Celtic Wave

Morris Traveller, surfboard and helmet on display in Celtic Wave exhibition
Date
Until 2028

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.

Exhibition highlights

Jet ski in the Celtic Wave exhibition at the Ulster Transport Museum
Climb aboard the jet ski and help big wave surfer Al Mennie tow into a wave!
Celtic Wave exhibition, video viewing area at Ulster Transport Museum
Explore more about the history of surfing in Ireland in this short film.
Red and white surfboard in the Celtic Wave exhibition at Ulster Transport Museum
This massive 11'3"(3.4m) board is a replica of one that was used by big wave surfer Al Mennie.
Jet ski in the Celtic Wave exhibition at the Ulster Transport Museum
Climb aboard the jet ski and help big wave surfer Al Mennie tow into a wave!

Celtic Wave - YouTube Series

This 8 part series documents the history of surfing in Ireland, from its early beginnings in the 1960s through to the present day. Through interviews recorded as research for the Celtic Wave exhibition, hear from local surfers from around the island of Ireland about the early struggles, lack of specialist equipment, development of the sport and its inclusion in the Olympics in one of the most comprehensive explorations of Irish surfing history.

Sustainability

As we take steps towards becoming more sustainable, the majority of the structures in this exhibition have been constructed from FSC approved timber. We have used environmentally friendly, PVC-free panels, and rather than purchasing new electrical equipment, we have recycled where possible. We produced the labels ourselves to reduce carbon emissions through shipping. Learn all about our commitment to being more sustainable here.

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