The Valentia Island Experience
€60
2 years upwards
Max 12 persons
1.5 hours
The Valentia Island Experience
Set sail on a shared experience with fellow guests and discover the history and heritage of Valentia Island from the water. This journey offers a welcoming and atmospheric introduction to one of Ireland’s most remarkable places along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Gliding across the sheltered waters of Valentia Harbour, guests discover a coastline shaped by centuries of stories. Once a Viking stronghold and a haven for monks seeking solitude, these waters later carried the world’s first successful transatlantic telegraph cable, linking Europe and North America and transforming global communication.
As the tour continues, cliffs rise from the sea and quiet coves reveal hints of the island’s layered past. Wildlife brings the journey to life with a resident seal colony resting on sun warmed rocks, gannets diving with effortless precision and dolphins often appearing near the harbour entrance. In the right season, a basking shark may drift silently beneath the surface, a gentle presence in these waters.
Designed as a comfortable and engaging experience for all, this scheduled afternoon tour allows guests to relax and take in Valentia’s timeless beauty at a gentle pace. It is a shared journey through heritage, wildlife and coastal character, an ideal way to discover the spirit of Valentia Island from the sea.
In Preparation For the Tour
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Ensure contact details, including email and full phone number with country code, are correct.
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Guests must be reachable up to 72 hours before departure should we need to contact you.
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Guests are advised to allow extra travel time for delays.
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Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
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It is recommended to check the weather forecast the night before.
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Dress for changing weather conditions on the day of the tour - opt for light layers.
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Closed footwear is essential on the boat - no flip-flops / Crocs / open shoes.
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Bring a small water bottle.
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A digital copy of the booking confirmation is required.
Tour Highlights
Adventure awaits
Experience the freedom of the Atlantic aboard our luxury vessel, where every detail is designed for comfort and discovery.
Spectacular Coastal Scenery
Admire Kerry’s rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves from the water.
Wildlife Encounters
Spot seals basking, cormorants diving, oystercatchers wading, and gulls soaring.
Local Expertise
Our crew are more than guides; they bring Valentia’s history, legends, and seafaring heritage to life.
Sea Caves & Rock Formations
Explore hidden caves and towering rock formations sculpted by the Atlantic.
Iconic Lighthouse
One of Ireland’s oldest lights, this beacon has guided vessels through the Atlantic since 1841.
Moments Worth Mooring For
Knightstown Village Marina, Valentia Island - Eircode V23 XR88
Per Person
€60
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Departs from Knightstown Marina, Valentia Island.
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Timeless Stories, Expertly Told.
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Breathtaking Coastal Views.
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Harbour Life & Seabirds.
Hear from Our Happy Adventurers
EXCELLENT Based on 155 reviews Posted on Russell PendockTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An Absolute Must-Do Experience! We had the most incredible day out with AquaTerra Boat Tours! From start to finish, Elizabeth and Brendan were amazing hosts — friendly, knowledgeable, and so passionate about the Skellig Islands and the surrounding area. The boat was extremely comfortable, spacious, and clearly very well maintained, which made the journey so enjoyable. The commentary was fantastic — informative, and full of fascinating stories about the history, wildlife, and local life. Seeing the Skellig Islands up close was absolutely breathtaking — a true highlight of our trip to Ireland. If you’re visiting this area, this tour is a must-do. You won’t find a better way to experience the beauty and magic of the Skelligs!Posted on Paula O'MeliaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend!Posted on LaurenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This tour was fantastic. The boat was comfortable and Brendan and Elizabeth were lovely. Elizabeth has clearly put a TON of work into her historical/geological/animal research and the love and care very much shows. The ride was surprisingly smooth for October. 11/10 do this.Posted on Lee HusseyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Elizabeth and Brendan were amazing! The in depth of the history of Valentia Island was amazing.. I would highly recommend and will be booking the Skeig Michael tour with Aqua TerraPosted on Margerite Mc CooeyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Elizabeth and Brendan, their warm hospitality and extensive knowledge made our tour something special. The thoughtfully designed tours immerse you in the stunning landscapes whilst emphasising conservation. Kerry Aqua Terra is a labor of love that beautifully reflects its surroundings and the dedication of its owners. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Kerry's natural wonders in a fun and exciting approach! We look forward to visiting again next year! Margerite, Co ArmaghPosted on Gemma McCooeyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing experience with Elizabeth & Brendan - they are the best hosts! Highly recommend for anyone visiting. So enjoyable 🙌🏻☘️ Thanks guys, we can’t wait to visit again soon.Posted on jean-christophe adamoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Une superbe excursion Des sensations sur le trajets et nous avons adoré la beauté le l île. Le capitaine et son adjointe etaient très sympa. Que du positifPosted on Miriam VennTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Die Skellig Michael Landing Tour war sehr gut organisiert und professionell durchgeführt. Tourguide und Kapitän waren sehr freundlich und hilfsbereit. Wir haben uns zu jeder Zeit gut aufgehoben gefühlt und hatten eine tolle Zeit auf der Insel sowie bei der Umrundung. Das Boot ist modern und vergleichsweise schnell. Im Unterschied zu den anderen Booten, die die Insel besucht haben, saßen wir zu jeder Zeit trocken. Wir können die Tour uneingeschränkt empfehlen.Posted on Philippa BrennanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just an incredible experience. Took part in a Skellig Michael landing tour, booked via a third party. Was extremely lucky to find myself onboard the Skellig Bounty! As others have mentioned, the boat is brand new - and frankly miles above the other boats I saw that operate on this route for the same prices. The seats were incredibly comfortable and there was space to stand out the back for better views if you wished. Elizabeth & Brendan were wonderful hosts - equal parts friendly, informative, fun yet safety-focused. At all times I felt safe, comfortable and happy during my time with them. I cannot say enough good things and would highly recommend this company. To top it all off, they even made sure we had good weather and saw a pod of dolphins on our way back....just going above and beyond....!