Drogheda Port Company

25/08/2026

🎨🖌⚓⛵🌊Art Commission 2026 OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS

07/08/2026

Boyne Swim 2026 - Drogheda at its best

Another hugely successful Boyne Swim took place last Saturday, 1st August, welcoming over 200 swimmers and their families to the iconic waters of the River Boyne for one of Ireland's most popular open water swimming events.

Drogheda Port Company are delighted to continue to support and organise this event in conjunction with the Drogheda Tri Club. Mention also to Lennon Solar one of the key sponsors.

With ideal conditions and a fantastic atmosphere throughout the day, swimmers from all over the country came together to take on the challenge. From seasoned open water competitors to those experiencing the event for the very first time, the determination, sportsmanship, and sense of community on display made the day a tremendous success.

Now running 12 years, the Boyne Swim continues to grow in popularity and seeing over 200 swimmers take part this year is a testament to the strength of the open water swimming community and the dedication of everyone involved in organising the event.

Huge congratulations to Dylan Brady of Drogheda Swimming Club, who claimed his second consecutive Boyne Swim title in a superb new personal best time of 29 minutes 50 seconds.🏊‍♀️🏆🥇🥈🥉

30/07/2026

27/07/2026

Record crowds welcome Nao Santa Maria to Drogheda, showcasing the town’s maritime heritage and tourism ambition

Drogheda Port Company today announced the resounding success of the visit by the Nao Santa Maria, an authentic, full-scale replica of Christopher Columbus’s flagship from the 1492 voyage. Over a ten-day stay at Fiddle Case Pier, more than 10,000 people stepped aboard the historic vessel, transforming Drogheda’s riverfront into a vibrant celebration of seafaring heritage, cultural exchange, and regional tourism.

Made to feel welcome from the moment the ship berthed, Captain Pablo Fernández and his crew were embraced by the town. In a family-centered spirit, the crew extended opening hours into the evenings so that as many visitors as possible could experience life aboard. During their stay, the sailors explored Drogheda’s historic streets and were hosted by the Old Drogheda Society for a special museum tour and reception, deepening ties with local heritage leaders.

Showcasing the River Boyne’s potential a highlight of the visit was an onboard evening reception focused on the tourism potential of the River Boyne and Drogheda. Guests enjoyed authentic Spanish tapas and paella, with music by renowned flamenco guitarist Juan José Manzano, creating a warm, cross cultural atmosphere that underscored Drogheda’s growing appeal as a destination for distinctive maritime experiences.

Welcomed by the Mayor of Drogheda Declan Power, Spanish Ambassador María Teresa Lizaranzu Perinat highlighted the enduring Spanish Irish relationship and the longstanding trading links between Drogheda Port and Spain that continue today.
Also in attendance Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Seán Canney, referenced the Government’s new port policy and the importance of regional ports such as Drogheda, noting the need for additional deep water capacity on Ireland’s east coast. He commended the strong local team “working to develop Drogheda and put it on the map.”

Drogheda Port Company Chairman, Gerard Deegan, also welcomed the Ambassador, Minister, Mayor, Chief Inspector, port customers, councillors, Drogheda Chamber, Drogheda BIDS, TD Paula Butterly, and Senators Sharon Keogan and Alison Comyn, and thanking the port team whose support helped deliver the event at scale and with exceptional public engagement.

Tourism impact and community pride Across ten days, families, schools, maritime enthusiasts, Coastguard and visitors from across the region filled the quays to tour the decks, meet the crew, and learn about 15th century navigation and shipbuilding. Local businesses reported increased footfall, while the waterfront activation demonstrated how Drogheda can seamlessly coordinate safe, high quality visitor experiences that celebrate the town’s identity and welcome new audiences.

A commitment to culture and commerce Drogheda Port Company remains committed to fostering cultural and economic connections that showcase the River Boyne and the port’s strategic role. By facilitating unique visiting ships and riverfront events, the Port will continue to preserve and celebrate historic links, enrich community life, and strengthen Drogheda’s position as a significant maritime and cultural destination.

21/07/2026

Drogheda Port Welcomes the Iconic Nao Santa María for a Ten-Day Visit

Drogheda Port Company is thrilled to announce the arrival of the Nao Santa María, an authentic, full-scale replica of the legendary flagship captained by Christopher Columbus during his historic 1492 voyage to the New World. The iconic vessel has berthed at Fiddle Case Pier, marking its first-ever visit to Drogheda.

On Friday morning, a special welcoming ceremony was held at Fiddle Case Pier to celebrate the arrival of the Nao Santa María. Representing Drogheda Port Company, Mr Ciaran Callan warmly welcomed the crew and extended the port's best wishes for the duration of their stay. Capt. Laurence Kirwan, Harbourmaster of Drogheda Port, presented commemorative gifts to Capt. Pablo Fernández of the Nao Santa María and Mr Gonzalo Vega Molina of the Spanish Embassy.

The Mayor of Drogheda, Declan Power, officially opened the vessel to the public and expressed his delight at hosting such a significant maritime attraction. He also presented gifts to Capt. Fernández and Mr Vega Molina and had the honour of welcoming the vessel's very first visitor on board.

Ms Desiree Gonzalez, Tour Director and representative of the Nao Victoria Foundation, praised the warm welcome received from the people of Drogheda, noting that more than 1,600 people visited the ship on a single day.

15/07/2026

👀 Keep your eyes peeled! ⚓

A very special visitor is arriving at Drogheda Port tomorrow!

The Nao Santa María—a faithful, full-scale replica of Christopher Columbus' famous flagship from 1492—is expected to arrive from the Mornington direction and should be visible making its way into Drogheda Port from around 1:00pm.

This impressive floating museum features four decks, authentic period rigging, and fascinating exhibits that showcase life at sea and navigation during the 15th century.

🚢 The Nao Santa María will be open to the public from Friday, 17th July, giving visitors the opportunity to step aboard and explore this remarkable historic vessel.

If you're out along the river tomorrow afternoon, keep your camera ready—you won't want to miss this spectacular arrival!