Skellig Six18 Distillery Tours

If you’re wandering through Tralee and happen to stumble upon Skellig Six18 Distillery, you’ll find yourself in a spot that’s quickly earned a reputation for more than just its spirits. This tour doesn’t just show you how gin and whiskey are made; it offers a genuine peek into Irish craftsmanship, local stories, and the passion of entrepreneurs who are proud of their roots. With a 5.0-star rating from 30 reviews and a perfect 100% recommendation rate, it’s clear this experience hits the right notes.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines engaging storytelling with a detailed look at how their spirits are crafted. Led by knowledgeable guides like Trish or Shannon, it feels less like a corporate presentation and more like visiting a friend’s working distillery. Plus, the stunning views of Cahersiveen and the Skellig coast add a visual treat. On the flip side, the tour lasts around 50 minutes, which might leave some craving a little more time among the barrels or perhaps a longer tasting session.

This experience is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone interested in Irish culture and local businesses. If you’re after a personal touch, a behind-the-scenes look at distilling, or a chance to taste some high-quality gin and whiskey, this tour offers excellent value. Just keep in mind that booking about 3 to 4 months in advance is recommended, given how popular it is.

Key Points

• Award-winning reputation with a Double Gold at the 2022 International Spirits Challenge.
• Engaging guides who share local stories, history, and humor.
• Authentic tasting of premium spirits made on-site, with varying options based on the tour package.
• Accessible for most travelers, including service animals, with a straightforward booking system.
• Excellent value at around $27 per person for an immersive and memorable experience.
• Stunning scenic backdrop of Cahersiveen and the Skellig Coast enhances the visit.

The Tour Experience: What to Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour is designed to give you a comprehensive yet personal look at Irish spirits production. The tour lasts about 50 minutes, which makes it perfect for those with limited time but still eager to learn and taste.

Starting point: Skellig Six18 Distillery
Here, your guides—most notably Trish or Shannon—will greet you warmly, setting a friendly, enthusiastic tone right from the start. Expect a fully guided, behind-the-scenes look at the distillery, where the craft of gin and whiskey is alive and well.

Exploring the Heart of the Distillery

The core of the experience is a walkthrough of the production process, where guides weave in stories of the local area, the origins of the distillery’s name, and how they incorporate Irish traditions. A reviewer noted that Shannon’s storytelling was “delightful,” making the technical process accessible and fun. You’ll see the sights, sounds, and aromas of a working distillery—an experience that’s especially engaging if you enjoy sensory details such as the smell of botanicals and the sight of barrels aging.

Delving into Irish Heritage and Myths

The guides do more than just explain; they tell stories. One reviewer mentioned that her tour with Patricia was “very interesting,” and she learned about Irish whiskey’s manufacturing methods alongside local myths and humor. The storytelling style makes the experience memorable, turning technical details into engaging anecdotes.

Tasting the Spirits

The tour culminates in a spirit tasting—a real highlight. Depending on your tour package, you might sample the distillery’s premium gin and whiskeys, which are already gaining notoriety for their quality. Reviewers repeatedly applauded the tasting, with many noting the spirits’ exceptional flavor profiles, especially given that the distillery is still relatively new.

A reviewer praised that “the gin has never tasted such quality,” and others appreciated the chance to taste alongside the explanations, making the flavor profiles more meaningful. The tasting session is not rushed, allowing plenty of time to savor each sip and ask questions.

The Guides: Knowledge and Personality

Guides like Trish and Shannon are consistently praised for their enthusiasm, expertise, and personable approach. They share more than just facts—they bring the stories of Cahersiveen and the Skellig coast to life. Several reviews mention how guides used maps, local herbs, and scents to enhance the experience, making it sensory as well as educational.

One reviewer called Shannon “enthusiastic,” and another appreciated Patricia’s “detailed explanation about the distillery history, the manufacturing method, and local aromatics.” It’s clear these guides are passionate about the product and the region, which makes the tour more authentic and engaging.

Value and Booking Considerations

For $27.27 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of the spirits, the engaging storytelling, and the scenic setting. The fact that it’s fully guided and lasts nearly an hour means you’re getting a lot of information and experience for not much cost.

Booking about 105 days in advance is typical, reflecting its popularity. You receive a mobile ticket, making it convenient, and the full refund policy if canceled more than 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

While the tour’s duration is just under an hour, some visitors might wish for a slightly longer experience or a follow-up tasting session, but overall, most reviewers felt it was perfectly timed.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book early—this tour is popular and tends to fill up months in advance.
• Arrive a few minutes early to enjoy the scenic surroundings or ask your guide additional questions.
• If you’re not a gin or whiskey drinker, don’t worry—many reviewers, even those less interested in spirits, found the tour educational and enjoyable.
• Consider combining this tour with local sightseeing, like a trip to Skellig Michael, as many visitors do.
• The tour is accessible for most travelers, including those with service animals.

Who Should Do This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you enjoy learning about local products and appreciate a personal storytelling approach. Spirits fans will appreciate the high-quality tastings, while those interested in Irish culture will enjoy the stories about the region and the distillery’s origins. It’s also perfect for travelers seeking a short, meaningful cultural activity that balances education, scenery, and taste.

In short, whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or just someone curious about Irish craftsmanship, you’ll find this tour memorable—and worth the price.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. The Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Irish spirits production, guided by passionate experts. The stunning scenery, combined with engaging storytelling and high-quality tastings, makes this a highlight for anyone visiting Tralee. It’s a wonderful way to support a local business while gaining insight into Ireland’s spirited heritage.

If you’re after a personal experience, good value, and a taste of Ireland’s craft—this tour checks all the boxes. It suits curious travelers, spirits enthusiasts, or those simply eager for a fun, cultural activity that’s as educational as it is enjoyable.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Most travelers can participate, and the focus on spirits might make it less appealing for children or non-drinkers. However, the storytelling, local insights, and scenic views can still make it worthwhile for those not drinking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, which makes it a manageable activity within a busy sightseeing day.

Is booking required?
Yes, it’s recommended to book in advance, as the experience is popular and often booked out several months ahead.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the guided tour of the distillery, access to see the production process, and a tasting of the spirits. The package may vary slightly depending on the selected option.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours before the scheduled tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are the spirits available for purchase after the tour?
While not explicitly stated, many visitors are interested in buying bottles of Skellig Six18 spirits after tasting. You might find this option at the distillery or nearby outlets.

Is the distillery accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to contact the distillery directly for special accommodations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended, and since you’ll be walking through the production area, closed-toe shoes might be preferred.

Whether you’re a whiskey lover or just enjoy discovering local stories, the Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour promises a warm welcome, genuine craftsmanship, and a memorable taste of Ireland’s spirit scene.