Kinsale Harbour hosted its annual Maritime Parade on Sunday, March 16, with Kinsale Yacht Club playing a leading role in the on the water activities in the Co Cork harbour.
The 11th event began at 7:30 pm, attracting locals and visitors alike. A fleet of illuminated boats sailed into Kinsale Harbour gracefully under the night sky, with the restored traditional ketch Ilen catching the eye of the hundreds of quayside spectators.
A highlight of the Kinsale Maritime Parade was a fireworks display around 8:00 pm Photo: Bob Bateman
The spectacle was accompanied by music and free family activities.
The Maritime Parade has become a cherished tradition in Kinsale, marking the start of St. Patrick's Day celebrations.
Thousands gathered at the Harbour for the Kinsale Maritime Parade 2025 Photo: Bob Bateman
Kinsale Yacht Club played an important role in the event, with members' boats involved in the on-the-water parade. The RNLI Kinsale lifeboat featured along with inshore and offshore fishing vessels, as well as yachts led by Kinsale Yacht Club Commodore Tony Scannell on board his yacht, "Hansemer." This resulted in a wonderful display as the boats emerged and passed by James' Fort.
Kinsale Yacht Club Commodore Tony Scannell (second from left) with Kinsale's St. Patrick's Maritime Festival committee members and Grand Marshall John Stanley ahead of last night's maritime parade by boats and fireworks display Photo: Bob Bateman
Commodore Scannell welcomed Festival organisers back to the clubhouse after the parade, where awards were presented to the best-dressed boats and John Stanley, Chairman of the Belgooly Show, served as the Grand Marshal. His longstanding community involvement made him a fitting choice for the role.
The evening concluded with a fireworks display around 8:00 pm.
The two-day celebration highlighted Kinsale's community spirit and cultural heritage. Both events are expected to be well-attended, reinforcing the town's reputation for hosting memorable St. Patrick's Day festivities.
Kinsale's Maritime Parade 2025 Photo Gallery by Bob Bateman
On March 17, festivities continue with a street parade starting at 3:00 pm from the New Road car park.
The procession follows a route along The Glen, Pearse Street, Barry’s Place, and the Pier Road, concluding near the Pier Head. This year's theme, 'Kindness and Inclusivity,' will be reflected in the vibrant displays.
