how to get to skellig michael isl
To get to Skellig Michael, you go by boat only from the County Kerry coast in Ireland, usually from Portmagee, with some operators also departing from Valentia, Ballinskelligs, or Derrynane Harbour. Access to the island itself is only through licensed boat operators, and the landing season is limited to roughly mid-May through September, depending on weather and official openings.
How it works
- Book a landing tour with a licensed operator well in advance, since spots are limited and the island is weather-dependent.
- Travel to the departure point, most commonly Portmagee in County Kerry.
- Take the boat crossing, which is usually about 45 minutes to 1 hour each way.
- If conditions allow, land on the island and spend about 2.5 hours there before the return boat.
What to expect
- The sea crossing can be rough, so seasickness precautions are smart.
- Not every booked trip lands; weather cancellations are common.
- If you only want views from the water, some operators also offer cruise-style trips that circle the islands rather than landing.
- Good footwear is important if you plan to climb the steps on the island.
Practical notes
Skellig Michael is remote, so it’s best to plan extra flexibility into your itinerary in case your sailing is cancelled. Public transport to the area is limited, so many visitors drive to Kerry and base themselves near the departure point. Opening dates can change each year, so the exact season is set by the authorities.
Best route
The simplest route is: reach Portmagee, pre-book a landing boat, and go when the weather window opens. That is the most reliable way to actually get onto Skellig Michael rather than just seeing it from the sea.