Docklands Authority grants license to historic ship

The Docklands Authority has granted a licence for a berth to the historic ship MV Cill Airne in Dublin’s Docklands.  The former naval training ship has been renovated to accommodate a floating restaurant and bar to be based along the quayside at North Wall Quay.

The granting of the licence to the Cill Airne follows the Docklands Authority’s call for water-based businesses that will enliven the River Liffey.  The initiative is part of the Dockland Authority’s River Regeneration Strategy, which is focused on returning the River Liffey to centre of Dublin life and has already seen the launch of business ventures such as the Liffey Voyage tour service, Dublin City Moorings and the purchase of the replica famine ship, the Jeanie Johnson.

The Cill Airne is expected to commence operations later this month.  The ship is owned by Dublin businessmen Larry Crowe, Brian Flannery and Robin Payne, who also own well known restaurants, One Pico, Blue and Nancy Hands.

The Cill Airne was commissioned by the Irish Government in July 1961 and was one of the very last riveted ships to be built in Europe.  Designed to carry over 1,000 passengers, the Cill Airne suffered from the collapse of the liner trade following the increase in airline traffic and was handed to the MaritimeCollege as a training vessel for naval cadets.  The MaritimeCollege’s move to a new building with mock up engine room and sailing simulators resulted in the Cill Airne becoming obsolete and she was placed up for auction by the College. 

David Higgins, Director of Finance, Docklands Authority, said “The Cill Airne will further enhance the Docklands area and ensure that the River Liffey will be the heartbeat of Dublin once more. We look forward to making further announcements on new water-based attractions that will appeal to Dubliners and visitors alike.”

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