High Latitude Sailors to Descend in Strength for Irish Polar Institute Gathering at National Yacht Club on Friday

25th January 2026

WM Nixon

In polar waters, and a long way from Galway Bay - Paddy Barry's much-travelled Galway Hooker St Patrick among exotic ice formations off Greenland.

The variety of reasons for bringing the Irish Polar Institute into being are as eclectic as the large group of high latitude sailors who, together with those who wish them well, will be descending on the National Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire this Friday evening (January 30th) for the inaugurating dinner of the Irish Polar Institute.

The brainchild of people like Arctic circumnavigators Jarlath Cunnane of Mayo and Paddy Barry of Connemara and Dun Laoghaire, with another Arctic Circler - Maire Breathnach of Dungarvan - as President, the wide-ranging IPI has been pleasantly surprised at the number and range of people from Ireland who have been involved in Arctic and Antarctic exploration and cruising.

The National YC is deservedly renowned for its flexibility in coping with varying numbers, and if needed places can still be made available for late bookers for Friday evening's unique gathering through Paddy Barry on 087 928 2393.

Published in Irish Polar Institute, National YC

Published in Irish Polar Institute

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Irish Polar Institute

About The Author

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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About the Irish Polar Institute

Explore the Irish Polar Institute’s mission to recognise and celebrate historic and modern Irish contributions to polar exploration, from Arctic and Antarctic voyagers to forgotten adventurers.

Founded in 2025 by high-latitude sailors including Paddy Barry and Jarlath Cunnane, the Institute promotes polar history, honours remarkable explorers with annual medals, and fosters awareness of Ireland’s role in global polar achievement.

Read Afloat.ie’s in-depth coverage of the Institute’s founding, key figures, upcoming inaugural dinner, and initiatives highlighting Irish explorers past and present