Skellig Michael

You'll need to take a boat to get to the Skellig Islands. Tours typically land at Skellig Michael or circle both Skellig Michael and its smaller sister island, Little Skellig, which is not accessible to the public. Some tours from Killarney also make stops at picturesque spots along the Ring of Kerry and at the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre on nearby Valentia Island, which charts the history of the Skellig settlement.

• Boat tours to the island don't run in winter, and poor sea conditions can sometimes prevent boat crossings at other times of year.

• It's best to take boat trips on clear days, when fog and mist don't obscure views of the islands and the Ring of Kerry coastline.

• Exploring the island on foot is only advisable for those fit and at ease with heights. Once you land, it's a challenging hike up 600 steep and sometimes slippery stone steps.

• Bring warm clothes and a waterproof outer layer, as weather conditions can change quickly and dramatically.

Boat tours depart from the marina at Portmagee, located on the Iveragh Peninsula, just off the Ring of Kerry. The trip generally takes between 45 and 60 minutes. Travelers without access to a car will find it easier to join a guided full-day tour that includes round-trip transportation from Killarney.

Boat tours to Skellig Michael only run between mid-April and early October. The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre closes from December–February. The best and busiest time to visit is in the summer, when it's particularly important to book ahead to secure your place on a tour.

Many come to the Skelligs to view the monastic remains, while others come to see the Star Wars filming sites. However, the natural scenery and wildlife are worth the trip alone. Late spring is the best time to observe orange-billed puffins, cormorants, and the 70,000-strong gannet colony on Little Skellig—the second-largest gannet colony in the world. You may also see seals, minke whales, and dolphins.

Yes, it is challenging to climb Skellig Michael and requires appropriate gear. The boat ride can be rough and the hike up and down can be challenging, especially for anyone who fears heights. If you're willing to brave over 600 steps to reach the top, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views.

The trip to Skellig Michael is typically about six hours. This includes the boat journey to and from Skellig Michael, plus time to hike up and back down. Tours usually leave the pier in the morning and return in the mid-afternoon. Visitors should expect a potential rough sea journey.

No, you cannot stay overnight on Skellig Michael. Only day tours are available, and most involve a boat journey out in the morning, a hike on Skellig Michael, and a boat journey back in mid-afternoon. Visitors should expect a potential rough sea journey and a challenging hike.

Yes, visitors will find a public toilet on Skellig Michael, but don't expect anything more than a dry toilet system and hand sanitizer. Many of the boats that go to and from the mainland to Skellig Michael also have toilets.

It is important to wear appropriate clothing during a tour of Skellig Michael. Be prepared for a challenging hike with warm socks, hiking boots, and layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat. Visitors who are prone to seasickness may want to consider bringing medication.

Yes, visitors should book a Skellig Michael tour in advance. The summer season is a popular time to visit Skellig Michael, and a limited number of tours are available. Note that operators sometimes have to cancel tours when the weather conditions are too rough for boat trips.