 Such are the hazards of the surrounding reefs that the lighthouse is not normally approached by shipping . However , completion of the construction work did not result in an end to the difficulties for those involved in its operations . The easiest landing is at <unk> 's Gully , which intersects the rock near the tower . An unaided landing has been described as " like climbing up the side of a bottle " . A system of ropes attached to a derrick was installed to assist these dangerous operations . Statistics compiled for the two decades from 1881 – 1890 showed Skerryvore as having been the stormiest part of Scotland . There were a total of 542 storms lasting 14 @,@ 211 hours during that period . One keeper lost his hearing for several weeks , after a lightning strike had thrown him through the entrance door . 
