In April 2026, an exciting and long-overdue announcement was made – that a permanent Maritime Gallery would be created in Waterford City. A series of open days will be hosted around the county in May, and the plan is for the gallery to open early in 2027. Tides & Tales welcome the announcement, and we will be keen to assist in any way that we can. What follows is the announcement and open day dates, times and venues.

The Port of Waterford and Waterford Treasures invite you to be part of an exciting new chapter in the city’s story — the creation of a permanent Maritime Gallery celebrating Waterford’s enduring relationship with the sea.

Set to explore centuries of shipbuilding, trade, fishing, migration, and riverside life, this new gallery will bring together artefacts, photographs, documents, and personal stories to illuminate the lives shaped by the port and its waters.

Throughout May, a series of open days will offer a rare opportunity to get involved. Visitors are warmly encouraged to bring along maritime objects, photographs, or memorabilia and to share personal or family stories that can help shape this new cultural space — ensuring it reflects the true lived experience of Waterford’s coastal and river communities.

Starting this weekend, join us across a range of locations as we gather stories and treasures from the community:

Open Day Dates:
9th May – Medieval Museum (City Open Day), 11 am – 4 pm
10th May – Fisherman’s Hall, Dunmore East, 2 pm – 6 pm
16th May – Coast Guard Cultural Centre, Tramore, 12 pm – 4 pm
17th May – Faithlegg National School, Cheekpoint/Passage, 12 pm – 2 pm
23rd May – Copper Coast Geopark Visitor Centre, Bunmahon, 12 pm – 3 pm

Admission to the Open Days is Free.

A special appeal is also underway for the return or loan of a historic diving helmet from the Waterford dredger SS Portláirge, believed to be in private hands. This unique piece would form a striking centrepiece within the gallery.

If you have any information or queries, please email: cpurcell@waterfordcouncil.ie