- The Port of Waterford and Waterford Treasures create a new Maritime Gallery.
- The gallery honours Waterford’s maritime heritage.
- An open call seeks public contributions of artefacts and stories.
- Four open days occur throughout May.
- Des Whelan and David Sinnott lead the partnership.
The Port of Waterford and Waterford Treasures have confirmed the creation of a new permanent Maritime Gallery that celebrates Waterford’s seafaring legacy. The project follows the Port of Waterford’s 1,111 years as Ireland’s oldest port in 2025. An open call invites the public to contribute objects, artefacts, photographs, documents and personal stories.
Open days take place on 9 May at the Medieval Museum, 10 May at the Fisherman’s Hall in Dunmore East, 16 May at the Coast Guard Cultural Centre in Tramore and 17 May at Faithlegg National School in Cheekpoint and Passage. A historic diving helmet from the SS Portláirge is requested for the gallery.
Des Whelan serves as board member of Waterford Treasures while David Sinnott serves as chief executive of the Port of Waterford.
Des Whelan shared “We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Port of Waterford as our partner on this transformative project. This gallery will finally give Waterford’s maritime story the dedicated space and prominence it deserves, and we are deeply grateful to the Port for their vision, their trust and their commitment to celebrating the heritage of Ireland’s oldest city and port.”
David Sinnott shared “The Port of Waterford is immensely proud to support this new Maritime Gallery and to partner with Waterford Treasures on a project that truly reflects who we are and where we come from. The port has been at the heart of Waterford’s story for over a thousand years, and this initiative ensures that our maritime legacy is celebrated, understood and passed on to future generations. We very much look forward to the unveiling of this gallery and to seeing the stories, artefacts and memories of Waterford’s maritime past brought to life.”
