Do You REALLY Have to Pay 1000 Crowns to Get to Skellige in The Witcher 3?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, initially, you absolutely have to pay 1000 crowns to get to Skellige for the first time in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Think of it as a hefty toll for a turbulent boat ride to the beautiful, yet often unforgiving, isles. This is your entry fee to a land of vikings, monsters, and political intrigue that shapes the main game’s ending. But don’t fret! There are ways to soften the financial blow, and some players even get the gold back almost immediately.
The Initial Investment: Why 1000 Crowns?
The 1000 crown price tag serves as a gatekeeper, ensuring you’re at least somewhat prepared for the challenges Skellige throws your way. The game suggests being at level 16 or higher before venturing there, and accumulating that sum of money likely means you’ve already tackled a fair amount of contracts and quests in Velen/Novigrad. It isn’t a hard and fast rule, but an indication of the trials awaiting you.
Getting the Gold: Options Available
Now, let’s talk about obtaining those crucial crowns. You have a few options:
- The Honest Way: Completing side quests, monster contracts, and selling loot are the standard methods. Explore Velen and Novigrad thoroughly. Every notice board offers opportunities for Geralt to earn money. The side quests are the true heart of the Witcher 3 and will make you richer on levels and in your pocket!
- Vimme Vivaldi’s Loan: If you’re eager to get to Skellige quickly, you can take out a loan from Vimme Vivaldi in Novigrad. This allows you to bypass the initial grind, although you’ll eventually need to repay the debt. You can find him near the Hierarch Square.
- The…Fortuitous (Spoilers Ahead!) Way: Upon arriving in Skellige, your voyage takes an unexpected turn. (Spoiler alert!) The ship crashes. And the boat captain dies. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: loot the captain’s body on the shore! You’ll often find your 1000 crowns returned to you. This makes the initial payment more of a temporary deposit.
The Golden Sturgeon: Your Gateway to the Isles
To initiate your journey, head to the docks in Novigrad. The key is finding Captain Wolverstone at the Golden Sturgeon. He’s the man with the ship and the connection to get you to Skellige. Talking to him is vital to starting the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Traveling to Skellige
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate your journey to the Skellige Isles:
How much does it REALLY cost to go to Skellige?
Officially, it costs 1000 crowns for the boat passage from Novigrad. However, as mentioned, you have a good chance of recouping this cost shortly after arriving in Skellige (though it’s not guaranteed, depending on how thorough the loot drops are). Consider it a temporary investment, or a small down payment for the adventures ahead.
How do I get to Skellige for the first time without paying?
Unfortunately, there’s no legitimate way to reach Skellige for the first time without paying the initial 1000 crowns or taking a loan. However, if you’re playing on PC, mods might offer alternative solutions, but this isn’t recommended for a first playthrough.
Can you sail to Skellige yourself in a boat?
No, you can’t freely sail to Skellige with a boat you find in the world. You will need to use the fast travel mechanic to get to Skellige and travel between isles.
What’s the minimum level I should be before going to Skellige?
The game suggests a minimum level of 16. While you can technically go earlier, the enemies and quests in Skellige are designed for players at that level and higher. You’ll likely face a significantly tougher challenge if you arrive under-leveled.
How can I quickly get 1000 crowns in The Witcher 3?
Fast ways to earn crowns include:
- Completing Witcher Contracts: These often offer substantial rewards.
- Gwent: If you’re good at Gwent, you can win crowns from other players.
- Looting and Selling: Explore thoroughly and sell your unwanted items to merchants.
- Quest Rewards: Prioritize quests that offer monetary rewards.
Can I go to Skellige for free after my first visit?
After your initial journey, you can fast travel to and from Skellige at any time without paying. The 1000 crowns are a one-time fee for opening up the region.
Does sailing to Skellige affect any quests in Velen/Novigrad?
No, traveling to Skellige doesn’t automatically fail any quests in Velen or Novigrad. You can freely return to those areas via fast travel after reaching Skellige. The only thing that will cause you to fail a quest is progressing through certain main story quests.
How do I unlock the Skellige Gwent deck?
You can start obtaining the Skellige Gwent deck in the Blood and Wine DLC, specifically in Toussaint. Defeating merchants and craftsmen in Gwent will award you Skellige cards and unlock the “Gwent: Never Fear, Skellige’s Here” and “Gwent: To Everything – Turn, Turn, Tournament!” quests.
Should I clear Novigrad before heading to Skellige?
Whether or not you should clear Novigrad before going to Skellige is up to you. Your progression in either area will not impact the other.
Should I pay the man in Skellige after helping him?
(Spoilers) After a side quest in Skellige, you’ll be given a choice to let a man go free or turn him in. Letting him go will result in a later reward of 200 crowns, making it the more profitable choice.
Where is Skellige located in real life?
Skellige is heavily inspired by Ireland, particularly the Skellig Islands. The landscapes, architecture, and overall atmosphere reflect the wild beauty of the Irish coast.
Is Skellige a DLC?
No, Skellige is part of the base game of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. However, the Skellige Gwent deck was added with the Blood and Wine DLC.
Do I have to pay the captain EVERY time I want to go to Skellige?
No, you only pay the 1000 crowns for your initial voyage to Skellige. After that, you can freely fast travel between the mainland and the isles.
Who should I choose to rule Skellige?
The choice of who rules Skellige (Cerys, Hjalmar, or Svanringe) is a major decision that impacts the game’s ending. For many, Cerys is considered the best option, as she prioritizes the well-being of her people and brings about a more sustainable future for the isles. However, the ideal choice depends on your own values and desired outcome. Your actions during their quests will determine the outcome.
Is Skellige bigger than Toussaint?
Skellige is comparable in size to Toussaint if you’re only considering landmass. However, if you include the navigable waters surrounding the Skellige isles, it feels significantly larger.
The Bottom Line: Paying is a Rite of Passage
While the 1000 crown fee might seem steep, it’s a necessary hurdle to overcome in order to experience all that Skellige has to offer. Think of it as an investment in an unforgettable adventure filled with compelling characters, challenging quests, and breathtaking landscapes. And remember, if you’re lucky, you might just get your money back in the most unexpected of ways!
For those interested in the educational and cognitive benefits of gaming, don’t forget to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. They explore the intersection of games and learning, revealing the surprising ways interactive experiences can enhance our skills and knowledge.