Menu

Ireland's sailing, boating & maritime magazine

Displaying items by tag: popular

#COASTAL NOTES - Northern Ireland's only aquarium could be privatised, according to the News Letter.

Ards Borough Council is reportedly considering its options for the future of Exploris, the aquarium and seal sanctuary in Portaferry that celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

Plans were made four years ago to transfer ownership to English aquarium group Blue Reef Leisure, but the deal fell through when that firm was aquired by Spain's Aspro.

Now the council has announced it is calling for proposals for private investment in the Exploris facility - which costs around £500,000 (€600,000) a year to run - following "renewed interest from the public sector".

The move aims to "establish a clear direction for the future of Exploris", which houses one of Northern Ireland's top 10 visitor attractions in its popular seal sanctuary.

The News Letter has more on the story HERE.

Published in Coastal Notes

Crosshaven Boat Yard is the Irish distributor for Dufour Yachts of France. Crosshaven Boatyard offers a complete range of top quality Cruising and Racing yachts from 32 feet to 52 feet.

Crosshaven Boat Yard was established over 60 years ago and has been a family-based operation since its early days.

The Yard originally specialised in building commercial fishing boats and small pleasure craft, both sail and power and is famous for its involvement in the construction of a number of significant yachts such as Gypsy Moth V, Saint Brendan, Longbow II and a series of Moondusters were completed up to the early ’80s.

Crosshaven Boat Yard installed the first commercial marina, with a Marine Travel hoist, in Ireland in 1979. This era saw a major change of emphasis in the business and since then we have concentrated on all aspects of the repair, care and maintenance.

The Cork Harbour company also offer, the White Shark Range of Sports Boats cater for angling and water skiing interests.

Crosshaven Boatyard are also agents for the popular Seaward Range of Motor Cruisers from 19′ to 42′.

The firm's Brokerage service consistently achieves top results for our large client base and we can offer the best professional advice whether you are a buyer or a boat owner.

The yard is situated just a stone's throw from the Royal Cork Yacht Club,  the oldest yacht club in the world founded in 1720.