FAQS

The season runs from mid-March to late November, with possible extensions into early December, weather permitting.

Skellig Tours and Sea Adventures operate from mid-March to late September, sometimes into early October, depending on conditions.

All tours are weather-dependent and operate only when conditions are safe to ensure the best possible experience on the Skellig Coast.

English is the primary language spoken on all tours, with multilingual options available for select experiences:

• Ultimate Skellig Coast Tour - Personal headsets provide narration in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Irish.
• Valentia Island Experience - From Summer 2027, the narration will be available in French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Irish for private groups of 4+ or private charters. Headsets are provided before departure.

Scheduled tours and private charters include live commentary in English only. Multilingual options are available for private bookings.

The ‘Skellig Bounty’ can accommodate a maximum of 12 passengers.

All prices are in euros (€), and transactions are conducted in EUR. Pricing is structured as follows:

• Adult Seat - Ages 10 and above.
• Children’s Seat - Ages 3 to 9.
• Infants under 2 - Unfortunately, children under 2 years old cannot be accommodated.

Tour fares are subject to change due to inflation or operational costs.

For the most up-to-date pricing, please refer to the specific tour on the website or contact +353 (0) 87 922 0544.

Certain tours have age restrictions for safety and experience purposes:

• Valentia Island Experience - Ages 2+
• Exclusive Private Charters into Dingle Bay - Ages 10+
• Skellig Michael Landing Adventure - Ages 14+
• Ultimate Skellig Coast Tour - Ages 10+
• Wildlife Eco Cruise - Ages 10+
• Day Trips to Dingle - Ages 10+
• Inishtearaght Lighthouse Secrets - Ages 10 +

Ages 10+ - Due to safety considerations, all passengers must be able to remain seated independently, with their feet touching the deck.

Pirates of Dingle Bay Cruise (Ages 14+) - Due to historical content and adult humour.

The listed price covers all essential elements, including the booking fee, ticket, reservations, and entrance fees. There are no hidden costs.

Walk-ins are accepted, but advance booking is strongly recommended, especially in summer when availability is limited.

Bookings must be made online, by phone, or via email.

Text message and social media bookings are not accepted.

Bookings can be made online, by phone, or via email through the following official channels:

Email: info@kerryaquaterra.ie

Phone: +353 (0) 87 922 0544

A 50% deposit or full payment is required to secure a booking.

Bookings without the required payment will be cancelled.

Enquiries, bookings, and cancellations will not be accepted via text message or social media.

All reservations must be made through official booking channels.

All tours are weather-dependent and operate only when conditions are safe.

When booking by phone, an email address and full name are required to set up and confirm the reservation.

• An email from info@kerryaquaterra.ie with a secure payment link will be sent.
• A 50% deposit or full payment is required to secure the booking. Unpaid bookings will be cancelled.
• A confirmation email will be sent once payment is received, including directions to the meeting point.

All tours are weather-dependent. Check the forecast or call +353 (0) 87 922 0455 for advice.

To book online, follow these steps:

1. Select the preferred tour from the "Book Now" tab.
2. Choose a pickup point, provide accurate details, and agree to the terms and conditions.
3. Click "Pay/Confirm," enter an email address, and proceed with payment.

Full payment is required to secure the booking. Unpaid bookings will be cancelled.

Once payment is confirmed, an email receipt will be sent, including directions to the meeting point. A digital receipt should be kept as proof of payment.

All tours are weather-dependent. Check the forecast or call +353 (0) 87 922 0455 for advice.

Cash or credit card payments can be made before boarding.

However, same-day availability is not guaranteed during the summer.

Advance booking is strongly recommended to secure a seat.

To ensure a smooth experience, please check the weather forecast the evening before the tour.

Please ensure contact details, including email and full phone number with country code, are correct as guests must be reachable up to 72 hours before departure should we need to contact you. The party leader who made the booking should have the email confirmation stored on a phone for reference.

