Skellig Michael: Landing Adventure

The Sceilig Mhichíl (Skellig Michael) landing tour season typically runs from mid-May to the end of September, weather permitting.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) sets this schedule to ensure the preservation of the island's delicate ecosystem and heritage. Please note that exact dates may vary annually based on OPW directives and prevailing sea and weather conditions.

Children under 14 are not permitted to land on Sceilig Mhichíl.

This is due to:

• The physical demands and exposed terrain of the island.
• Safety regulations set out by the OPW for all licensed landing operators.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) strictly regulates access to Sceilig Mhichíl (Skellig Michael) to protect its fragile ecosystem and heritage. Each of the 15 licensed boats is permitted to land only once per day, carrying a maximum of 12 passengers. This results in a daily cap of 180 visitors, in accordance with OPW conservation policies.

All AquaTerra Sceilig Mhichíl landing tours depart from Valentia Island's Skellig Experience Visitor Centre. You are responsible for providing accurate and correct contact information when booking. AquaTerra Boat Tours will not be held accountable for any missed communication, schedule changes, or updates if we are unable to reach you due to incorrect or incomplete contact details. Please ensure you include your county code with your phone number.

You MUST arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and briefing.

Address - The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, Eire Code V23 YD52.

The crossing to Sceilig Mhichíl typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions.

You will have approximately two and a half hours on Sceilig Mhichíl to explore the island at your own pace.

There are 618 stone steps leading to the monastery on Sceilig Mhichíl. In addition to the climb, there is a pathway from the landing area to the base of the ascent, which also requires careful walking over uneven ground.

All guests must wear sturdy walking boots with ankle support and a waterproof jacket. Long, flowing garments and open-toed shoes or sandals are not permitted. Please also bring water, a packed lunch, and any necessary personal medication, as the island has no facilities available.

No. This tour requires a high level of fitness, balance, and mobility. The climb includes 618 steep, uneven steps without handrails, making it unsuitable for anyone with limited mobility, balance issues, or serious health conditions.

Unfortunately, the boat and the Skellig Michael landing tour is not wheelchair accessible. The terrain is steep, uneven, and exposed, with no paths suitable for mobility devices.

Drones are not permitted on Sceilig Mhichíl. Photography is allowed, but guests must remain on designated paths and adhere to the OPW’s rules that protect this sacred and environmentally sensitive site.

No. Swimming is strictly prohibited, and guests must remain within the designated areas at all times. The OPW enforces these rules to protect visitor safety and the integrity of the site.

The final decision to cancel a landing tour rests with the OPW heritage guides on Sceilig Mhichíl, who assess sea and landing conditions each morning. A tour will not be cancelled unless they are sure it cannot proceed safely.

This decision may be made at short notice, including shortly before departure or even during the boat journey. We will notify you immediately if we receive any updates; however, the decision is entirely outside our control and can occur at any time.

The Office of Public Works establishes these rules to safeguard the safety of all visitors and maintain the integrity of the island.

You are responsible for providing accurate and correct contact information when booking. AquaTerra Boat Tours will not be held accountable for any missed communication, schedule changes, or updates if we are unable to reach you due to incorrect or incomplete contact details. Please ensure you include your county code with your phone number.

Yes. If your landing tour is cancelled due to weather or at the discretion of the OPW:

• You will be offered our Ultimate Skellig Coast Tour, a sea round-trip around the Skellig Islands.
• If that is unavailable, our Valentia Island Experience Tour will be offered.
• If neither is suitable, a full refund will be issued.

You are responsible for providing accurate and correct contact information when booking. AquaTerra Boat Tours will not be held accountable for any missed communication, schedule changes, or updates if we are unable to reach you due to incorrect or incomplete contact details. Please ensure you include your county code with your phone number.