Húicéirí (Galway Hookers) by Eilis Petroni & Liam Dossena - Book

The Galway Hooker (Irish: húicéir) is a traditional sailing boat native to Galway Bay and the Connemara coastline. Known for its distinctive appearance, the vessel combines strength with graceful handling, typically featuring a black hull—originally coated in tar for protection—and deep rust-coloured sails. Over time, the Galway Hooker has become a recognised maritime symbol both in Ireland and internationally, its unmistakable outline appearing on the crest of Galway County Council. Efforts to preserve and promote the tradition are led by groups such as Cumann na Húicéirí (the Galway Hooker Association) and Bádóirí an Chladaigh (the Claddagh Boatmen Association). These boats can still be seen racing in summer regattas, while a full-scale example, the Mairtin Oliver, is permanently displayed at Galway City Museum.