Cork Harbour Festival 2016

Taking place in the second largest natural harbour in the world, the Cork Harbour Festival is a celebration of Ireland’s unique maritime culture and heritage. It attracts thousands of spectators and participants over the June Bank Holiday Weekend and following week, connecting our city and coastal communities; our landlubbers and seafarers. Combining the Ocean to City Race and Cork Harbour Open Day, the festival features dozens of exciting events – both on and off the water.

The flagship event of the festival, Ocean to City – An Rás Mór, is Ireland’s premier rowing spectacle. It draws hundreds of participants from all over the world competing in everything from traditional wooden boats, currachs, gigs and longboats to Chinese dragon boats, kayaks and canoes. It is the largest event in Cork Harbour and a firm fixture on its civic and cultural calendar. More than just a race, Ocean to City represents a personal challenge, a shared effort and a coming together of people who love these waters and love their boats.

The festival also features Cork Harbour Open Day; a brilliant harbour event with free harbour tours, sailing tasters, open days at Spike Island and Fort Camden, and lots more.

The Cork Harbour Festival offers something for everyone. Watch our spectacular fleet of boats from the many vantage points along the race; then come aboard our harbour cruise; enjoy our seafood market; visit Spike Island or Camden Fort Meagher; try some sailing or come for a paddle and see the city like you’ve never seen it before! Many free family events available throughout the week.