The Skelligs Coast’s Church Island Tour

Discover the Mystical Church Island 1hr Tour 

Step into a world where history and legend intertwine on our exclusive Skellig Boat Tour. Journey to the heart of Valentia Harbour and set foot on the sacred grounds of Church Island, a treasure of the Skellig Coast. This 1-hour tour offers adventurers a rare glimpse into the serene life of 6th-century monks, whose stories of faith and endurance are etched into the very landscape of this historic island.

Tour Notes

  • This tour involves climbing uneven surfaces to access Church Island
  • This tour/boat is wheelchair accessible – If individuals cannot climb the island, the tour can still be enjoyed from the water’s edge while enjoying the comfort onboard ‘The Navigator’.
  • Departs from Knightstown, Valentia Island & Renard Point.
  • Tour last approximately 1 hour 
  • This tour requires sensible footwear.

€50 per adult, €35 per child under 10 (Min. 4 persons for the tour to operate.

**Please be advised that this tour requires sensible footwear**

Why visit Church Island?

Church Island stands as a monument to the monastic lives that inhabited the island. Here, amidst the ruins of their 6th-century monastery, you can feel the pulse of a bygone era, a time when monks and Vikings crossed paths. Only 200 meters from the shores of Beginish Island, the site of a Viking settlement established in the early 8th century.

Immerse yourself in the rich Celtic history as your guide leads you through an experience that transcends time, offering peace and tranquillity reminiscent of the monks’ existence, harmoniously intertwined with the land and sea. As you leave Church Island, let your imagination wander with local myths and folklore, tales of the strange and supernatural that have coloured the narrative of these remote islands for centuries. Decide for yourself: are these stories mere myths, or do they hold a kernel of truth?

Real Reviews, Real Experiences

  • star ratingThere was a group of 8 and the tour guide Elizabeth was excellent .She was very informative .The caves were amazing.

    815eilleenh
    August 30, 2021

    star ratingGreat, informative and fun tour with Liz and Pat! Good value for money, lots to see and just the right amount of time. Thanks guys!More

    RachelFitzgerald123
    August 13, 2019

    star ratingThoroughly enjoyed our cruise to Church Island & Beginish. Brendan, our guide, was so informative and knowledgeable and brilliant with kids (two boys under 4).Fascinating history, Stunning views and a... read more

    Lolamileel
    July 18, 2019
  • star ratingIt was a fantastic tour. Liz provided a wealth of knowledge and I fell so assured with Brendan driving thr boat. They made my experience of this trip a great.... read more

    535gordono
    July 19, 2022

    star ratingThis is the third time we've used Kerry AquaTerra and every trip has been great. Brendan and Elizabeth are so welcoming and knowledgeable and really passionate about the area and... read more

    jeanmevans13
    June 5, 2023

    star ratingWe had a fantastic trip yesterday with Elizabeth and Brendan Elizabeth easily the best tour guide I’ve ever experienced I couldn’t recommend this trip highly enough

    siobhanthornton
    July 1, 2022
  • star ratingThe whole experience of Valentia Harbour was fabulous and was one of the highlights on our trip to Valentia Island while touring the Wild Atlantic Way. The history of Valentia... read more

    FrankyEM8685
    May 31, 2019

    star ratingWe recently did this tour during a visit from the U.S., and it was one of the best afternoons of our visit to Kerry. The scenery is mind-blowing, the boat... read more

    janemccoog1
    May 31, 2019

    star ratingExcellent boat tour in a wonderful place. Learned some very interesting history from our lovely guide Elizabeth. Stunning landscape and amazing views. Highly recommend Kerry Aqua Terra.

    muireadk2023
    June 27, 2023
  • star ratingGuide was excellent. Very professional customer service. Catered very well for those with mobility issues. Dress for a sea breeze. Lovely tour of the main sites on the island from... read more

    Z4492VCmargarets
    August 28, 2021

    star ratingVery informative tour. Elizabeth was very kind and made sure we were comfortable. Great sights were seen! Both members went above and beyond to give us tips for our stay... read more

    X9118QCalexist
    June 22, 2023

    star ratingA must see. Beautiful scenery, but the knowledge and story telling of the hosts make this trip worthwhile

    michellecI5719RD
    February 4, 2023