The oldest port in the country is the proud claim of Waterford which, marking 1,111 years this year has launched a new podcast series ‘Port of Waterford 1111’ which explores the Port’s rich and varied maritime heritage.
The series, which I am presenting, journeys through time to explore the rich and fascinating history of the Port and the City of Waterford — two stories deeply intertwined since the Vikings first set anchor in Waterford over a millennium ago.
On Episode 1 I met the O’Hanlon family, for whom crane driving isn’t just a job—it’s a legacy. For four generations, through 140 years, they have been an integral part of the Port of Waterford’s daily operations, manoeuvring towering cranes with precision and skill high above the bustling docks. The crane driving O’Hanlon Family are Gavin, Michael and Derek, pictured here with Deputy Harbour Master Capt. Ian Moriarty any myself.
In the second episode I talk to historian and author Andrew Doherty, pictured here, founder of the Tides and Tales project now in its 11th year, which has grown into an archive of nearly 300 stories capturing the Southeast’s marine history.
We explore the lives of hobblers, the historic salmon weir conflicts, a WWI U-boat incident in Dunmore East and the enduring cultural significance of Waterford Harbour. These stories are more than history—they’re part of the living memory of local communities. The conversation goes into Waterford’s rich maritime legacy—from the bustling quays of old to iconic landmarks like the Spider Light, and into classrooms where Doherty is reviving traditional knowledge for a new generation. His community-driven work, especially with schools, brings stories of fishing, boat-building, and coastal life vividly to life. The episode also touches on ongoing efforts to reconnect the city with its river, including the North Quays project and a new pedestrian bridge. Andrew stresses the importance of preserving maritime heritage not just for posterity, but as a source of pride, identity, and future opportunity.
Listen to the podcast series at https://www.portofwaterford.com/home/port-1111/
Over the next 6 months, there will be plenty more to come in the series, follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and there is more on PortofWaterford.com
