Inishowen Maritime Museum and Planetarium
The Inishowen Maritime Museum in Greencastle Co Donegal was opened to the public in 1994 with the assistance of the Inishowen Community Development Limited, the EU Leader Programme and the International Fund for Ireland.
T: +353 (0)74 9381363
W: www.inishowenmaritime.com
The Museum
The Museum is located in the old coastguard station above Greencastle harbour and has a commanding view over one of the premier fishing fleets in Ireland, with superb views over Lough Foyle towards County Derry. It is situated close to the terminal of the Greencastle – Magilligan ferry.
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Among the Museum’s exhibits are a 19th century rocket cart used to aid survivors of wrecked ships; a traditional Fanad Curragh built with hazel rods, lathes and canvas; a wild fowling punt with a swivel gun and a Lough Foyle punt. The Museum also has a room devoted to the ships of the ill fated Spanish Armada which sunk off the Irish coast in 1588 and a room devoted to the part which Greencastle played in the history of emigration from Ireland in the 19th century.
In 2009 the Museum acquired a unique and unrivalled archive of material about Ireland’s long-standing fishing industry.’The Irish Skipper Archives’ is a vast collection of articles, information and important developments in the Irish fishing industry as published in ‘The Irish Skipper’ journal over the last four decades. The Museum has a coffee, craft and souvenir shop.
Location Map
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The Planetarium
The Inishowen Maritime Museum also includes a state-of-the-art Planetarium. This wonderful facility gives the visitor the ability to see how mariners used to navigate with the stars, and also provide dazzling astronomy and light shows.
The planetarium also includes Ireland’s only permanently-installed concert laser. Laser Light shows are performed live every weekend during the summer season, accompanied by recorded traditional and modern Irish music. The concert laser system is played by the laser artist, or “laserist”, who creates variations of line and light, uniquely individualising every performance. The result is a splash of vibrant colours and laser illusions to dazzle your imagination and set your toe tapping.
Winter Opening Hours (October until Easter):
Mon-Fri: 9.30am – 5.30pm
(Last admissions at 5.00pm)