From top: Built in Baltimore in West Cork in 1926, the ‘Ilen’ served for over 70 years, transporting cargo between the Falkland Islands before being brought back to Ireland 20 years ago and restored; Jeremy Irons
All afloat this afternoon visiting @ilenproject @StKats Enjoying the ship’s berth in London with #LimerickMayor #IrishEmbassy. pic.twitter.com/6S4te0B3SQ
— Alison Jane Gowman (@GowmanAJ) May 4, 2022
Yesterday and last night.
London, England, UK.
Niall Moonan writes:
Ireland’s last timber-built cargo ship became the mast-er of The Thames at a special event in London to celebrate Anglo-Irish trade and cultural links. Actors Jeremy Irons and his wife Sinead Cusack were among the guests joining the crew of the Ilen.
The 96-year-old cargo ketch left Steamboat Quay in Limerick on April 23 for the 750-nautical mile voyage, sailing up the River Thames and berthing at St Katharine Docks in the shadow of Tower Bridge.
The Ilen will remain berthed in London’s docklands until May 14, with the hope that further commercial and cultural collaborations can be arranged.
Pics: Clare Frew
