The Irish sailing community is paying tribute to Paddy O’Neill who passes away in 2026 at the age of 87. The former president of Irish Sailing plays a central role in the development of the sport over many decades and contributes significantly to sailing infrastructure and participation across the country.
Patrick (Paddy) O’Neill, former president of the Irish Sailing Association and a towering figure in Irish maritime heritage, died peacefully on 9 March 2026 at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin after a short illness.
Born in 1939, he passed away at the age of 86 and is survived by his wife Marie, sons Conor and Brian, daughter in law Nicola, and grandchildren Nicholas, Charlie, Francesca and Juliane.
Tributes continue to flow from the sailing community as colleagues and friends remember his decades of dedicated service to the sport.
O’Neill served as president of the Irish Sailing Association in the late 1980s and became the first member of the National Yacht Club to hold the position. Throughout his long career he played a central role in the development and promotion of sailing in Ireland, from club level racing in Dublin Bay to supporting international offshore events and the growth of the sport nationwide.
He remained active in sailing circles well into later life, particularly through his beloved Mermaid class yacht, and was known for his sociable nature, love of snooker and his embodiment of community spirit within yacht clubs. His contributions helped shape modern Irish sailing infrastructure and encouraged wider participation in maritime activities that support tourism and hospitality along the coast.
The Irish sailing community continues to honour his legacy with ongoing tributes that highlight his pioneering leadership and lifelong commitment to the sea. Funeral arrangements have been announced for Malahide, where he lived, and many sailors plan to pay their respects at events linked to his favourite clubs in the coming weeks.
