Day 22: Kinvara Bay
Before gas and electricity came to Kinvara, turf was the main fuel used for cooking and heating. The majestic Galway Hookers sailed between Connemara and Kinvara laden with this fuel as the Kinvara area had no bogs ( a type of wetland).
Kinvara in turn filled the hookers with grain and produce for their return journey. A strong trade developed between the two regions using these great old cargo boats. Cruinniú na mBád was founded by Tony Moylan in 1979 as a celebration of the traditional commerce that existed between the coasts. It is the festival of the boats, and one of Ireland’s best maritime spectacles, drawing on the regions great boating traditions.
Kate Kelsen 