Why choose AquaTerra for your Skellig Michael Landing Tour?

Our covered, premium boat was built for this journey, offering comfort and stability in all conditions. Our highly trained, Fáilte Ireland approved crew ensures the highest standards of safety and professionalism throughout the experience.

Skellig Michael Landing Tour 2026: The Ultimate Adventure

Q: When does the Skellig Michael landing tour season start and finish?

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

Q: Are children allowed on Skellig Michael?

As of 2025, the OPW has set a minimum age limit due to steep terrain and physical demands. Additionally, because the tour travels 8 miles into the open Atlantic, AquaTerra carries children aged 14 and over only to ensure their comfort and safety.

Q: Why is there only one landing tour per day?

The OPW strictly regulates access to protect the island's fragile ecosystem. Each of the 15 licensed boats is permitted to land only once per day with a maximum of 12 passengers, resulting in a daily cap of 180 visitors.

Q: Where do the Skellig Michael tours depart from?

AquaTerra's Skellig Michael landing tours depart from Knightstown village marina, Valentia Island.

Q: How long is the boat journey to Skellig Michael?

The crossing takes about 35–40 minutes, depending on sea conditions. As the tour goes 8 miles out into the Atlantic, guests prone to motion sickness should consider this before travelling.

Q: How much time do I have on Skellig Michael?

You will have approximately two and a half hours on Skellig Michael to explore at your own pace. OPW Officers will provide a safety briefing before the climb begins.

Q: How many steps are there on Skellig Michael?

There are 618 stone steps leading to the monastery. There is also a pathway from the landing area to the base of the ascent which requires careful walking over uneven ground.

Q: What should I wear or bring for the landing tour?

All guests must wear sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip and ankle support, a waterproof jacket, and light layers. Fashion trainers, sandals, and long flowing garments are not permitted. Bring water, a packed lunch in a backpack, and personal medication.

Q: Is the landing tour suitable for everyone?

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

Per Person

€160

Age

14 years upwards

Group Size

Max 12 persons

Duration

5 hours

Skellig Michael Landing Adventure

Summer 2027 bookings opening soon! Have a preferred date in mind? Contact us by email to enquire about reserving your Skellig Landing.

Operates each season from mid-May to the end of September, subject to weather conditions and daily landing permission from the Office of Public Works (OPW).

Eight miles into the Atlantic, within Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, rises Skellig Michael, one of Ireland’s most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This remarkable landing experience begins aboard Skellig Bounty, the only fully covered, custom-built luxury passenger vessel on the route, offering exceptional comfort and panoramic views throughout the Atlantic crossing.

Departing from Knightstown Village Marina on Valentia Island, the journey follows Kerry’s spectacular coastline towards the Skellig Islands. Along the way, Small Skellig rises dramatically from the sea, home to one of the world’s great gannet colonies.

On reaching Skellig Michael, guests step ashore and begin the challenging ascent of more than 600 steep stone steps towards the ancient monastery. Built by early Christian monks, its remarkable beehive huts and stone structures have endured centuries of Atlantic weather. A high level of fitness, balance and confidence is essential for this landing experience.

Recognised worldwide as Luke Skywalker’s island refuge in Star Wars, Skellig Michael holds a history far more extraordinary than its Hollywood fame. Walking in the footsteps of the monks who once called this remote island home is a rare opportunity to experience Ireland’s remarkable heritage in a truly unforgettable setting.

Important: This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness or seasickness, those with a fear of heights, or anyone uncomfortable with extended offshore travel, steep steps or exposed heights.
Guests with these concerns should not book this experience.

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Skellig Michael Landing Adventure

Tour Gallery

Windswept monastic settlement at Skellig Michael, where beehive huts and stone oratories have been there for over a thousand years.

Puffins at Skellig Michael landing tour with AquaTerra

AquaTerra Gannets Nest at Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael Landing Trip

Tour highlights

Our Skellig Michael boat trips are designed for discovery. Here are the highlights of your skellig landing tour:

Built for the journey

Experience the Atlantic aboard a vessel purpose-built for its waters, where comfort, performance and protection come together.

Wildlife & Marine Encounters

Spot gannets, puffins (seasonal), seals, and possibly dolphins or whales during your boat tour.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Land on a UNESCO World Heritage Site carefully protected for its historical significance.

Ancient Beehive Monastic Huts

Climb more than 600 steep stone steps, the beehive huts and stone structures, offering a glimpse into early monastic life.

Historic Lighthouse Vistas

Admire Skellig Michael’s remote lighthouse from the sea, a striking symbol of Ireland’s maritime history and rugged Atlantic coastline.

Star Wars Filming Location

Experience Skellig Michael, the iconic backdrop for Luke Skywalker’s exile in Star Wars.

