National Maritime Museum of Ireland, Maritime heritage museum in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland.
The National Maritime Museum occupies a former church building in Dun Laoghaire and displays ship models, navigation instruments, and maritime objects across several galleries. The collection includes specialized exhibits such as lighthouse optics, ship equipment, and memorabilia from seafaring history.
The building began in 1837 as a church for seafarers and transformed into a museum in 1974. This change came about through an agreement between the Church of Ireland and the Maritime Institute.
The displays show how Ireland has been tied to the sea across time through its people and trades. Visitors encounter ship equipment and papers that bring this maritime connection to life.
The museum is a five-minute walk from Dun Laoghaire train station, making it easy to reach. Opening hours vary by season, so it is wise to check current times before visiting.
The museum preserves a 10-ton rotating Baily Lighthouse optic that appears in the writings of James Joyce. The collection also holds rare artifacts from the wreck of the RMS Leinster, a notable vessel in Irish maritime history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
