Grace O'Malley, a 164-ft tall ship which drew considerable attention in Derry and Belfast as Afloat reported, and which is destined to serve the island of Ireland as a training vessel for young people as part of the Atlantic Youth Trust, is today to visit Warrenpoint in Co. Down.
Warrenpoint Port will be hosting the tallship Grace O Malley in support of the Warrenpoint Loughside Festival with the schooner remaining in the port until Tuesday 16th August (see dates and times below for free public boarding access).
Last month the schooner was purchased in Sweden by the Atlantic Youth Trust Charity (currently known as the Lady Ellen, if vessel tracking) as the tallship this morning is off the Down coast.
According to Warrenpoint Port, Grace O'Malley is to sail up Carlingford Lough and is expected to berth at the Town Dock Marina at approximately 12.30pm (subject to change).
The port is delighted to bring the tallship to the local community and to introduce young people across the island of Ireland to a possible maritime career.
In addition the maiden call of the tallship to Warrenpoint is to build on the excitement and interest created from the recent cruise ship visits so far this season as Afloat reported.
Over the course of the weekend the tallship will be open, free of charge (docked) to walk around and experience life on board. You can access the ship from the Town Dock Marina closest to the Vecchia Roma restaurant just off the Square in Warrenpoint.
Public Opening Hours (subject to change):
Friday 12th August 1.30pm- 3.30pm
Saturday 13th August 2.30pm-4.30pm
Sunday 14th August 11am-1pm
Monday 15th August 12 noon-3pm
Tuesday 16th August 12 noon-2pm
(Please note the port advises that the tallship will also be hosting a number of private events)
Access to the ship is restricted to tidal hours (to be confirmed each day) and numbers are limited at any one time. A queuing system will be in place and barriers will close 15 minutes before the closing time.
As a charity @Atlantic Youth Trust operates a gratuities box for anyone who wishes to donate to their efforts.
Please check Warrenpoint Port social media channels for updates before travelling to visit the ship as part of the Lough Side Festival and enjoy a visit to the Grace O Malley.
