Skellig Michael and the Skellig Islands are 8 miles (12 km) off the coast from Portmagee Kerry. Rising majestically from the sea, Skellig Michael, now famous from the recent Star Wars films, climbs 700ft above sea level. At the top, you will find a well preserved sixth-century monastic settlement. From Skellig Michael the larger of the two Islands, you have great views of the coast of Kerry, Little Skelligs which also has a huge Bird population on the Island. From May until early August you have the Spectacular Puffins on both Islands along with many other types of Birds. On a lucky day, you can also see Dolphins and Whales from the Island and from the Boat.

 

 

Monastery going back to the 7th Century

 

• Colourful Puffins
• Gannets that can dive from over 30 meters for fish
• Arctic terns
• Fulmars
• Commorants
• Guillemots
• Storm-petrel

 

 

Heading back to the Boat great care must be adhered to on Skellig Michael that said ita a great trip not to be missed.

 

• Bluefin Tuna
• Minke Whale
• Fin Whale
• Basking Shark
• Dolphins
• Humpback Whales
• Seals
• Blue Shark

 

 

Boat trips include a trip around Little Skelligs there is a large Gannet population and Seal Colony.

 

 

• A Camera
• A raincoat just in case you can leave it on the boat if you don't need it
• A light snack and something to drink
• Some Sun Cream
• Flat shoes with some grip

 

 

Boat trips are also available around the Islands for those who dislike heights or the strenuous climb to the summit.

 

Boat Trips can be booked online directly with the Boat operators :

 

 

 

• The Skellig Chocolate Factory
• Valentia Lighthouse
• Hike to Bray Head
• Saint Brendan's Well
• The Butler Arms in Waterville and the Fisherman's Bar this is where the Star Wars crew stayed.