Ring of Kerry , Ireland

The Valentia Island Experience

Active

(44 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Set sail on a thrilling journey along the Wild Atlantic Way with Aqua Terra Boat Tours, your gateway to the best of Kerry’s coastal tours.

Our Valentia Island cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the enchantment of Valentia Island from the unique perspective of the water’s edge.

This 1.5-hour adventure combines the thrill of speed with the awe of exploration, bringing you face-to-face with the rich history, mysterious caves, dramatic cliffs, and diverse wildlife on one of Ireland’s most picturesque landscape

Available options

The Valentia Island Experience

What's included

Private transportation

Detailed itinerary

The captain and crew are not just navigators of the sea but storytellers of the land. They bring to life the legends, history, and natural wonders of Valentia Island, making your tour a truly immersive experience.

Discover from the water's edge, a 6th-century Monastery on Church Island, which was used by Skelligs Monks surrounded by the safety of Valentia Harbour.
Then continue to learn of the Viking's invasion of the Skellig Coast who then developed a village on the neighbouring Beginish Island where ruins remain today.

Stop 3 Pass by

At speed admire the castle from the river of Cahersiveen to be transported back in time to when the High Kings of Ireland built their mighty castles and fought blooding battles to keep their lands.

Following the stunning views of the majestic coastline of Beginish Island and Valentia, the Captain will then lead the tour to the white walls of Valentia Island Lighthouse.
Originally a Cromwellan Fort but today a working Lighthouse, this corner of the island overlooking Dingle Bay has stories dating back to the 17th century and before. Sit and watch the waves crashing on the rocks below while listening to the stories of shipwrecks, Pirates and more.

The last part of the harbour adventure glides guests past the seaside village of Knightstown village which was once a bustling waterfront with the operation of the Transatlantic Telegraph Cable that was laid from Valentia Harbour to the shores of Newfoundland, Canada in 1866. Discover how two men came together to change the world and communication that finally put the small island of Valentia on the map forever.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

44 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please wait at the pier. Public parking is available on the pier or the roadside before the restaurant and in front of the Kerry Fish Factory. Eirecode for Google Maps assistance when going to the seafront/ticket office area - V23 HK06

About Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive in County Kerry, Ireland, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. This 179-kilometer route takes you through mountains, coastal cliffs, and ancient ruins, offering a quintessential Irish experience.

Top Attractions

Killarney National Park

A vast and beautiful national park featuring lakes, mountains, and woodlands.

Nature Half to full day Free

Skellig Michael

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient monastic settlement on a steep, rocky island.

Historical Full day (including boat trip) Moderate (boat tour required)

Gap of Dunloe

A dramatic glacial valley offering breathtaking views and scenic walks.

Nature Half to full day Moderate (depending on activities)

Ross Castle

A 15th-century castle located on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee applies)

Sneem

A picturesque village known for its colorful houses and vibrant arts scene.

Cultural A few hours Free (except for any purchases or meals)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions

Dinner Contains meat

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh local seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns

Dinner Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with buttermilk and baking soda

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Irish Coffee

A warm and comforting drink made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and whipped cream

Drink Contains alcohol, dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Cycling Boat tours Scenic drives Spa treatments Picnicking Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time with pleasant weather, long daylight hours, and vibrant cultural events.

15-20°C 59-68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or IST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Ring of Kerry is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi services
• Be cautious when walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

Kerry Airport • 15 km from Killarney
Shannon Airport • 120 km from Killarney

By train

Killarney Train Station

By bus

Killarney Bus Station, Tralee Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but not as frequent as in larger cities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Killarney Kenmare Portmagee

Day trips

Dingle Peninsula

80 km from Killarney • Full day

A scenic peninsula offering stunning coastal views, charming villages, and ancient sites.

Gap of Dunloe

20 km from Killarney • Half to full day

A dramatic glacial valley offering breathtaking views and scenic walks.

Skellig Michael

80 km from Killarney • Full day (including boat trip)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient monastic settlement on a steep, rocky island.

Festivals

Puck Fair • August Kerry Bog Festival • Early September Killarney Food and Drink Festival • October

Pro tips

Start your journey early to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
Pack layers and rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Try local specialties like seafood chowder and Irish stew.
Visit Skellig Michael early in the day for the best experience and to avoid crowds.
Explore the Gap of Dunloe for stunning views and a unique perspective on the area.