Great Skellig

This place is insane, definitely worth the visit, however I will never come back because the boat ride was SO rough. It was maybe about 1 hour 15 mins out to the island and half of us on the boat spent the entire ride throwing up. The island was incredible and fun to explore, however we didn't have enough time to fully take it in. There are so many Puffins living on the island and the buildings at the top are so freaking cool. Definitely worth the terrible ride to see, but only once.

Skellig Michael was one of the absolute highlights of our honeymoon in Ireland. We were so lucky to make it out—the weather had canceled tours for two days before we finally got the green light. The boat ride was intense, with big waves that had about half our boat (including us!) feeling seasick. But wow, was it worth it. As we approached Little Skellig, we were blown away by the sheer number of birds—an unbelievable sight! Thousands upon thousands covering every surface. It was like nothing I’ve ever seen. When we finally landed on Skellig Michael, we were instantly in awe. The vibrant green moss, the ancient stone steps, the pops of orange and yellow across the rock—it was otherworldly. Climbing the steep path to the top, we were blown away by the fact that people built this in 580 AD. The beehive huts, the small graveyard, and even the Jedi-style stone structures from Star Wars made the journey unforgettable. Even without the puffins (we missed their season), this place is magic. If you’re looking for true adventure, raw beauty, and a spiritual brush with history, you have to do this. Just be prepared for a wild ride getting there—it’s all part of the story!

What an amazing place, our trip began at 8am in Portmagee we boarded our boat and set off the weather was dull and overcast. As we left the harbour and headed out to sea it began raining and the spray from waves splashed in over the side of the boat and soaked us. This did not diminish our enthusiasm in the slightest. Skellig Michael appeared through the mist like an apparition which added to the mystery of the island. We disembarked and were given a couple of hours to make the ascent to the monastery 661 steps from the base of the stairs. It is a magical place steeped in ancient history and totally dominated by wildlife including puffins. When we left the island we were tired and still wet but still very happy to have had the opportunity to visit Skellig Michael

I've been lucky to visit 3 times, each tine calm seas and great weather. I've heard from others that seasickness is something to expect! Nothing beats the feeling of walking in the footsteps of ancient monks. Seeing how they lived, imagining the hardships and pious fervour it took to survive there BEFORE waterproof and windproof clothes! Puffins were such a treat to see in person - I only saw them once: they migrate away midsummer. Be aware if you're a Star Wars fan that this is a HOLY site and UNESCO Heritage Site, so being too overzealous about Jedi Knights is quite insulting to those who are there as pilgrims, as has been going on for hundreds of years. Be respectful of this precious holy site. I've seen people eating bag lunches while sitting on protected grassy nesting areas, feigning lack of English when a guide asked them to move. Don't be that TOURON! (Tourist moron). Boats leave from PortMagee and Valentia Island and I prefer to recommend them: if weather cancels your trip, you can visit The Skellig Experience near the bridge at PortMagee. A worthwhile stop! See some more photos on IG at #TiiSkelligs

Take medicine before starting the one hour boat to Skellig Michael island even you are not a sea sick. But it’s worth to go. During strong wave we saw many dolphins. 35,000 pairs of Gannets made the little Skellig island as an awe inspiring sight from the boat. My group can view thousand of lovely tamed puffins on May 28,2024. It’s easy to see closely, much better than in Iceland. I highly recommend to visit Skellig Michael island if you visit South Ireland. Do not afraid even vomiting from seasick I can say it’s worth to go. Don’t miss it

Tricky to reach: not only are there limited slots (max 180 guests per day), it's expensive to get there and your tour might be cancelled due to weather, swells, wind, rainfall. It's 600 steps up, on uneven stone slabs. It will take you about 15 to 20 minutes of nonstop climbing, with not a lot of spots to catch your breath. Then you'll need to go down again, and your knees will have something to say about that. Wonderful views, intricately built monastery with a vivid history. Lots of birds and particular plant life. Quite the experience.

One of the highlights of our trip to Ireland. Unique and full of history. Preparing for this we read a lot of material that almost scared us out of the trek. Honestly, this is for beginners. Avid hikers will have zero issues. The biggest take away is TAKE YOUR TIME. Steps can be uneven, but watch your feet and catch your breath at each stair landing. Take a camelbak or small backpack for your water, snack, and camera. Nothing else needed. ENJOY!

This is simply a great place. If you are lucky with the weather and the waves you will have a wonderful experience. But be aware that you really have to climb all those steps. The old monastery is a great place to be. The birds on Little Skellig and the seals are great to watch. And in June there are many puffins on Skellig Michael which can be looked at from a short distance.