and the connection between man and nature.

Lighthouse

Built in the 19th century, the Skellig Michael lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime history. Perched on the island's edge, it once guided sailors through treacherous waters. Today, it offers stunning views of the endless horizon, where sky meets sea.

Old Lighthouse

The remains of the Old Lighthouse tell stories of Skellig Michael's role in navigating the wild Atlantic. Though weathered by time, it retains a haunting beauty. Explore its ruins and imagine the days when its light was a beacon of hope for sailors.

About the Skellig Michael Eco Tour

How long is the boat trip to Skellig Michael?

The boat trip takes about 45 minutes to reach Skellig Michael and Little Skelligs Nature Reserve.

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.

What is the cancellation policy for the Skellig Eco Tour?

If you cancel more than 3 days in advance you will receive a full refund minus the booking fee.

Do I get a refund if the tour is cancelled because of the weather?

If the tour is cancelled because of bad weather or sea conditions you will receive a full refund including booking fee. Or if you prefer, we will try to reschedule you on the next available eco tour when the weather/sea conditions improve.

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Check Out Our Other Tours

Audio Visual Boat 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.

Audio-Visual Boat Tour