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Dublin Bay Old Gaffers to Hear About Brian Boru Sail Training Voyages at Poolbeg Lecture

19th March 2024
Onboard Brian Boru - Pictured left/right, Matthew O’Doherty, Sam Lawry, Michael Doherty, Heather Mannix, Sacha Forde, Thomas Dodd, Ryan Sharp, and Luke Nelson with First Mate Hugh Byrne, on board the Brian Ború tall ship, in Cork as part of the Cork Sail Training Bursary scheme in 2022
Onboard Brian Boru - Pictured left/right, Matthew O’Doherty, Sam Lawry, Michael Doherty, Heather Mannix, Sacha Forde, Thomas Dodd, Ryan Sharp, and Luke Nelson with First Mate Hugh Byrne, on board the Brian Ború tall ship, in Cork as part of the Cork Sail Training Bursary scheme in 2022 Credit: Cathal Noonan

Sail training enthusiasts and maritime history buffs are in for a treat in Dublin this March. Hugh Byrne, a renowned sailor and expert, will deliver an illustrated lecture on "the Sail Training Vessel Brian Boru" at Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club, Ringsend on the River Liffey. The Dublin Bay Old Gaffers talk is scheduled for Thursday, March 21st at 8.00 pm and will be in aid of the RNLI.

'Brian Boru' is a 40-ton gaff-rigged sailing ketch that was built in Scotland in 1961. Originally built of Larch and oak as a fishing boat, the vessel has since been lovingly converted into a sail training vessel and can accommodate up to ten trainees and three crew members. The vessel has undertaken many cruises, some of a week's duration and has sailed around Ireland. Onboard instruction is given in maritime skills, knowledge, and safety, in addition to sailing instruction.

Mostly catering to young people, Brian Boru has filled a void left by the departure of the Asgard II. At the lecture, Hugh and friends will be telling us about the history of the vessel, many of her voyages, and the activities carried out aboard, sailing out of Cork and Dublin.

All are welcome to attend the lecture, and a contribution to the RNLI will be appreciated at the door. You are advised to come early to be sure of a seat. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of this beautiful vessel and hear about her exciting voyages.

Hugh Byrne, a renowned sailor and expert, will deliver an illustrated lecture on "the Sail Training Vessel Brian Boru" at Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club Ringsend. The talk is scheduled for Thursday, March 21st at 8.00 pm and will be in aid of the RNLI.Hugh Byrne, a renowned sailor and expert, will deliver an illustrated lecture on "the Sail Training Vessel Brian Boru" at Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club Ringsend. The talk is scheduled for Thursday, March 21st at 8.00 pm and will be in aid of the RNLI.

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Dublin Bay Old Gaffers

The Dublin Bay Old Gaffers Association aims to promotes interest in traditional gaff rig and seamanship, to offer help, advice and comradeship to members and to organise races and rallies for members in the Dublin Bay Area. 

The Dublin Bay Old Gaffers normally organise a regatta, two rallies and four races during the summer season and a varied, interesting and well-supported series of talks during the winter (proceeds raised are donated to the RNLI). 

Many Dublin Bay members also travel to regattas and rallies organised by other Irish Sea OGA areas. 

While the Dublin Bay Old Gaffers activities are focused on  Dublin Bay, they also have a cluster of members in the Cork area and have members from all over Ireland and some in Britain too.

The Association is working up lans to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2023.  In 2013 a fleet of boats set off around the UK and Ireland to celebrate OGA50.