Féile na mBád Cill Chiaráin 2027

Traditional boat festival in Kilkeeran ⛵

A spectacular regatta in Cill Chiaráin (anglicized as Kilkieran), Co. Galway in early July 2027 celebrating Ireland’s rich maritime heritage. The event will showcase a magnificent fleet of traditional Irish boats, featuring agile currachs and the iconic Galway Hookers. Spectators can expect to see all four classes of the Hooker—the Bád Mór, Leathbhád, Gleoiteog, and Púcán—which have historically served the communities of Galway Bay, the rugged Connemara coastline, and North Clare.

Please note that dates and sailing times are subject to change depending on weather and tide conditions.

What to expect at the Kilkeeran regatta

About the Galway Hooker Traditional Boats

The Galway Hooker is an iconic traditional sailing vessel indigenous to Ireland’s west coast, specifically designed to withstand the turbulent waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Instantly recognizable by their striking rust-red sails and pitch-black, pitch-coated wooden hulls, these gaff-rigged boats were the historical workhorses of the region. Traditionally crafted from sturdy oak, they were primarily used for fishing, trading, and transporting essential supplies like turf and seaweed to and from the offshore islands.

Navigating a Galway Hooker is a true testament to maritime heritage, demanding profound skill, deep local knowledge, and seamless teamwork. Manned typically by a dedicated crew of three to five sailors, these vessels rely entirely on age-old sailing techniques passed down through generations of coastal families. Seeing these historic boats race under full sail off the coast of Kilkeeran offers a breathtaking and authentic glimpse into Ireland’s nautical past.