Wicklow’s Seafaring Tradition

Wicklow has a long relationship with the sea that hugs it. With seafaring clubs and events taking place all-year round, Wicklow’s habitants experience a closeness with all things maritime - even if they've never been on a ship.

The first Wicklow Regatta Festival took place in September of 1878 and has always been hugely popular with locals and those further afield. Between the traditional yacht races, swimming, golly-fishing, and music events scattered across the weekend – Wicklow is transformed into a lively hub where its habitants, and visitors, can reflect on the town's rich maritime history.

Wicklow Sailing Club, home to the Round Ireland Yacht Race, is a centre for young and old to learn and engage in sailing activities. The group have been active for nearly 70 years and has often been a first-stop for many of the town's future mariners.

 Through everything from small daily activities to large annual events, Wicklow's closeness with the sea is ingrained in its culture as well as in its industry.