There is a long history of sailing and building traditional sailing boats along the Connemara coast and around
Galway bay. Collectively known as hookers there are generally four types of Galway Hooker, all used for different purposes. The biggest is approximately 44 feet long and the smallest is approximately 24 feet long. The four boats are named: Bád Mór, Leathbhád, Gleoiteog and Púcán.
They were built both for fishing and trade, the mainstay of which was the transport of turf from the bogs of Connemara and Mayo to Galway City and the north Clare coast. The return journey would often carry limestone to be used as fertilizer and mortar.
Modern day hookers are now a popular pass-time and have dedicated followers and regular crews keen to win races that are held at regattas and festivals along the coast throughout the summer.
Cruinniú na mBád Festival in Kinvara is a very popular festival and has loads of 
onshore activities barbeques and music over the weekend as well as the hooker racing. Boats arrive over the previous few days and a big day’s racing takes place on the Sunday. Some of these boats bring a load of turf which is sold on Kinvara pier.
I had the great fortune to be invited to sail on the Leathbhád “Norah”. We had some great sailing with a lively trip across from Galway, and “Norah” winning the cup in the main race.
I am very grateful to Seán and his crew for putting up with us.
Every year Kinvara is the home to another festival, Fleadh na gCuach, the cuckoo festival, an Irish music festival at the beginning of May about which time the cuckoo is first heard, so if you are in the area head down to have a bit of fun.