To ensure a smooth pickup and avoid delays, the pickup location should be pinned on Google Maps, and all guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.

For comfort and safety, the following items are recommended:

• Dress for changing weather conditions on the day of the tour - opt for light layers along with a light coat or rain jacket.
• Sunscreen.
• Hat and sunglasses.
• Closed footwear is essential on the boat - no flip-flops / Crocs / open shoes.
• Bottle of water and light snacks.

Guests are requested to review the provided directions the evening before the tour and pin the location on Google Maps for easy navigation.
This helps ensure a smooth journey and allows time for any necessary rest stops.

All guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to avoid delays.

Pick up - Knightstown, Valentia Island

The pickup location is at the public marina in Knightstown, Valentia Island.

Eircode: V23 XR88

Directions:

• Walk past the RNLI (Lifeboat) Station.
• Continue down the pier / gangway to the top of the public marina.
• Wait at the top of the public marina’s L-leg, where the guide will complete check-in before directing the group to the boat.

Pick up - Renard Point

The pickup location is at the public ferry slipway at Renard Point.

Eircode: V23 HK06

Directions:

• Meet at the public ferry slipway.
• Wait beside the pier wall and remain away from the busy slipway while the AquaTerra boat is secured alongside.
• The guide will complete check-in just before directing the group to the boat.
• Guests must stay clear of oncoming ferry traffic on the public slipway.

Pick up - Cahersiveen Pier

The pickup location is at Cahersiveen Public Pier.

Eircode: V23 Y925

Directions:

• Drive into Cahersiveen town, passing Fitzpatrick’s The Market House (shop / gas station) on the left.
• Take the next right onto Bridge Street.
• Continue straight until reaching The Old Barracks (a white and black building on the right).
• At The Old Barracks, take the left turn onto Quay Street.
• Follow Quay Street until reaching the Marina sign, then turn right.
• Pull into the marina area and park in the public car park on the right.
• Wait beside the public pier wall while the AquaTerra boat is secured alongside.
• The guide will complete check-in just before directing the group to the boat.

Pick Up - Dingle

The pickup location is at Dingle Public Pier.

Eircode: V92 A6XT

• Drive into Dingle town, passing the tourist office on the left.
• Take the next turn into the public paid car park on the left.
• Wait at the top of the public pier area or beside the ADE Defibrillator on the building while the AquaTerra boat is secured alongside.
• The guide will complete check-in just before directing the group to the boat.

Guests are advised to review directions the evening before the tour and pin the location on Google Maps for easy navigation.

Arrival is required at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Pick up - Skellig Experience Visitor Center

The pickup location is at the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, Valentia Island.

Eircode: V23 YD52

Directions:

• Follow signs for Valentia Island.
• Passing Portmagee village on the right, drive over the bridge and onto Valentia Island.
• Take the first turn on the left at a large building with a grass-roof.
• Pull into the car park area and park in the public car park.
• Go into the visitor centre and let a staff member you have arrived.
• The staff member will complete check-in just before directing the group to the boat.

Guests can take a bus to Cahersiveen or Knightstown, Valentia Island.

Cahersiveen: Route 280 provides a daily service.
Leaving from Killarney Bus Station, passing through Fossa, Beaufort, Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, and Waterville.
From the Cahersiveen town centre bus stop (Fair Green stop), it is a short walk to the marina for pick up.
Please note: Pick-up from Cahersiveen Marina must be arranged in advance when booking.

Valentia Island: Route 287a operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Local Link connects Valentia Island - Knightstown Village, Chapeltown, Portmagee, and Cahersiveen.
For the most up-to-date timetable, visit www.locallinkkerry.ie.

Guests are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for parking and check-in.

Knightstown Parking

• Public parking at the harbour is limited.
• Free parking is available throughout Knightstown Village.
• Additional parking is located near the Church on the seafront.
• Extra time should be allocated on busy days to avoid delays.

