Portmagee is Ireland’s westernmost harbour and one of the main departure points for boat trips to Skellig Michael. The Skellig Ring also passes through the village. Visitors planning a stay can therefore consider two different options: a road trip with several stops or excursions at sea. Local options range from guided trips around the islands to a full-day landing tour.
The Skellig Ring and the surrounding landscape
The Skellig Ring runs from Cahersiveen to Waterville via Valentia Island, Portmagee, St Finian’s Bay and Ballinskelligs. The route is about 50 km long. Without stops, the drive takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours; breaks and conditions affect the actual driving time. This makes it possible to plan the road route differently from a boat trip with a set stay on an island.
The Kerry Cliffs are about 3 km from the village of Portmagee. They rise over 1,000 feet and offer a viewpoint overlooking the Skellig Islands and Puffin Island. Skellig Michael is also home to the monastery of St Fionán. Beehive-shaped stone huts remain from the early monastic community. The monastic site is on the island, not in the village.
Boat trips with different time commitments
The Sea Tour from Skellig Michael Tours is a 2.5-hour guided boat trip around Skellig Michael and Little Skellig; it departs from Portmagee Marina. The tour includes sea caves, rock formations, a gannet colony, and commentary on history and wildlife. Puffins and seals are among the animals that may be seen, but sightings are not guaranteed: they can vary depending on the season and conditions.
The Landing Tour also departs from Portmagee Marina and is a full-day excursion. The crossing takes 45 minutes each way; guests spend about 2.5 hours on Skellig Michael. The operator lists a minimum age for the 2026 season. Check current availability and the age requirement before your trip.
When planning around your accommodation, it helps to compare these time commitments: the Sea Tour takes 2.5 hours, the Landing Tour takes a full day, and driving the Skellig Ring without stops takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. The road route and boat trips are therefore different elements to consider when planning your day.
Harbour tours, whiskey and local history
Visitors who want to get to know Portmagee better can take the Audio Visual Harbour Discovery Tour at the harbour. It starts at Portmagee Harbour and features audio commentary on local history, wildlife and points of interest. The Portmagee Domes Whiskey Tasting Tour offers a different perspective, covering the village’s smuggling history and fishing heritage and ending with a tasting of Portmagee whiskey. Tour offerings can change, so check the details before your visit.
Annual festivals and a summer market
The Old Year Festival has been celebrated in Portmagee every New Year’s Eve as a tradition since its first event in 1727. The May the 4th Sci-Fi Festival is also held in the village every year; exact programme details can vary from year to year. These two recurring events add different highlights to the annual calendar.
During the summer months, the Portmagee Farmers’ Market is held every Wednesday. Exact operating dates may vary from year to year. If a festival or the market is an important part of your travel plans, check the dates and programme details for the relevant year.
Information for boat travellers
The Portmagee Seasonal Visitors Pontoons serve local boats travelling to the Skellig Islands, as well as visiting yachts and RIBs from around Ireland. Facilities include electricity and water, toilets and recycling facilities. Seasonal pontoon arrangements may change, so check the information before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Castleisland, Milltown, Listowel, Farranfore, Waterville, Lispole, Knight’s Town, Kilgarvan.
For the broader travel overview: County Kerry.
