Little Skellig

Overview

Little Skellig (Irish: Sceilig Bheag) is the smaller sibling of the famous Skellig Michael. It sits about 11 km off the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, rising sharply from the Atlantic as a dark, almost black, crag. The island is a protected nature reserve and, unlike its neighbour, has never been inhabited. Its most striking feature is the massive colony of northern gannets – over 35,000 breeding pairs – making it the largest gannet colony in Ireland and one of the biggest in the world. Seals, guillemots, puffins and a host of other seabirds also use the island as a breeding ground, creating a dramatic wildlife spectacle that can only be appreciated from the sea.

History & Background

The Skellig islands were formed during the Late Devonian period, roughly 374–360 million years ago, as part of the same mountain‑building event that created the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Rising sea levels eventually isolated the rocky outcrops from the mainland. Little Skellig has always remained a wild, inhospitable rock; there is no record of permanent settlement, and the island has never supported a human community. In 2000 BirdWatch Ireland designated the twin islands as a 364‑hectare Important Bird Area, and Little Skellig was formally declared a nature reserve. The protection status means that landing on the island is prohibited – the aim is to keep the bird colonies undisturbed.

Geology & Landscape

The island consists of jagged basaltic pinnacles that rise up to 134 metres above sea level, a striking contrast to the surrounding Atlantic. Its sheer cliffs provide ideal nesting ledges for seabirds and create a dramatic backdrop for photographers. The rock is part of the same Devonian formation that underpins the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, giving the Skelligs a shared geological heritage.

Wildlife Highlights

• Northern Gannets – around 35,000 breeding pairs, the largest colony in Ireland. Their synchronized take‑offs and spectacular plunge‑dives are the main draw.
• Puffins – present from late April to early August; they nest in burrows on the island’s lower ledges and are best seen in early summer.
• Guillemots, Razorbills & Kittiwakes – occupy the higher cliffs and add colour to the aerial display.
• Seals & Dolphins – grey seals often haul out on the rocks, and pods of dolphins are frequently sighted on the surrounding waters.
• Basking Sharks – occasional summer visitors, adding an extra marine‑life thrill.

What to See & Do

While you cannot set foot on Little Skellig, the surrounding waters offer a front‑row seat to one of Ireland’s most spectacular seabird colonies. Boat operators from Portmagee (and occasionally from Valentia and Ballinskelligs) run dedicated shuttle trips that circle the island, allowing passengers to watch thousands of gannets swoop and dive in a coordinated aerial ballet. The sheer cliffs provide nesting ledges for guillemots, puffins and other seabirds, while seals often lounge on the rocks below. The island’s dark basaltic façade contrasts sharply with the white‑capped birds, creating striking photographic opportunities from the deck of the vessel.

The open Atlantic around Little Skellig is a playground for marine life; occasional sightings of dolphins, grey seals and even basking sharks add an extra layer of excitement. Because the island is a protected reserve, the boat routes are carefully managed to keep a respectful distance from the nesting sites, ensuring that the wildlife remains undisturbed.

Visiting Tips

• Book in advance – summer is peak season and the number of daily trips is limited. Most operators accept online reservations.
• Timing – early morning departures (10:00–11:00 am) give the best light for birdwatching; the return is usually mid‑afternoon (15:00–16:00 pm).
• What to bring – binoculars, a wind‑proof jacket, sturdy shoes, water and snacks (there are no facilities on the island). Sunscreen and a hat are advisable in summer.
• Photography – the best light is early morning or late afternoon when the sun is low; a telephoto lens helps capture the gannets in flight.
• Parking – free car parking is available at the Portmagee harbour. Arrive early in the high season to secure a space.
• Accessibility – the boat trips are wheelchair‑accessible on most operators, but the sea can be rough; check with the provider.
• Conservation – keep a respectful distance, avoid loud noises, and do not litter. Donations to BirdWatch Ireland are welcomed.

Practical Information

Getting there – The most common departure point is the harbour town of Portmagee, a scenic stop on the Ring of Kerry. Licensed operators also run tours from Valentia and Ballinskelligs. The journey to Little Skellig takes about 15–30 minutes depending on sea conditions.

Cost – Boat tours range from €30 to €50 per person; the price usually includes an optional stop at Skellig Michael. The reserve itself is free to view, and donations to BirdWatch Ireland are encouraged.

Season & weather – Tours operate from May to early October, when sea conditions are most favourable. Services are weather‑dependent and may be cancelled in rough seas.

Facilities – There are no toilets, cafés or shops on Little Skellig. All amenities are located in Portmagee.

Conservation note – As a designated nature reserve, Little Skellig is off‑limits to landing, and visitors are asked to keep a respectful distance from the bird colonies. The boat crews are experienced in navigating the often‑rough waters and will ensure that the vessel stays clear of the nesting cliffs.

Useful table

The Skellig Islands, including Little Skellig, form a key point on the Wild Atlantic Way and are a highlight for bird‑watchers, marine‑life enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates raw, untouched coastal scenery. Whether you are cruising the Atlantic for a day or combining the trip with a visit to the UNESCO‑listed Skellig Michael, the sight of thousands of gannets wheeling over the black rock is an unforgettable reminder of Ireland’s wild heritage.