I’m sitting down with nature enthusiast Mike Unwin to discuss his recent journey along Ireland’s stunning Kerry coast, a region now recognized as a protected haven for wildlife—and sometimes, even a Jedi knight.

“Mike, can you describe your first encounter on Skellig Michael when you found the European storm petrel chick?”

“That was truly a memorable moment! I was crouching inside a beehive hut—an ancient structure that once housed monks 1,400 years ago. Looking through a crack in the floor, I spotted a fluffy baby seabird, its little eye sparkling in the dim light. It’s quite rare to see storm petrel chicks, as they usually nest on remote, uninhabited islands. I decided to give it some privacy and stepped outside to take in the breathtaking views from that stunning rocky outcrop in the Atlantic.”

“What makes Skellig Michael so special today, and why do you think it attracts Star Wars fans?”

“It’s incredible! The island’s rugged cliffs were the backdrop for Luke Skywalker’s sanctuary in Star Wars, which has certainly drawn many fans. But beyond its Hollywood fame, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site and has recently become the centerpiece of Ireland’s first marine park. The combination of its natural beauty and rich cultural history really sets it apart. Those monks once saw it as the very edge of the world.”

“Can you describe the marine life you encountered during your visit?”

“Of course! The Kerry Seas National Park spans about 70,000 acres and is bursting with life. I was lucky enough to spot basking sharks and dolphins, and I had a great conversation with guide Catherine Merrigan about the puffins that normally breed there. Although they were out at sea during my visit, she was very enthusiastic about the other seabirds, especially the nocturnal storm petrels and their unique calls.”

“What was your adventure like getting to the island?”

“I joined a tour with Skellig Coast Adventures. The weather was surprisingly calm that day, which the skipper’s mate, Ger O’Sullivan, dubbed a ‘pet day.’ On our way to Skellig Michael, we passed by Little Skellig, home to Europe’s third-largest gannet colony—a breathtaking sight!”

“I’ve heard that the whale-watching opportunities along the Kerry coast are impressive. What was your experience like?”

“It’s truly a prime spot for whale watching! I spent a couple of days searching for humpback whales, especially excited about spotting them in late summer and autumn. Although I didn’t see any during my trip out of Kinsale, I had an exhilarating experience with a variety of seabirds and a pod of dolphins. There was even the wreck of the Lusitania just offshore, which added a historical twist to the trip.”

“After leaving Skellig Michael, what else did your adventure lead you to?”

“After Skellig, I drove to Dingle. Even though the weather kept the boats in the harbor, I encountered incredible marine life at the OceanWorld Aquarium, where I met a loggerhead turtle named Molly—a true reminder of the sea’s surprises. In the evening, the local pub scene was vibrant with music—guitars and cellos filled the air.”

“Lastly, let’s talk about the breathtaking landscapes you experienced along the Dingle Peninsula.”

“Driving along the Dingle Peninsula was absolutely mesmerizing! The mist rolling over the mountains and the constantly shifting light on the ocean created stunning vistas at every turn. I was always on the lookout for whale spouts, and just as I reached the western tip, I was treated to a beautiful display of nature, which was thrilling even if it wasn’t exactly what I had initially hoped to see.”

“It sounds like an unforgettable journey, Mike. Any final thoughts on the importance of preserving such natural wonders?”

“Absolutely! It’s crucial that we protect these incredible natural and cultural heritages for future generations. We should cherish the stories of the communities that once thrived here, along with the area’s biodiversity. The recent establishment of the marine park is a significant step in the right direction.”