Book Tickets

Celtic Wave

Morris Traveller, surfboard and helmet on display in Celtic Wave exhibition
Date
Until 2026

Surfing is a passion, a hobby, a competition. For some, it's a way of life. For others, it's a momentary escape from the bustling world. A moment that allows you to become a part of the ocean, a wave, a moving, living force of nature. Celtic Wave tells the story of these people and their passion.

‘Celtic Wave: A History of Surfing in Ireland' explores the roots of surfing as a sport in Ireland. Beginning in the 1960s with a determined group of men and women, learn how surfing has grown in popularity up to the present day and about its inclusion in the Olympics.

Listen to exclusive interviews with some of the most talented surfers and shapers across the island as they tell their stories. See locally made surfboards as well as examples of more sustainable approaches to surfing equipment including elements of the exhibition itself! Get a chance to ride a jet ski and see if you can tow-in to some monster waves.

Explore the collection

Navy top with turquoise stars
HOYFM.2021.83.1 Maker: OceanR Origin: Cork Rash vests are an extra layer of clothing worn underneath a wetsuit to provide more warmth. Most of the polyester in these rash vests is made from recycled plastic water bottles. The bottles are cleaned and shredded into pellets before being melted to make fibre which is then processed into fabric.
Turquoise long sleeved top with navy sleeves
HOYFM.2021.83.1 Maker: OceanR Origin: Cork
Navy Rashr Long Sleeved Top
HOYFM.2021.83.2 Maker: OceanR Origin: Cork
Navy top with turquoise stars
HOYFM.2021.83.1 Maker: OceanR Origin: Cork Rash vests are an extra layer of clothing worn underneath a wetsuit to provide more warmth. Most of the polyester in these rash vests is made from recycled plastic water bottles. The bottles are cleaned and shredded into pellets before being melted to make fibre which is then processed into fabric.
Local Waves, National Museums NI Podcast

Listen Now

We have partnered with NI Science Festival to present to you Local Waves, a four-part podcast series hosted by Curator of Transport and Industry, Clare Ablett, interviewing local people from across Northern Ireland who interact with the sea in different ways to learn about their 'local waves'.