Foyle Port
celebrates 170 years of maritime history
27.06.24
THIS year Foyle Port
celebrates a historic milestone as it marks 170 years at
the heart of trade and industry on the River Foyle – and
what better time to celebrate than at the Foyle Maritime
Festival.
Foyle Port staff will come together to mark the occasion
in style with maritime themed festivities on the Foyle,
a special quayside reception and family fun day.
The Maritime Festival provides an opportunity to look
back and reflect on the remarkable history of the Foyle,
as a key Irish port for transatlantic trade, a centre
for emigration, and a strategic military base. Foyle
Port has been integral to the city’s growth and
development. |
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German U-boat surrender at
Lisahally on 25th May 1945 |
When the Port was first
formally established in 1854, the Industrial Revolution
was well underway and it accelerated in the aftermath of
the American Civil War. Transatlantic shipping was a
lynchpin in opening up trade routes and transportation
to the United States and further afield and Foyle Port
provided the ideal access point.
Today, Foyle Port operates as a vital bulk port,
renewable energy platform and supporter of cruise
tourism, making essential contributions to the economy
of the North West of Ireland. |
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Foyle Port Lisahally
Terminal |
Harbour Master and
Operations Director, Bill McCann said: “The Foyle
Maritime Festival is a highlight of the year for us as
it underscores our ongoing commitment to contribute to
the positive impact of the Port in the community. This
event would not be possible without the exceptional
expertise of our marine team, safe waterways and the
marine infrastructure we have in place. Our marine team
are committed to the safe and efficient operation of all
marine activity ensuring a secure environment for all.
“After 170 years as the maritime hub of the North West,
Foyle Port continues to grow, thrive and evolve and what
better way to celebrate these achievements and this
landmark year, than by joining the party at the
council’s giant maritime festival weekend on the
quayside and on the water. We look forward to seeing
generations of Foyle Port families joining in the
celebrations, and to seeing tens of thousands of
visitors enjoying the packed programme of activities,
sharing the magic of the River Foyle and all that it
showcases of this great city.”
Tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to the
Foyle Maritime Festival over four days from Thursday
June 27 until Sunday June 30, with a packed programme of
water and land based activities. The quayside will
become a bustling maritime village featuring vintage
fairground rides, live music, the culinary delights of
the LegenDerry Food Village, the Maritime and Merchant
Markets, Big Wheel, water taster sessions and so much
more.
Find out more at
www.foylemaritimefestival.com . |
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