Féile na mBád Regatta

Traditional Sailing Boats Festival displaying unique Irish boats. The Galway Hooker is the traditional boat of Galway built of strong and hardy oak to withstand the rough seas of the Atlantic.

The boats are easily recognised by their strong sharp bow and sides that curve outwards. They have one main sail and two foresails all on a single mast. It’s a gaff-rigged sailing boat meaning the sail is four-cornered, fore-and-aft rigged, controlled at its peak by a pole called the gaff.

Traditionally painted black with eye-catching red sails these beautiful boats are something to behold. They have become a much-loved symbol of Galway, something unique to the county.

More Information on the Galway Hookers Association Facebook Page.