Decide on a departure point. There are several locations from which boats depart for the Skellig Islands including Portmagee and Derrynane.
Identify a boat operator who runs routes to the Skelligs.
Make reservations for your ride to the Skelligs. If you are departing Portmagee try Casey's at 011 (+353) 87 2395470; Joe Roddy at 011 (+353) 87 1209924 or Des and Pat Lavelle at 011 (+353) 66 9476124. For those departing from Derrynane, call Sean O'Shea at 011 (+353) 87 6898431.
Call your boat operator the morning of your trip to check if weather conditions will permit travel.
Pack the following items: Something to eat and drink, a camera, a waterproof jacket and something waterproof to protect your bag from the ocean spray.
Wear solid walking shoes with a good rubber sole. You will climb about 600 feet and potentially slippery steps to reach the monastery.
Arrive on time for the return trip to the mainland. Typically, you'll have about two hours on the island.
