A major new Waterford Maritime Gallery has been announced, marking a significant cultural project aimed at celebrating the city and county’s long-standing connection to the sea.
The initiative is a partnership between the Port of Waterford and Waterford Treasures, and will create a permanent exhibition dedicated to the region’s maritime history.
Project to highlight Waterford’s maritime legacy
The Waterford Maritime Gallery will explore over a thousand years of seafaring heritage, including shipbuilding, trade, fishing, migration and life along the River Suir.
The project follows the Port of Waterford marking 1,111 years in operation, reinforcing its position as Ireland’s oldest port.
Board member of Waterford Treasures, Des Whelan, said the gallery will finally give the city’s maritime story the recognition it deserves.
“This gallery will give Waterford’s maritime story the dedicated space and prominence it has long needed,” he said.
Partnership between Port and Waterford Treasures
The collaboration brings together historical expertise and industry heritage to deliver what is expected to be a landmark cultural attraction.
Port of Waterford CEO David Sinnott said the project reflects the identity of the region.
“The port has been at the heart of Waterford’s story for over a thousand years. This initiative ensures that our maritime legacy is preserved and shared with future generations.”
Public invited to contribute artefacts and stories
As part of the development of the Waterford Maritime Gallery, members of the public are being invited to contribute items and personal stories linked to the region’s maritime past.
These may include:
- Shipyard tools and equipment
- Photographs and documents
- Fishing and sailing memorabilia
- Family records connected to the port
A particular appeal has also been made for a historic diving helmet from the dredger SS Portláirge, believed to be in private ownership.
Series of open days planned across Waterford
A number of open days will take place throughout May, giving people the opportunity to share their items and stories.
Locations include:
- Medieval Museum, Waterford City – May 9 (11am–4pm)
- Fisherman’s Hall, Dunmore East – May 10 (2pm–6pm)
- Coast Guard Cultural Centre, Tramore – May 16 (12pm–4pm)
- Faithlegg National School (Cheekpoint/Passage) – May 17 (12pm–2pm)
New addition to Viking Triangle museums
The Waterford Maritime Gallery will be located within the Waterford Treasures Museums in the Viking Triangle.
It will showcase the legacy of historic shipyards such as Neptune Ironworks, White’s Shipyard, and Penrose Shipyard, as well as the generations of workers who contributed to Waterford’s development as a major port city.
Significant cultural milestone for the city
Once complete, the gallery is expected to become a key attraction, offering visitors a detailed and engaging look at Waterford’s maritime heritage.
The project represents a major step in preserving the stories of the river, the port, and the people whose lives have been shaped by them.
For further details on the open call and open days, see www.waterfordtreasures.com
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