Traditional Boats of Ireland: History, Folklore, And Construction [Hardcover]

Criostoir MacCarthaigh (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 15, 2008

Once an integral part of trade in Ireland, the country's traditional boats are having a comeback as they are restored for leisure and sport. Traditional Boats of Ireland is a remarkable book exploring the background and uses of these craft. Changing patterns of fishing and water transport are considered, and the wider role of boats in people's lives - boat racing, dramas at sea, and other stories of human interest. Gloriously illustrated with evocative photographs, exquisite boat plans and maps, this wonderful work is the finest and most complete description of Ireland's traditional boats. ""A superb example for all engaged in regional watercraft studies, informative, educational, and simply thoroughly enjoyable reading."" Nautica Research Journal

Editorial Reviews

Review

'A greatly enjoyable read [...] the images alone will give hours of joy' Watercraft magazine 'Impressingly comprehensive' The Irish Times 'Magnificent and scholarly' Irish Examiner 'A right good read' Classic Boat magazine 'Must be congratulated on its wncyclopaedic range, its graceful design, [...] and the generosity of its production values' Heritage Outlook --The Irish Times

Each vessel is examined and described with an entertaining blend of myth, legend, old literary references and oral tradition; modern technology, photography and imaginative graphics complement the descriptive potpourri of illuminated wordplay. --International Journal of Maritime History

About the Author

Criostoir MacCarthaigh is an archivist-collector at the UCD Centre for Irish Folklore. His work on various aspects of Irish tradition such as vernacular architecture, Atlantic island communities, traditional boats and fishing is widely published. He has co-ordinated this study of traditional boats for several years.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 668 pages
• Publisher: Collins Pr (August 15, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1905172397
• ISBN-13: 978-1905172399
• Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 11.4 x 1.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #864,469 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars If you want this book, you need it, October 12, 2009

By 

Cvillereader (VA United States) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Traditional Boats of Ireland: History, Folklore, And Construction (Hardcover)

I grew up going to Ireland in the summer, going out on Loch Corrib in what I now know is an Achill Yawl. If you like wooden boats this is a fabulous book for your library(it's that kind of a book). And man, is it a beautiful book. If you've gotten to the point where you're reading my review you're probably the target audience for the book.

I can't figure out the business model for producing this book - I suspect it was someone's labor of love or the EU threw money at this. It's awfully expensive, but how much will it cost when it's out of print?

5.0 out of 5 stars Traditional boats of Ireland, May 29, 2009

By 

David Sumsion "david" (australia) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Traditional Boats of Ireland: History, Folklore, And Construction (Hardcover)

This is a very high quality book. The information is presented in a very easy to read style. The photo's and graphics are of the highest standard. I could not recomend this book more highly to anyone interested in Ireland, its boats, or its fisheries. Its also gives an interesting account of Irelands history and how it pertains to its maritime development. Any misgivings you have in regards to the price will immediately disapate when you open it for the first time. Do yourself a favour and buy it.
Ps I am not in any way connected with the author or the book, I just love it.