Cork Harbour

Cork Harbour

Port de Cork - William Murphy - cc

Visiter Cork Harbour.

Cork Harbour is a natural harbour on the South Irish coast. It’s the second largest navigable bay in the world, and has a high level of traffic. The bay provides a link to Ireland’s largest cities by sea, from Cork to Cobh.

History of Cork Harbour

Irish Navy Headquarters

But Cork Harbour is also home to the Irish Naval Service.

The Irish military presence on the bay only clearly developed at the time of the Naopleonian Wars, when the towns on the bay gradually erected fortifications to protect themselves from enemy attack.

That’s why there are numerous Martello towers all along the coast, as well as other defensive forts.

Visit Cork Harbour

A bay preserved despite its maritime traffic

Every day, Cork Harbour witnesses a veritable parade of pleasure boats, cargo ships and military vessels. In spite of the large number of visitors, the bay has retained its wild and authentic character, and has perfectly integrated seaside towns such as Cobh.

The bay’s natural formations are numerous, and there are a number of small islands, some of which are inhabited:

  • Great Island
  • Fota Island
  • Haulbowline
  • Little Island
  • Spike Island
  • and Rock Island

As for activities, there’s plenty to do, including boating, sailing, surfing, water-skiing and simple swimming. Fishing is also permitted, provided you have the right equipment for big catches.


Cork Harbour
Practical information

Adresse Adresse :
in Cork, Cork, (County Cork) - Republic of Ireland

Coordonnées GPSGPS :
51.899358595748964, -8.460323411247288

Durée de la visite Tour duration :
30 minutes
TarifsRates :
  • free of charge
Horaires d'ouvertureOpening hours :
  • every day


Cork Harbour on a map



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