Skellig Six18 Distillery Tours

If you’re heading to Tralee or nearby Cahersiveen, it’s hard to ignore the buzz about the Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour. This highly rated experience offers a deep dive into the craft of Irish spirits, combining storytelling, hands-on insight, and excellent tastings—all wrapped within a lively, personal atmosphere.

What grabs our attention? First, the award-winning status—the tour snagged a double gold at the 2022 International Spirits Challenge. Second, the local storytelling, which makes the visit feel more like hanging out with friends than a formal lesson. And third, the spectacular sights of the working distillery, which provides a genuine behind-the-scenes look at how gin and whiskey are made.

One potential consideration? The tour lasts about 50 minutes, so if you prefer longer, more leisurely experiences, you might want to supplement this visit with additional activities.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who love authentic tales, spirits enthusiasts eager to taste premium Irish gin and whiskey, or anyone simply looking for a memorable, well-priced experience in the Kerry region.

Good To Know

• Award-winning reputation: Recognized with Double Gold at the 2022 International Spirits Challenge.
• Authentic storytelling: Led by passionate local guides sharing myths, history, and humor.
• Hands-on experience: Explore the sights, sounds, and aromas of a working distillery.
• Tastings included: Sample the distillery’s premium spirits, with options depending on your package.
• Great value: At $27.27 per person, the tour delivers a rich experience for the price.
• Book in advance: Most travelers plan approximately 105 days ahead, so early booking is recommended.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the Skellig Six18 Distillery itself, the tour kicks off with a guided walk through the working space—a chance to see firsthand how artisanal gin and Atlantic-aged whiskeys are crafted. Visitors are transported into a world of aromas, sights, and sounds, which makes the experience more immersive than just listening to a guide. The attention to detail in the distillery’s setup means you’ll also pick up on subtle hints of the local ingredients and traditional techniques that set their spirits apart.

A consistent theme across reviews is the skill and passion of the guides. For example, Shannon and Trish are mentioned as enthusiastic, knowledgeable hosts who make the experience lively and engaging. One reviewer highlighted Shannon’s passion, saying she made the tour “really enjoyable and interesting.” Others appreciated Trish’s deep knowledge about whiskey and gin, noting that her explanations made complex processes easy to understand.

The storytelling element adds a layer of charm. Guides weave myths, the history of Cahersiveen, and humorous anecdotes into the tour, making it as entertaining as it is educational. You might find yourself chuckling at local stories or surprised by the fun facts about Irish spirits.

Tasting and Final Impressions

The tour culminates in a spirit tasting, which varies based on the selected package. Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the spirits, with one mentioning the gin’s “unmatched quality” and the whiskeys already being excellent despite the distillery’s relative youth. Tasting sessions are described as both informative and enjoyable, allowing guests to connect the flavors directly with the storytelling.

Guests also appreciate the value for money. For just over 27 dollars, you get a guided, interactive experience with tastings included, which many consider an excellent deal compared to other similar tours. The small group size, often praised as “personal,” helps create an intimate setting where questions are encouraged, and stories flow naturally.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about 50 minutes, making it perfect for travelers with tight schedules or those looking to add a cultural activity without a huge time commitment. The mobile ticket feature adds convenience, and most travelers can participate, including service animals. Booking in advance is recommended, especially since most visitors plan around 105 days ahead.

The price point is attractive. At $27.27, it’s an accessible experience that offers a lot of value—especially considering the personalized storytelling, the chance to see a working distillery, and the opportunity to taste premium spirits.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

From detailed feedback, it’s clear that the guides really shine. Shannon and Trish are described as “enthusiastic,” “knowledgeable,” and “passionate,” making the tour both educational and fun. One guest noted that Trish used maps, plants, and scents to tell the story of whiskey-making, turning the process into a sensory experience.

Guests also find the local stories and the way the distillery incorporates Irish myth and humor particularly memorable. One reviewer called the guide “the perfect ambassador” for the brand, emphasizing how her warmth and expertise made the experience special.

The spirits themselves seem to impress; even those who aren’t big whiskey or gin fans leave with a newfound appreciation, thanks to the approachable storytelling and tasting sessions.

Highlights from reviews include:

• The “detailed visit” with explanations about Irish whiskey manufacturing.
• The inclusion of local herbs and aromatics in gin production, adding a unique flavor dimension.
• A personalized feel that makes each visitor feel valued and engaged.
• The visuals and stories that make whiskey-making come alive, especially with drone footage and maps.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience hits the sweet spot of authenticity and fun. Unlike larger, impersonal tours, Skellig Six18 offers an intimate look at Irish spirits in a welcoming setting. The knowledgeable guides, like Shannon, Trish, and Tony, are the backbone, sharing their passion and making complex processes accessible.

The spectacular sights—from the distillery environment to the drone footage of Skelligs—are memorable. The tastings are generous and premium quality, providing real value for a modest price. Plus, the storytelling approach means you walk away not just with spirits, but with stories to tell.

Who will love this?

• Travelers seeking authentic Irish spirits experiences.
• Those interested in local stories and culture.
• Spirit enthusiasts wanting to deepen their knowledge.
• Visitors on a budget looking for quality experiences.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour offers a balanced, engaging, and authentic glimpse into Irish spirits. For just over $27, you get more than a quick look—you gain insights from passionate guides, taste premium spirits, and leave with a new appreciation for Irish craftsmanship. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, memorable, and value-packed experience.

If you’re curious about Irish whiskey and gin, or simply looking for a fun way to connect with local culture, this tour is a smart choice. The friendly guides, captivating stories, and well-curated tastings make it a standout activity in the Tralee area.

However, if you prefer longer, more leisurely tours or want to explore multiple distilleries, you might consider combining this experience with other activities. Still, for a concise, high-quality visit, Skellig Six18 delivers on its promise of fun, flavor, and authenticity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including those with service animals. The tour is designed to be accessible and engaging for a wide audience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, making it an easy addition to your day without taking up too much time.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price (around $27.27) covers the guided tour, spirits tasting, and the chance to explore the distillery environment firsthand.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book early, as most visitors plan about 105 days ahead. The experience offers mobile tickets for convenience.

Can I visit with a group?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for most groups, and guides tend to tailor the experience to make everyone feel comfortable and included.

What spirits can I expect to taste?
Depending on the tour package you choose, you’ll sample premium Irish spirits, including gin and Atlantic-aged whiskeys.

Are the spirits locally produced?
Yes, all spirits are crafted on-site, with a focus on local ingredients and traditional Irish methods.

Is there any age restriction?
While not explicitly stated, spirits tastings are generally aimed at legal drinking age visitors, so plan accordingly.

In summary, the Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour stands out as a well-rounded, authentic Irish spirits experience. With passionate guides, stunning visuals, and delicious tastings, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to learn about Irish whiskey and gin in a friendly, personal setting. Perfect for curious visitors, spirits aficionados, or anyone looking for a memorable taste of Irish craftsmanship.