The heart of Galway's maritime heritage will come to life at the end of the month in the three-day Galway Docklands Festival, which will be held from September 29 to October 1.

It will be “an unforgettable experience celebrating Galway's rich marine industry,” say the organisers, Galway Hooker Sailing Club, in association with Galway Bay Boat Tours and Galway Bay Seafoods.

It starts with a “dive into the world of seafood”, which will take place around Galway Bay Seafoods, including seafood tasting and talks about Ireland's fishing industry. Galway Lifeboat will host visits, and there will be an opportunity to meet boat builders working on restoring Galway’s maritime heritage. This is at the Galway Hooker Sailing Club's restoration project, which will run guided walking tours, how-to-learn learn knots courses, and stands from Galway Aquarium, Corrib Beo, Water Safety Ireland and much more.

Explore the magic of family boat tours and step onboard an authentic Galway Hooker to experience a piece of maritime history up close at the Galway Docklands Festival 

“It's a chance to connect with the maritime heritage of Galway like never before,” says Collette Furey of the Galway Hooker Sailing Club Organising Committee.

Amongst the attractions:

• Saturday, September 30: Claddagh Hall Adventures - centred around Claddagh Hall. The morning begins with a burst of activity within the hall, followed by an enjoyable afternoon of sailing and boat tours. The evening will be topped off with a public quiz.
• Sunday, October 1: Family Fun Day in Claddagh Hall - A family-oriented day. Bring the kids along for entertainment, face painting, and delightful treats from the ice cream van. Explore the magic of family boat tours and step onboard an authentic Galway Hooker to experience a piece of maritime history up close.

“As we celebrate Galway's marine industry, we're also giving back to the community,” says Colette Furey. “All funds raised during the festival will be dedicated to the Galway branch of the RNLI and Ability West. By participating in the Galway Docklands Festival, attendees will not only enjoy a fantastic maritime experience but also contribute to these essential organisations that make a real difference in the lives of others.”

Galway Hooker Sailing Club will be running its final pop-up shop in Galway city this weekend, 16 and 17 December — just in time for the run-up to Christmas.

Once again the shop is being hosted on the premises of Galway Bay Seafoods at the Docks and is organised run completely by volunteers, selling local crafts.

Some of the items in stock include a great mix of handmade crafts, club merchandise, Galway-themed cards and nautical-themed gift ideas.

Check out their wares this Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4.30pm and support not only the sailing club but also local businesses.