Naomh Bairbre
Naomh Bairbre stands out as one of the largest Galway Hookers ever built at approximately 45 feet long, its imposing presence and traditional lines make it not only a flagship for Bádóirí an Chladaigh but also a marvel in the world of wooden boatbuilding.
Remarkably, this boat was constructed in Chicago by Connemara native and master carpenter Steve (Seán) Mulkerrins, known for his visionary craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to Galway heritage. Mulkerrins dreamt of resurrecting the great Atlantic workhorses on a new shore, and his tireless labor spanning years of careful design, wood sourcing, and traditional building methods now stands as a testament to the transatlantic ties between Irish diaspora and homeland.
For Mulkerrins and the wider community, Naomh Bairbre is much more than a boat—it is a bridge connecting generations, continents, and cultures. Local folklore and family stories were woven into its planking, with every timber cut and piece of rigging representing a nod to Galway’s maritime ancestry. Plans have even been shared for a historic voyage, sailing Naomh Bairbre from Chicago to Galway: the first time a Galway Hooker will traverse the Atlantic on her own keel with her builder aboard.
Naomh Bairbre
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After lengthy work in the Chicago shed, the hull is finished and major fitting-out is complete, but final steps remain. The mast, rigging, and sail hardware, as well as interior finishing, must still be completed to make the boat fully seaworthy and ready for ceremonial donation to Bádóirí an Chladaigh and the City of Galway. The vision is to use her for training a new generation of sailors, hosting heritage events, and providing a floating arts space.
Completing a boat of this scale and ambition a true flagship requires sustained help. Financial backing, skilled volunteers, and sponsorships are urgently needed to acquire remaining materials, finalise safety features, and prepare for the dream transatlantic voyage and handover. Local businesses, diaspora groups, and maritime enthusiasts are warmly invited to join the effort, ensuring Naomh Bairbre can take her rightful place leading the heritage fleet in the Claddagh Basin.
Naomh Bairbre is set to become an iconic centrepiece of Galway’s maritime revival—her story a source of connection, pride, and inspiration for generations on both sides of the ocean. With broad support, her completion will celebrate not only traditional Irish craftsmanship, but also the healing of old connections in new waters.
Support Naomh Bairbre’s final journey and help make history together.