Jeanie Johnston
The Jeanie Johnson is a 148ft replica sailboat, recreating a 19th century sailing ship used for the transport of Irish emigrants to the new world, that now operates as a Sail Training vessel, a Famine History Museum and venue for corporate entertainment.
Built at Blennerville, near Tralee, Co. Kerry, the Jeanie Johnston is one of Ireland's most ambitious maritime heritage projects: a stunning replica of a 19th century sailing ship. Completed in 2002, the results are impressive, for sailors and non-sailors alike: a graceful, triple-masted vessel that's gorgeous to behold, measuring 45m (148ft), with a beam: 8m (26ft). Each of the three masts have four square sails per mast, and single topsails.
The Jeanie Johnston fulfills many rolls. When in port it fills its roll as a famine history museum, interpreting Ireland's nautical heritage. The Jeanie Johnston preserves one of the last sailing vessels before the steam ship era dawned It also interprets a vitally important era of Irish history, during the famine years when so many Irish were destitute and desperate to emigrate. The onboard museum transports visitors back 150 years to join the poverty stricken emigrants in their harsh world below deck. During the height of the famine this former cargo ship was enlisted to for the task of moving people, transporting 2,500 emigrants on 16 voyages to America during its seven years. Though conditions were surely bleak, miraculously there were no casualties on board, thus Jeanie Johnson cannot be accurately dubbed a "coffin ship." Credit given to a caring owner and dedicated captain and crew.
The Jeanie Johnston also serves as a sail training vessel, captained and crewed by a team of highly skilled sailors. Voyages occur a couple dozen times each year, typically last between two and three nights, and cruise memorable stretches of Irish coastline, including Dublin to Cork, Cork to Bantry, and Dingle to Galway. Participants can learn valuable skills in seamanship, climb the rigging, hoist the sails, heave lines, take the helm and participate in watch duties. For first timers and experienced sailors alike, life aboard Jeanie Johnston is a great adventure. All that is required is a passion for sailing and a love of the sea.
