Meitheal Mara is a maritime cultural organisation and community boat yard on the River Lee in Cork city centre. The organisation’s primary object is to promote and foster maritime culture and activities and social inclusion. We achieve this combined object through community boating projects, employment and partnerships with a particular emphasis on currachs and other traditional boats.
Our activities take place in the workshop; on the river and harbour; via the maritime events office; and through research and publications. We provide training in woodwork, wood turning, boat handling and boat building for young people from 14 years upwards and adults of all ages. The Bádóireacht team supports young people throughout the city to experience the freedom of getting afloat on the river in currachs and aboard 40 foot Bantry longboat, Fionnbarra. The events team coordinates the annual Cork Harbour Festival, Ocean to City – An Ras Mór, and Inter-firm Dragon Boat Challenges. Our work is supported by a wonderful community of volunteers.
Click on the links below to learn more about our different programmes.