Classic Howth 17’s to visit the Fastnet to celebrate their 125-year anniversary.
Every Picture Tells a Story
But some stories are better than others. Because, incredibly the boat in this photo, Leila, Howth 17 at the Fastnet
is older than the Lighthouse itself ! Built-in 1898 by John Hilditch of Carrickfergus she was already 6 years old when the famous lighthouse went into operation in 1904. This iconic photo was taken in 2003 by WM Nixon. And to hear more about this incredible story follow the link below
Howth 17’s
The Howth 17’s are the oldest classic sailing boat in the World. The first five, all still in use,
were built in 1898 and they have a pedigree and history that is unrivaled. While some in use are older than the Fastnet Lighthouse itself, many of these boats have had long and adventurous careers. So many stories waiting to be told.
The amazing history of the Howth 17’s
A Céad Míle Failte
So it’s a Céad Mile Fáile to a fleet of 13 of these incredible crafts to Carbery’s 100 Isles from June 24th to 30th next. Weather permitting they plan a circumnavigation to include Schull, Crookhaven, Fastnet, Cape Clear Island and Baltimore. Arriving on Cape Clear around 2-3 pm on Wed 28th they will be warmly welcomed with a Barbecue and other refreshments.
Every boat is a winner
Not always true, but in this case its indisputable. And so every participating boat merits an award. And what better than an engraved bottle of 3Sq Miles Gin from Cape Clear Distillery.
These will include both the logo and the name of the boat.
Participating Boats in the 125th Anniversary Celebration of the Howth 17’s.
Sail no Name Year
3 Leila 1898
6 Anita 1900
7 Aura 1898
8 Echo 1914
11 Deilginis 1907
12 Rosemary 1907
14 Gladys 1907
16 Eileen 1908
17 Oona 1909
18 Erica 1988
19 Isobel 1988
20 Sheila 2008
21 Orla 2017