Resigned to having lost the Hebrides, Malcolm sought to keep Magnus off the mainland by presenting him a challenge. Only if he could navigate his ship around Kintyre could he keep it. Sadly only the ruins of the keep remain. Access is by steps leading up to the castle from Pier Road. Tarbert's herring industry dates back as far as 836AD when it was mentioned in the Annals of Ulster, but its future is now in doubt amidst controversy over EU fishing quotas.
Tourism is therefore an increasingly important source of income to the town.
During the last week in May, Tarbert becomes the focus for the Rover Series yacht races and the following week the town hosts the powerboat Grand Prix. Tarbert's main tourist attraction is An Tairbeart Heritage Centre on the Campbeltown Road. There is a nature trail for viewing the local wildlife and activities include wood turning and sheep shearing. Local produce is sold out of the Centre shop and its restaurant serves home-produced venison and local seafood. The Centre is open from Easter to October, 10am to 7pm daily.