The World Ship Society’s Cobh branch has elected long-standing member Frank Walley as its new president and announced a programme of maritime talks covering the Battle of Jutland, Cork Harbour forts and shipwrecks off the south coast.
Walley takes over the presidency of the branch, which was established in 2005.
The Cobh branch marked its tenth anniversary in 2015, when Afloat reported on its programme of maritime archive films and overseas port visits. Its continuing interest in shipping heritage is also reflected in its recent visit to Fred Olsen's Borealis, a vessel which made headlines in 2022 when it became the first cruise ship to visit Cobh following the pandemic.
“Under his leadership, the new committee has set about their role with enthusiasm and vigour,” the branch says.
Since May, members have enjoyed a tour of the Naval Base on Haulbowline Island and a visit to the new maritime museum in Passage West.
In early September, branch members were invited aboard Fred Olsen’s cruise ship Borealis during a call to Cobh, where they were given a comprehensive tour of the vessel.
The branch also plans to join a mini-cruise from New Ross to Bilbao with Brittany Ferries towards the end of the season.
Ship Visit – Members of the World Ship Society's Cobh branch aboard Fred Olsen's cruise ship Borealis during its September visit to Cork Harbour.
Maritime Talks Programme
The new season of monthly lectures began in October, with visiting experts and guest speakers covering topics including shipwrecks between Courtmacsherry and Kinsale, the forts of Cork Harbour and the centenary expedition with the Crean family to South Georgia.
Maritime Calendar – The World Ship Society's Cobh branch 2026–27 programme includes lectures on the Battle of Jutland, Cork Harbour forts, historic shipwrecks and Tom Crean's Antarctic legacy. Photo: World Ship Society Cobh Branch
New Members Welcome
The branch welcomes new members interested in maritime history, shipping and its programme of talks and activities.
The annual membership subscription is €55.
Meetings take place at the Commodore Hotel in Cobh, Co Cork, on the third Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm.
Anyone interested in joining can contact Frank Walley at [email protected].
