Saltee Islands
Na Sailtí
Privately owned seabird islands off the south coast of Wexford. In summer, boats leave from Kilmore Quay, and you can see gannets, puffins and grey seals up close.
The Saltee Islands consist of Great Saltee and Little Saltee, about 4 to 5 km off the coast. They are among Ireland's most important seabird breeding grounds. Great Saltee is privately owned, but the owners allow visitors ashore during the day (roughly 11:30 to 16:30; overnight stays are not allowed). On the cliffs at the south end of the island are thousands of gannets, puffins, guillemots and razorbills, and grey seals often gather along the shore. To land, book a local boat from Kilmore Quay in County Wexford. The boat ride takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and trips are canceled in rough seas. The island has no facilities, so bring your own water and food, wear non-slip shoes, and stay away from cliff edges and nests. Kilmore Quay is about 75 km by road from Waterford. You can cross the river on the Ballyhack ferry and combine the trip with the Hook Peninsula on the same day.
Opening hours
Approx. April–September daytime landings (11:30–16:30), depending on weather and ferry schedule
Nearby sights
- Tintern Abbey (Wexford)
- Hook Lighthouse
- Dunmore East
- Dunbrody Famine Ship
- Reginald's Tower
- House of Waterford Crystal
- Medieval Museum
- Christ Church Cathedral