Skellig Michael Landing Adventure

In Preparation for the Tour

Ensure contact details, including email and full phone number with country code, are correct.
Guests must be reachable up to 72 hours before departure time to confirm Skellig Michael landing tour arrangements.
Watch the OPW (Office of Public Works) Skellig Michael Safety Video before travelling, as part of official landing regulations.
This tour requires a good level of fitness and mobility.
This voyage takes you 8 miles into the Atlantic, so be ready for open sea conditions during our Skellig Michael cruises.
Guests are advised to allow extra travel time for delays.
Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
It is recommended to check the weather forecast the night before you book or travel.
Dress for changing weather conditions on the day of the tour - opt for light and water proof layers.
Closed gripped footwear is essential for walking and climbing Skellig Michael - no flip-flops / Crocs / open toe shoes open heeled shoes / sandals or wellingtons.
A packed lunch and water in a backpack.
Departure may be delayed due to tides, sea conditions, or OPW scheduling. Please remain available until 5:30 PM.
A digital copy of the booking confirmation is required.

Skellig Stages

The Scenic Route, Reimagined

Knightstown Village Marina, Valentia Island - Eircode V23 XR88

Landing Tours

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose AquaTerra for Skellig Michael landing tours?

Our covered, premium boat is built for comfort and stability, perfect for Skellig Michael boat tours around the Skellig Islands.

Our highly trained, Fáilte Ireland approved crew brings exceptional professionalism and ensures the highest standards of safety throughout the boat trip experience.

Our crew’s deep knowledge of local biodiversity enriches the journey and reflects our commitment to responsible guiding.

Our modern, custom-built vessel is designed with sustainability in mind, giving a smoother, safer, and more elevated way to reach Skellig Michael. We also offer private tours for those looking for a bespoke experience.

When does the Skellig Michael landing tour season start and finish?

The season typically runs from mid-May to the end of September, weather permitting.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) sets the schedule to protect the island's delicate ecosystem and heritage.

Exact dates may vary annually based on OPW directives and prevailing sea and weather conditions

Are children allowed on Skellig Michael?

As of 2025, the OPW has set a minimum age limit due to the steep terrain, physical demands, and safety regulations.

AquaTerra carries children aged 14 and over only, ensuring their comfort and safety during this tour, which travels 8 miles into the open Atlantic.

Why is there only one landing tour per day?

The OPW strictly regulates access to Skellig Michael to protect its fragile ecosystem and the UNESCO heritage site.

This results in a daily cap of 180 visitors, in accordance with OPW conservation policies.

Where do the Skellig Michael tours depart from?

AquaTerra Skellig Michael boat tours depart from Knightstown Village Marina, Valentia Island, a few minutes drive from Portmagee Marina.

Please ensure your contact information is accurate, including full phone number with country code, so we can reach you with updates about your tour departure.

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow for check-in and briefing.

Address: Knightstown Village Marina, Valentia Island, Eire Code V23 XR88.

How long is the boat journey to Skellig Michael?

The crossing takes approximately 35 to 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the journey and surrounding Skellig scenery.

Guests prone to motion sickness should plan accordingly, as the Skellig Michael landing tour travels 8 miles into the Atlantic.

How much time do I have on Skellig Michael?

You will have roughly two and a half hours to explore the island at your own pace.

OPW Officers provide a safety briefing before the climb begins.

How many steps are there on Skellig Michael?

There are over 618 stone steps leading to the monastery on Skellig Michael.

In addition to the climb, there is a pathway from the landing area to the base, which requires careful walking over uneven ground.

All visitors are required to watch the OPW Skellig Michael Safety Video before they book and take part in the tour.

What should I wear or bring for the landing tour?

Guests must wear sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip and ankle support, as well as a waterproof jacket and light layers for changing weather.

Fashion trainers, sandals, flip-flops, Crocs, or open-heeled shoes are not permitted.

Bring water, a packed lunch in a backpack, and any necessary personal medication. Toilets are available on the island.

Is the landing tour suitable for everyone?

Unfortunately no, as 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.

This tour is also not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness or seasickness due to the extended offshore journey and potentially challenging Atlantic conditions.

All visitors must watch the OPW Skellig Michael Safety Video in full before participating in any of our landing tours.

Is the Skelligs Secrets land & sea landing tour wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the boat and landing tour is not wheelchair accessible.

The terrain is steep, uneven, and exposed, with no paths suitable for mobility devices.

Can I use a drone or film on the island?

Drones are not permitted on Skellig Michael.

Photography is allowed, but guests must remain on designated paths and follow OPW rules protecting this sacred and environmentally sensitive site.

Can I swim or explore outside the guided area on the island?

No, swimming is strictly prohibited, and guests must remain within designated areas at all times.

These rules have been set by the OPW to protect both visitor safety and the integrity of the island.

When will I find out if the Skellig Michael landing tour is cancelled?

The final decision to cancel a tour rests with OPW heritage guides, who assess sea and landing conditions each morning.

Tours may be cancelled at short notice, even shortly before departure or during the boat journey.