Renard Point Parking

• Parking at Renard Point is limited.
• Public parking is available along the main roadside across from Kerry Fish / Quinlan’s Fish Factory.
• The car park at O’Neill’s, The Point Seafood Bar, is for patrons only.
• Extra time should be allocated on busy days to avoid delays.

Cahersiveen Pier Parking

• Ample free public parking is available at Cahersiveen Pier and the marina area.

Dingle town Parking

• Ample paid / free public parking is available in Dingle town and the marina area.

The Skellig Experience Visitor Center

• Ample free public parking is available at the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre.

Please note: The car park opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm daily during the summer season.

Please note for advised parking areas: Kerry Aqua Terra Ltd. (referred to as AquaTerra Boat Tours) is not liable for any loss or damage to property or vehicles parked at these public / private locations.

Guests are advised to review directions the evening before the tour and pin the location on Google Maps for easy navigation.

Arrival is required at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.

There are no toilet facilities at Renard Point. Guests are advised to use public toilets before arrival.

Nearest Public Toilets:

Cahersiveen:

• Bridge Street.
• The Marina (main marina building).
• Fitzpatrick’s Market House & SuperValu.

Knightstown, Valentia Island:

• On the waterfront, opposite The Royal Valentia Hotel.

Portmagee:

• Public car park in Portmagee village.

Waterville:

• Public car park on the waterfront, opposite The Butler Arms Hotel.

Dingle:

• On the waterfront in the town centre.

Cancellations must be made via email at info@kerryaquaterra.ie or by phone at +353 (0) 87 922 0544.

Cancellations will not be accepted via text message or social media, including Facebook/Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, or Pinterest.

• Refunds for Skellig Michael Landing Adventure: Cancellations made at least 7 days before the scheduled tour will qualify for a refund. 
• Skellig Michael Landing Adventure Non-refundable: Cancellations made less than 7 days before the tour, including no-shows or late arrivals, are non-refundable.

• Refunds for shared experiences: Cancellations made at least 48 hours before the scheduled tour will qualify for a refund.
• Non-refundable for shared experiences: Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the tour, including no-shows or late arrivals, are non-refundable.

Different cancellation terms apply to picnics, food / beverage options, cruise ship excursions, and Preferred Business Partner Exclusive Voyage bookings. Full terms and conditions apply.

AquaTerra reserves the right to cancel tours due to unsafe weather, sea conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or safety concerns. Passengers will be notified by email or phone.

In such cases:

• A full refund will be processed within 5 to 10 working days.
• Alternative tour options may be offered, with passenger safety as the top priority.

Dress Code Cancellation Policy

AquaTerra reserves the right to cancel a tour or refuse a guest if they are not dressed appropriately for the conditions. Suitable attire is essential for safety and comfort.

Failure to comply with the dress code outlined in the terms and conditions may result in cancellation without a refund or refusal of boarding.

Guests must arrive at the tour meeting point at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in.

• If assistance is needed or a delay is expected, guests should call +353 (0) 87 922 0544 or refer to the Tour Meeting Point section for directions.
• Due to strict scheduling, late arrivals cannot be accommodated, especially during peak season when multiple tours operate daily.
• Late arrivals and no-shows are non-refundable, as stated in the booking conditions.

This policy applies to all tour participants and groups who fail to arrive or arrive after the scheduled departure time for any AquaTerra tour.

Safety and enjoyment are the top priorities at AquaTerra. Weather conditions may affect tours, and cancellations or adjustments will be made as necessary.

Tours on ‘The Navigator’

• Tours will proceed in light drizzle, but cancellations may occur due to heavy rain, strong winds, dangerous sea conditions, or poor visibility.
• In extreme weather, tours may be relocated to an enclosed boat. However, rescheduling or cancellation may still be necessary.
• Guests will be contacted in advance if weather conditions affect their tour. It is essential to provide up-to-date contact details when booking.

Tours on ‘Skellig Bounty’

• Conditions outside the harbour can vary significantly. The skipper may cancel the tour if sea or weather conditions are deemed unsafe.
• If a tour is cancelled, guests will be offered the option to reschedule or receive a refund.
• If weather permits, alternative tour options within Valentia Harbour may be available upon request.

