Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know

Wave Heading Separator
When does your season start?

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.

What language is spoken during the tour?

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 2026, 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.

What is the maximum passenger capacity per boat?

Both ‘The Navigator’ and ‘Skellig Bounty’ can accommodate a maximum of 12 passengers per boat.

What currency do you accept, and how is pricing structured?

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.

Are there age restrictions for the tours?

Certain tours have age restrictions for safety and experience purposes:

  • Valentia Island Experience - Ages 2+
  • Exclusive Private Charters into Dingle Bay - Ages 10+
  • 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Pirates of Dingle Bay Cruise (Ages 14+) - Due to historical content and adult humour.

What does ‘all-inclusive’ mean on the website?

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

Do tours need to be booked in advance?

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.

How to book with AquaTerra Tours?

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.

How can a tour be booked by phone?

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.

How can a tour be booked online?

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.

Can bookings be made and paid for at the boat?

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.

What should be brought on an AquaTerra tour?

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

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:

  • Full-length trousers or warm clothing on cooler days.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Hat and sunglasses.
  • Coat or rain jacket.
  • Bottle of water or snacks.
  • Flat, comfortable shoes (required for all tours).
Where are the tour pickup points?

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.

Pickup Point Map

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 - 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.

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.

Can I get a bus to a tour pickup location if I don’t have a car?

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.

Where can guests park?

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.

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.

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.

Please note: 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.

Where are the nearest toilet facilities?

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.
What is the cancellation policy?

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: Cancellations made at least 48 hours before the scheduled tour will qualify for a refund.
  • Non-refundable: 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 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.

What is the Late Arrival or No-Show Policy

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.

How does the weather affect tours?

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.

Is there accessibility for guests with reduced mobility?

AquaTerra is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all guests, including those with reduced mobility or wheelchair users.

  • ‘The Navigator’ is a wheelchair-accessible vessel, designed for comfort and ease of boarding.
  • Special ramps are available, and the crew will assist with boarding while ensuring safety.
  • Guests requiring mobility or wheelchair ramps must notify AquaTerra at least 24 hours in advance to allow for necessary arrangements.
  • While accessibility options are provided, guests are responsible for propelling their own wheelchairs during the tour, as crew members cannot assist with this.

For specific requirements or inquiries, guests are encouraged to contact AquaTerra directly to discuss individual needs.

Can guests bring strollers or dogs on board?

AquaTerra aims to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Stroller Policy

  • Children under 2 years old cannot be accommodated on any tour.
  • ‘The Navigator’ boat is stroller-accessible, allowing families with children to join comfortably.
  • Strollers cannot be left unattended at any time during the tour.
  • For safety reasons, strollers are not permitted on walking or landing tours.

Dog Policy

  • Dogs are no longer permitted on any tours due to safety concerns related to boat movement and water conditions.

For further inquiries, guests are encouraged to contact AquaTerra directly.

Are there life jackets onboard?

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.

What are the onboard safety considerations?

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, those prone to motion sickness should prepare in advance for tours out to sea. Consulting a pharmacy for suitable remedies is advised.
  • Clothing & Footwear: Guests must dress appropriately for marine conditions. For safety, flat, non-slip footwear is required on all tours.
  • 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.

Is wildlife always guaranteed on the tour?

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.

How does AquaTerra promote regenerative tourism?

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.