You will be notified immediately if updates occur, but the decision is entirely outside our control.

Are there alternative tours if my landing tour is cancelled due to sea conditions or OPW decisions?

Yes, if your landing tour is cancelled due to weather or OPW directives:

You will be offered our Ultimate Skellig Coast tour, a round-trip sea experience around the Skellig Islands.
If the round trip option does not work, a full refund will be issued.

Please ensure your contact information is accurate, including full phone number with country code, so we can reach you about any schedule changes or alternative tours.

Guests enjoying on Skellig Michael Landing Adventure with AquaTerra

Per Person

€160

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Covered vessel offering luxury and comfort on the Atlantic crossing.
Departs from Knightstown Village Marina, Valentia Island.
Breathtaking Coastal Views.
Atlantic Wildlife & Birds

Testimonials

Hear from Our Happy Adventurers

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 263 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Brad S. 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an outstanding day with AquaTerra on our trip to Skellig Michael. Brendan and Elizabeth were professional, welcoming, and clearly knew exactly what they were doing. Their vessel, the Skellig Bounty, was a huge plus for us too.

You’re seated comfortably and securely, and the design of the boat keeps you dry and protected from the elements, which we especially appreciated given the sea state that day. We saw other boats heading out with passengers sitting exposed on deck in big rubber raincoats, so the comfort of the Skellig Bounty really stood out. Even with fairly lively conditions the ride felt comfortable and safe throughout, and we always felt like we were in very capable hands.

What really stood out was how helpful they were beyond the tour itself. Elizabeth gave us several genuinely useful local recommendations, including a great seafood spot and very specific advice about getting there before opening because of the queue. We followed her advice almost to the minute, had an excellent dinner, and watched the line grow enormous behind us.

A fantastic experience from start to finish and one of the highlights of our nearly two weeks in Ireland. We would happily book with them again.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lewis Telschow 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We traveled with AquaTerra Boat Tours on Sept. 13th.
List of why we were so glad we went with AquaTerra Boat Tours, Kerry:
-Covered Cabin: other boats were open air but we were dry and comfortable.
-front facing seats: they were comfortable and had seat belts. This made riding the waves much more comfortable. When the boats comes down from a wave crest, you want a good chair for the landing.
-Modern Boat and well maintained
-great open air deck: we made several photography stops and having the back area to sit or hold onto some handles for taking pics was fantastic. Also Elizabeth made sure to cover safety precautions while out there and watched over us. Also if anyone felt seasick we could head back for fresh air.
Final thoughts:
Elizabeth and Brendan were lovely. Attentive to people with sea sickness. Maintained good airflow in cabin. Communicative with conditions and landing. Made sure to stop for some wonderful wild life photography. We saw some dolphins!
Landing is always depending on weather and waters but AquaTerra had enough experience to give a good estimate on our chances.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Adamson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Brendan & Elizabeth offer gold standard boat trips. I've sampled two already - Inishteraght & Skellig Michael Landing both of which were exceptional experiences in terms of booking and follow up communications, quality and comfort of boat, island history and commentary as you journey, etc. This is a really professional outfit that can bring you right to the westernmost point and edge of Europe and let you experience the isolation yet beauty of these places. If you love lighthouses, then you are in for a treat. Check out these not to be missed trips with Aquaterra Boat Tours.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Catherine Littleton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went on the boat ride and adventure on Skellig Michael with my son. We are from Connecticut, USA.
It was such an amazing trip! Our team was Brendan and Elizabeth. They were both so enjoyable and caring. Always asking if we were alright and please don’t hesitate if you were feeling “Ick”. So compassionate.
They explained all the safety rules so simply and enjoyably if that’s possible.
It truly was a lifetime experience and they made it even better.
Thank you so much for an amazing adventure!!
Cathy and Paul Littleton
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tilly Campbell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great trip out to Skellig Michael with Brendan and Elizabeth! They were great guides, giving us lots of information about the islands and the surrounding areas, as well as some great local recommendations. We felt very safe and comfortable on their boat, despite the weather making it a bit bumpy. We were very grateful that their boat has a cover!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Warren Grenagh 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A wonderful modern boat and exceptional care. Brendan and Elizabeth took great care of us on our journey in their gorgeous boat. We had a wonderful day and were blessed with fine sunny weather. Skellig Michael is amazing. Wouldn’t thoroughly recommend
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sean Sugrue 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. WOW….I would highly recommend Aqua Terra Tours. Firstly the boat is fabulous, clean with modern comfy seats and it’s fully closed in. The life jackets are slimline so easy to put on and take off. Brendan and Elizabeth are brilliant hosts and gave us a perfect day out. An easy 5/5. Will definitely be back. Thanks guys :-)
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Paul Moran 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic service provided by Elizabeth and Brendan. Great boat that is both comfortable, dry and fast to get you out and back quickly for those who are not great at sea. Highly recommend using these guys for your trip.