The Marine Institute, in partnership with Galway City Museum, has announced a vibrant programme of free public outreach events taking place from March through June as part of An Tír Faoi Thoinn – The Land Beneath the Waves. This new public engagement initiative invites people of all ages to explore the extraordinary marine life, habitats and underwater landscapes hidden beneath the surface of Galway Bay.
The outreach series builds on the recently opened exhibition at Galway City Museum, which uncovers the rich biodiversity, cultural heritage and scientific significance of Ireland’s marine environment. Through talks, workshops and interactive experiences, the programme encourages visitors to discover the stories, science and species that shape the waters along Ireland’s west coast.
The programme began earlier this month with a shoreline exploration event delivered in partnership with Galway Atlantaquaria, where participants identified marine species and learned about Ireland’s diverse intertidal ecosystems.
Upcoming events
A major highlight of the series is Stories from the Sea, an evening with award?winning underwater filmmaker Ken O’Sullivan, taking place on Thursday March 26 at Galway City Museum. The event is already fully booked, reflecting the public’s strong appetite for learning more about Ireland’s ocean world. O’Sullivan will share stories and film from more than 25 years exploring the North Atlantic — from encounters with pods of killer whales to filming the world’s largest animals, blue and fin whales. His acclaimed series North Atlantic has been broadcast internationally, and his work has featured in BBC Earth’s celebrated underwater footage collections.
The outreach programme continues with a series of family-friendly workshops and public talks:
Saturday March 28 – A Sea of Colours: Dive into Seaweed Secrets
A hands-on workshop with Julie Grivotte, PhD researcher at University of Galway, exploring seaweed biology, species diversity and ecological importance.
Wednesday April 1 – From Superfood to Fertiliser: Are Seaweeds Ireland’s Hidden Gems?
A lunchtime talk with Julie Grivotte examining traditional and emerging uses of seaweed in Ireland’s coastal communities and industries.
Saturday April 25 – The Living Seafloor: Marine Life and Underwater Landscapes of the West Coast
A talk by marine ecologist and award?winning underwater photographer Nick Pfeiffer, offering insights into the biodiversity and vulnerability of Ireland’s seafloor habitats.
Other events scheduled to take place between March and June include additional beach activities, creative workshops, guided school tours and talks with Marine Institute scientists. Keep an eye on the Galway City Museum and Marine Institute social channels for further details.
“The Marine Institute is proud to collaborate with Galway City Museum in opening a window into the world beneath Galway Bay," said Dr Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute. "Our ocean shapes Ireland’s identity, economy and environment, and programmes like An Tír Faoi Thoinn – The Land Beneath the Waves help us share that story with the public.
"By bringing marine research out of the lab and into a space where people can interact, learn and feel inspired, we’re giving communities the opportunity to explore the marine life on their doorstep and to appreciate the vital role our ocean plays in our national heritage and daily lives.”
All events take place at Galway City Museum and are free of charge, though advance booking is required as places are limited.
The Marine Institute encourages families, community groups, students and ocean enthusiasts to get involved and explore the fascinating world beneath Galway Bay.
“It’s exciting to bring people into conversation with the ocean on their doorstep," said Léa Delhaise, the Marine Institute's graduate intern with Galway City Museum. "These events give visitors a chance to discover the incredible species, stories and science hidden beneath Galway Bay, and to understand how closely connected we all are to marine life. Seeing families, students and ocean enthusiasts engage so enthusiastically has been hugely rewarding.”
Booking
To reserve a place at upcoming events, contact Galway City Museum by email at [email protected], or phone (091 ) 532460.
