"It was fascinating to see the work of the people who had spent their life learning their craft and trade. The work was REAL..." Eddie Cleary, Co. Tipperary
The workshop was fantastic, the crew in the boatyard were great, we all gelled together as a team and despite the busy social life, we managed to complete our work. Mike Ruane, Co. Wexford
For 3 days I was lost in time, watching and helping Fachtna & Liam turn out intricate frames from the rough-sawn slabs of oak Captain J.G. Burns, MNI, Serving Master Marine
I was convinced that not only did the shipwrights appreciate our assistance – however inexpert – they enjoyed too the colour, the banter & energy we brought with us. Críostóir Mac Cárthaigh UCD National Folklore Collection
Connect with a piece of the Ilen - sponsorship of a plank is a meaningful way for you to support our project.
Donations are very much appreciated and allow us to continue to provide hands-on education.
Limited edition poster print of the Ketch Ilen is now available.
What's Happening
- January Workshop
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The recent January workshop saw frames 19 and 20 fitted. Six eager participants set to the task with great enthusiasm under the direction of the shipwrights.
- A shared love of wooden boats and the sea
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For 3 days I was lost in time, watching and helping the traditional shipwrights turn out intricate frames from rough-sawn slabs of oak. I saw at first-hand these revered and amazing skills and was involved in the re-build of AK ILEN.
For myself and many of the other workshop participants this was one of the most rewarding and heart-warming activities in which we have ever participated.
Captain J.G. Burns, MNI, Chief Officer & Master of ASGARD 2 - Build a Boat
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Áilín Quinlan talks to a boating enthusiast who helped rebuild an old Irish wooden sailing ship and hears about the three-day workshops open to anyone who fancies doing the same under the watchful eye of qualified shipwrights.
SilverCircle.ie
If you are looking for a great introduction to traditional wooden boat construction, join us on one of our three day workshops and work with some of Ireland's few remaining traditional shipwrights, refitting Ireland's sole surviving sea-going sailing ship.
Workshops are held in a traditional wooden boatbuilding yard in Oldcourt, Skibbereen, West Cork. Our workshops take place in Hegarty's Boatyard where professional wooden boat builders Liam Hegarty, John Hegarty and Fachtna O'Sulivan, offer participants a stimulating introduction to traditional West Cork wooden boat building.
Take this unique opportunity to carry forward this mysterious and ancient craft.
Typical workshop programme
- Traditional wooden boat terminology (nomenclature)
- What are the basic elements that make up a wooden boat
- What woods are used in boat construction, oak, larch etc.
- How to use a chain mould
- Making moulds
- Shaping new oak frames and bevel cutting
- History of the West Cork sailing vessel Ilen
To get confirmation of the next workshop dates or to book your place click here.
Within the walls and under the roof of an old unassuming corn store, well set into the landscape on the River Ilen,
a magnificent world roaming giant is once again gathering strength ...
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