THE Limerick ketch Ilen brought festive spirit to Galway last weekend as it was transformed into a 70-foot Christmas tree.
LED lights were arranged on the mast of Ireland’s last surviving wooden cargo vessel to spread a green message as well as plenty of seasonal cheer.
The wooden spruce structure was illuminated on the historic sailing ship’s Christmas visit to Galway docks with a light show funded by Ballyneety-based bottled water company Ishka.
“The spruce and the great fir tree, which has gifted Ilen much of her material structure and capacity to harness wind power, impels our crew to cultivate a more ecumenical relationship with nature,” said skipper and Ilen Marine School director, Gary MacMahon.
Mike Sutton, Director of Limerick-based Ishka, said the firm was delighted to have the opportunity to illuminate the vessel, which it has used on several occasions to transport its spring water.
“Mitigating climate change and promoting sustainability is a duty, not an option, and we were happy to spread that message through the voyaging of The Ilen, along with a little Christmas cheer at the same time,” he said.
In June, Ishka sent Ilen to deliver its spring water to a retailer at Kilronan, Aran Islands, loading at Limerick City and docking at Inis Mór, before sailing onward for Galway city.
The wind-powered voyage followed the ancient sea route linking both cities and was organised to highlight the eco-friendly alternatives which businesses can use to reach their customers.
Designed by Limerick man Conor O’Brien in 1926, The Ilen served as a cargo trader for over 70 years, transporting sheep and goods around the Falkland Islands before being repatriated to Ireland 21 years ago and restored by a team led by Mr MacMahon.
It now operates as an educational community vessel, plying her cultural trade around the island of Ireland.
