A day trip to the Skellig Islands is an absolute must do if you are able. It was the highlight of our 3 week trip to Ireland. The trip and the climb are not easy, but the rewards are spectacular, but be warned; you WILL need the following:

1) Seasickness pills. Even my roller-coaster loving wife, who NEVER gets motion sick was a little queasy by the time we arrived at the island. This was on a "calm" day with the swells running "only" 15 feet. (Keep in mind your transportation is a 25 foot fishing boat).

2) Sure footedness. The landing site is not well sheltered, and getting from a heaving unsecured boat onto the narrow concrete stair (and back again) should NOT be attempted by anyone who is at all unsteady on their feet.

3) Moderate physical fitness. We're not exactly in top physical condition, but neither are we full-time couch potatoes. The climb to the monastery definately pushed our abilites. The monastery is about 700 feet above sea level, most of that via steep, narrow and uneven stairs.

4) Luck. This might be the most important. Because of the unsheltered landing area on the island (see #2 above) boats can only go in good weather. Even if it is sunny, if there is any significant wind, the boats will not go.

Having said all that, I hope I haven't scared you off because if you can go it is an utterly fantastic day. It would be worth the trip just to see the islands and the birds and the view from the top, but the 1400 year old monastery is absolutely incredible. We feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to do this.