If you’re planning a trip to Ireland and want to see how the magic of whiskey and gin is crafted on a small, innovative scale, then the Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour in Tralee deserves a place on your list. This tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 30 reviews, and from what travelers say, it offers genuine insight into Irish spirit-making with a friendly, knowledgeable touch.
We’re particularly drawn to their award-winning reputation, having clinched the Double Gold at the International Spirit Challenge in London in 2022, and their passion for storytelling that makes the visit more than just another tasting. On the flip side, the tour’s approximate 50-minute duration means it’s a quick peek—not an in-depth, day-long experience—so it’s best suited for those with a busy schedule or a curiosity about small-batch distilling.
Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or just someone looking for an authentic taste of Irish craftsmanship, this tour provides a lively, visual, and aromatic journey through Ireland’s distilling traditions. Let’s explore what makes Skellig Six18 a standout experience and how it could fit into your Irish adventure.
Key Points
- Award-winning reputation with Double Gold at the International Spirit Challenge 2022
- Engaging local guides who weave stories, history, and humor into the tour
- Stunning views of the distillery setting, with aromatic tastings at the end
- Excellent value at around $27 for a guided, sensory experience
- Rich storytelling connecting Irish myths, local ingredients, and craftsmanship
- Small, manageable group size ensures a personalized experience
What Makes This Tour Special?
This distillery tour isn’t just about tasting spirits; it’s about understanding the art and science behind Irish gin and whiskey. The fully guided experience is led by local storytellers who bring passion and personality to each explanation. For travelers who appreciate authenticity and the human side of spirits production, this is a real treat.
What’s particularly appealing is the balance between education and entertainment. Guests aren’t just watching the process; they’re hearing stories—sometimes humorous, sometimes myth-based—that connect the distillery’s work to the larger tapestry of Irish culture. The reviews frequently mention guides like Shannon, Patricia, Trish, and Tony, who are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and approachable manner.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tralee.
The Itinerary: A Closer Look
The Distillery: Heart of the Experience
The tour begins at the Skellig Six18 Distillery, a place that combines modern craftsmanship with a genuine sense of local pride. Visitors are greeted with a warm welcome and guided through the working distillery’s sights, sounds, and aromas. This is not a static museum visit—here, you see the process unfold in front of you.
The distillery’s name, Six18, references local history, which guides the story from the start. Expect to learn how artisanal spirits are crafted using traditional Irish methods, but with a modern twist. The environment is friendly and intimate, designed to give the sense of being part of a small, passionate business.
Exploring the Spirit-Making Process
Guides will walk you through the making of their artisanal gin and Atlantic-aged whiskeys. These spirits are made with local herbs and ground aromatics, which you’ll learn about with descriptive explanations and fragrant samples. One reviewer describes the experience as “great fun, with detailed explanations about Irish whisky manufacturing and gin production,” which highlights how accessible and engaging the process is.
The Tasting Experience
The tour concludes with a tasting of premium spirits, carefully selected based on the tour package. Travelers report that the tastings are generous and well explained, elevating the experience from simple sipping to understanding how the ingredients and distillation influence flavor. One reviewer remarked that the gin was “the best I’ve ever tasted,” emphasizing the quality and distinctiveness of Skellig Six18 products.
What Travelers Say About the Guides
From multiple reviews, guides like Shannon, Patricia, Trish, and Tony consistently receive high praise. Words like “enthusiastic,” “knowledgeable,” and “passionate” appear often. Many reviewers comment on how guides use maps, plants, scents, and stories to make the experience memorable.
One traveler said, “Trish was warm and so knowledgeable,” while another mentioned, “Tony showed us drone footage of the Skelligs and the town, which made the tour even more engaging.” This personalized approach makes the tour feel less like a lecture and more like a friendly visit with a knowledgeable friend.
The Value and Practicalities
At around $27.27 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. For just under half an hour, you gain insight into Irish spirits, taste a selection of premium liquors, and enjoy a lively storytelling session. The tour is mobile-ticket enabled, making it quick and convenient to book in advance—most travelers book about 3 to 4 months ahead, showing its popularity.
The group size tends to be small, ensuring everyone gets personal attention. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and most can participate, making it accessible.
While the tour’s duration is relatively short, reviews suggest that the quality of the experience more than compensates for the limited time. It’s an excellent option for a quick cultural and culinary fix, especially if you’re in Kerry and want to learn about local spirits in a friendly setting.
Summary of the Experience
What sets Skellig Six18 apart is its ability to blend craftsmanship, storytelling, and scenery into a compact package. Visitors rave about guides like Shannon and Trish, who make the process lively and approachable. The tastings are a highlight—many mention the quality and local ingredients—and the storytelling connects the spirits’ flavors directly to Irish traditions and the Skellig coast.
The setting, with its views of the town and the coast, combined with the aromatic, hands-on experience, makes this tour memorable. Plus, the small group size means you’re not just another face in the crowd but a part of the story.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for spirits lovers, curious travelers, or anyone interested in Irish culture. It’s especially well-suited for those who value authenticity and a personal touch. Since it’s a shorter tour, it fits nicely into a day of sightseeing without taking up too much time—perfect if you’re exploring Kerry or Tralee.
If you’re after a deeper understanding of Irish whiskey and gin with friendly guides and good value for money, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also an excellent way to support local entrepreneurs and learn about Ireland’s craft industry.
Final Thoughts
Skellig Six18 Distillery Tours manage to deliver more than just a tasting—they offer a glimpse into Irish spirit-making with passionate guides, engaging stories, and high-quality products. The award-winning reputation and consistent praise for guides like Shannon and Trish underscore the personal touch that makes this experience stand out.
While it’s a quick visit, the value and authenticity make it a worthwhile addition to any Kerry itinerary. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or just curious about Irish spirits, the tour promises a friendly, flavorful, and educational experience worth your time.
FAQs About Skellig Six18 Distillery Tours
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including those with service animals. It’s designed to be accessible and engaging for a broad audience.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, making it a perfect quick stop rather than a full-day excursion.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a fully guided visit of the distillery, a detailed explanation of the production process, and a tasting of premium spirits.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 105 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Booking ensures you secure a spot and can choose your preferred date.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled visit, allowing flexibility if needed.
Are the spirits tasted at the end of the tour local?
Absolutely. The gin and whiskeys are crafted on-site using local herbs and ingredients, emphasizing Irish craftsmanship.
Is this experience worth the cost?
Based on reviews and the quality of the guides, tastings, and storytelling, it offers excellent value for the price. It’s a memorable, authentic experience that gives you a real taste of Irish spirit-making.
In essence, Skellig Six18 Distillery Tours combine passion, expertise, and local flavor into a compelling snapshot of Irish craft. If you’re eager for a lively, authentic, and reasonably priced experience in Kerry, this tour hits the mark.