Maritime & Naval

Immerse yourself in our Maritime, Naval and Military History

Cobh is one of the world’s finest natural harbours. The Queenstown Story relays stories about the maritime, naval and military history of the area, the fortification of the various forts in the harbour such as Hawlbowline, Spike Island (the Alcatraz of Ireland) and Fort Camden, and takes you on an emigration journey from the 1600’s right through to the 1950’s.

Hawlbowline is now home to the Irish Naval Service and both Spike Island and Fort Camden are two amazing visitor attractions. Cove, as it was known then , is proud to have formed the oldest Yacht Club in the world in 1720, now situated in Crosshaven in Cork harbour , called the RCYC. (Royal Cork Yacht Club).

A young woman and a boy are looking at a model ship displayed in a glass case at a museum, with the woman pointing something out to the boy.
A large sailing ship battles through turbulent, frothy ocean waves under a stormy sky, with its sails fully unfurled and billowing in the wind.
trip
Wonderful surprise. Learned so much
Wonderful surprise. Learned so much
Cheryl M
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.
Great place to visit
Great place to visit
Debbie D
Fascinating emigration history!!! History of Ireland which taught us so much! Gave us a great overall perspective and staff could not have been nicer!
Wonderful surprise. Learned so much
Wonderful surprise. Learned so much
Cheryl M
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.
Beautiful museum
Beautiful museum
Carol S
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.
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