Manuela
Manuela is the third boat to join the revived Bádóirí an Chladaigh fleet, representing both a continuation of Galway’s iconic Hooker tradition and a deeply meaningful community dedication. Originally named Fiona, the boat was carefully restored and relaunched in 2015, fully equipped for modern sailing while honoring authentic craftsmanship.
The boat was renamed Manuela in memory of Manuela Riedo, a Swiss schoolgirl tragically murdered in Galway in 2007. This renaming immortalizes her legacy within Galway’s maritime heritage, connecting the vibrant life of the city with the spirit of remembrance and community resilience.
By sustaining Manuela’s sailing life and community role, Bádóirí an Chladaigh ensures their heritage is both cherished and lived, bringing history’s lessons onto Galway Bay’s waters in the present day.
Manuela
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Manuela •
Restoring Manuela involved meticulous care to preserve original materials and design features while incorporating necessary repairs to ensure seaworthiness. The restoration was supported by a wide network of volunteers, local craftspeople, and community members, embodying the spirit of shared dedication common within Bádóirí an Chladaigh’s projects.
Sailmaking, woodwork, rigging, and painting were all handled using traditional methods combined with modern practical adaptations. This ensured that Manuela would be fit not just for display but as a fully operational training and sailing vessel.
Today, Manuela is an active sailing boat used primarily for training new sailors and community sailing adventures, reflecting the Galway Hookers’ historic role as “workhorses of the sea.” She operates as a practical classroom, teaching heritage, seamanship, and teamwork to a new generation.
Manuela symbolizes how the club’s work goes beyond restoration to intertwine deeply personal and communal narratives. It honors a young life lost while fostering growth, learning, and inclusion. The boat stands as a moving tribute—a testament to how Galway’s maritime tradition continues to inspire healing and connection.