Book Now

Galway Hooker Workshop
& Boat Tour

A visit to Galway would not be complete without spending some time with a Galway Hooker in our workshop – the traditional wooden fishing boats that are synonymous with Galway since the 1800’s.

The Oliver family sail these boats today around Claddagh as their ancestors did, including their great grand uncle, King of the Claddagh Martin Oliver.

With the Galway Hooker Workshop you get to learn about the history of these remarkable wooden boats and gather an understanding of the restoration process by taking part in it.

What You Can Expect

  • Learn the heritage of these boats, that were used to transport cargo around Galway Bay, to Connemara and the Aran Islands.
  • Get an insight into the magical experience of sailing these boats on Galway Bay. 
  • See a Galway hooker under restoration and learn how you can get involved and be part of the revival story.
  • Watch traditional boat building methods including the expertise required for the selection of native oak and larch and wood shaping.

This tour includes a 1 hour motorboat trip with Ciaran around Claddagh as he talks about life in the old fishing village where he and his ancestors grew up.

Book Now

Workshop Details

Cost:€30 per person
Duration:1.5 hours (approx)
Meet Point:Click here to find the pick up point on Google maps
Important:Require a minimum of 4 people to run the tour
Book Now

Galway hooker workshop gallery