A.K. ILEN's Centenary Celebration (1926 - 2026)

Celebrate ILEN's 100th with us!

A.K. ILEN, Ireland's historical, 56ft traditionally-built, ocean-going, wooden ship celebrates her centenary this year (1926-2026). As part of Heritage Week 2026, come and join Sailing Into Wellness on board, in Baltimore, for an insightful tour in English or Irish and experience her exquisite craftsmanship up close.

Listen to tales of her traditional build on the shores of the river Ilen, her links to Ireland's first amateur sailor - Conor O'Brien, who circumnavigated the globe with her slightly older sister 'Saoirse', hear tales of her commission, her journey to The Falklands Islands and life as an inter-island cargo ship.

We’ll share the story of her repatriation back to Ireland, the extensive fundraising achieved for her rebuild, the traditional boat-building techniques used to bring her back to all her glory, some of which were completed by descendants of her original builders and so much more.

There will be demonstrations of traditional maritime knots, some hands-on educational workshops, a chance to climb the ratlines, go explore the whole ship and be part of the ILEN experience, to celebrate her 100th!

Learn about the importance of maintaining this significant part of our Irish heritage for current and future generations to enjoy and appreciate.

As an integral part of the sailing charity, Sailing Into Wellness, ILEN now delivers ‘Educational and Therapeutic Voyage Programmes’ to groups from community-based organisations, across Ireland. We look forward to sharing the positive impact she brings to so many people within our communities.