Safety is the priority, and guests' understanding is appreciated in these circumstances.

AquaTerra welcomes guests with reduced mobility; however, suitability depends on the type of tour. The Skellig Bounty requires guests to board with assistance and move independently to a fixed seat, as the vessel is not wheelchair-accessible and involves steps when boarding.

For this reason, only our harbour tours are suitable for guests with reduced mobility. Sea cruises and Skellig tours travel through open-water conditions and are not appropriate for guests who may find movement, balance or seating transitions challenging.

Our crew are happy to provide steadying support during boarding and seating on suitable tours, but guests must be able to manage steps and maintain an independent seated position while underway.

If mobility is a concern, we encourage you to contact us before booking so we can recommend the most comfortable and enjoyable option for your needs.

To ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, strollers cannot be brought on board.

Each passenger must occupy a designated seat, and there is no safe way to secure a stroller during the journey.

Children under 2 years old therefore cannot be accommodated on any tour at this time.

Dog Policy

Dogs are also not permitted on any AquaTerra tours. This decision is based on safety considerations, including boat movement, sea conditions and passenger comfort.

If you have specific questions or accessibility needs, our team is always happy to advise before booking.

Yes, life jackets are provided for all passengers and must be worn at all required times.

Kerry Aqua Terra Ltd. is fully licensed by the Irish Maritime Administration (IMA) and the Department of Transport, ensuring full compliance with marine safety regulations.

The crew will provide instructions on proper use before departure.

AquaTerra prioritises passenger safety and comfort on all tours. Guests should consider the following before booking:

• Physical Fitness & Medical Conditions: Some tours may require guests to remain seated for extended periods or manage varying sea conditions. Those with back problems, recent surgeries, or other medical conditions should consult a doctor before booking.
• Motion Sickness: Due to the sheltered waters, tours within Valentia Harbour are unlikely to cause motion sickness. However for our tours that go offshore and for guests prone to motion sickness -  should prepare in advance for their tour offshore. Consulting a pharmacy for suitable remedies is advised.
• Clothing & Footwear: Guests must dress appropriately for marine conditions. Dress for changing weather conditions on the day of the tour - opt for light layers. Closed footwear is essential on the boat - no flip-flops / Crocs / open shoes.
• Alcohol & Hangovers: Guests recovering from alcohol consumption or experiencing a hangover are strongly advised to reschedule, as sea conditions may worsen discomfort. Standard cancellation policies apply.
• Pregnancy: Heavily pregnant individuals are advised not to participate, prioritising their well-being and safety.
• Children Onboard: Since children under 2 years old are not permitted, it's worth reinforcing that accompanying adults are responsible for supervising young passengers. Additionally, all children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout the tour.

If guests have any concerns about medical conditions or suitability, they should consult a medical professional before booking. AquaTerra ensures all passengers have a safe and enjoyable experience.

While AquaTerra tours provide excellent opportunities to observe whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds, wildlife is unpredictable, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

• Wildlife behaviour and environmental factors influence sightings, and nature operates on its own schedule.
• The experienced crew and skipper make every effort to maximise wildlife encounters.
• AquaTerra upholds a strict non-interference policy, ensuring that wildlife is not chased, fed, or disturbed and that natural interactions are done without putting animals in danger.
• Refunds are not provided if wildlife is not sighted, as this is beyond the operator's control.

Regardless of sightings, AquaTerra tours offer unforgettable experiences, showcasing the breathtaking scenery of Valentia Island and the Skellig Coast.

AquaTerra’s boats are custom-designed to reduce emissions and minimise environmental impact.

The AquaTerra crew actively participate in climate action initiatives and regenerative tourism programs.

Tours follow a strict non-interference policy to protect wildlife and local waters, ensuring a responsible and positive impact on the environment.

More information can be found on the Sustainability tab.