Shannon Estuary's Cutter Sally O'Keeffe Successfully Spans The Ages

11th October 2022

Eternal youth - the Shannon Estuary's community-bult cutter Sally O'Keeffe (racing here in the RWIYC October Series 2022 at Kilrush) exudes a remarkable spirit of tradition allied to youthful enthusiasm Credit: Steve Morris

The 25ft gaff cutter Sally O'Keeffe, built by a community group at Querrin on the Loop Head Peninsula under the guidance of master shipwright Steve Morris of Kilrush, to a design by Myles Stapleton of Malahide as a miniature synthesis of traditional Shannon Estuary Hookers, is ten years old this year.

Yet there ls something about the spirit of the way in which she was created, to be beneficially used by all ages, which gives her an eternal youthfulness with traditional appeal. If not unique, this impression is certainly especially strong with the Sally.

A good picture saves a thousand words, and this image - captured by Steve Morris in the current RWIYC October Series at Kilrush - says everything.

Published in Shannon Estuary, Historic Boats

Published in Shannon Estuary

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WM Nixon

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William M Nixon has been writing about sailing in Ireland for many years in print and online, and his work has appeared internationally in magazines and books. His own experience ranges from club sailing to international offshore events, and he has cruised extensively under sail, often in his own boats which have ranged in size from an 11ft dinghy to a 35ft cruiser-racer. He has also been involved in the administration of several sailing organisations.

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Shannon Foynes Port Information

Shannon Foynes Port (SFPC) are investing in an unprecedented expansion at its general cargo terminal, Foynes, adding over two-thirds the size of its existing area. In the latest phase of a €64 million investment programme, SFPC is investing over €20 million in enabling works alone to convert 83 acres on the east side of the existing port into a landbank for marine-related industry, port-centric logistics and associated infrastructure. The project, which will be developed on a phased basis over the next five years, will require the biggest infrastructure works programme ever undertaken at the port, with the entire 83 acre landbank having to be raised by 4.4 metres. The programme will also require the provision of new internal roads and multiple bridge access as well as roundabout access.