Coffin & Convict Ships

Explore life on board a coffin ship and convict ship

From 1848 to 1950, over six million adults and children emigrated from Ireland – over 2.5 million of those departed from Cobh (then called Queenstown), making it the single most important port of emigration.

Learn about some of the emigrants who departed from Cobh, many in search of a new life in a land of opportunity, and many more who departed involuntarily as convicts to Australia or as forced labour to the colonies and the West Indies – known as the forgotten Irish.

A wonderful way to learn more about Irish emigration (including forced!) and to learn how this little town was once vital to cruise lines and mail delivery. I’ve heard a lot about the Titanic and Luisitania, but I learned new things at this museum.

Fascinating emigration history!!! History of Ireland which taught us so much! Gave us a great overall perspective and staff could not have been nicer!

I’m glad we stopped in while in port with a cruise. Very nice museum that covers the full history of Irish emigration. It keeps your attention because it’s on a more personal level. You meet real people and hear real stories.