Dunmore East (Waterford), Ireland

Although the Irish Free State is barely 70 years old (its constitution was ratified in 1937), the history of Ireland dates back almost 6,000 years. Much of the country still remains unexcavated and farmers digging in fields have been known to turn up valuable artifacts detailing ancient origins. The island of Ireland lies to the west of Great Britain, separated by the Irish Sea. No part of Ireland is more than 70 miles from any of its surrounding waters: the Atlantic Ocean, the Irish Sea, and the St. George and North Channels. Known as the Crystal County, Waterford is located on the southeast side of Ireland. Possibly the most famous tourist attraction, established in 1783, is the Waterford Crystal Factory, which has gained worldwide recognition as a creator of crystal for connoisseurs. Waterford, the city, is rather small and compact, which allows for easy sightseeing on foot. Take a stroll along the quays or perhaps wander through the historic district around Reginald’s Tower, a landmark said to have been built in 1003 by a Viking governor named, of course, Reginald. The main seaport of Waterford is the picturesque fishing village of Dunmore East, and this is where the tenders will bring you ashore. Whether taking in the sights or sipping a beer in a cozy pub, visitors to this area are sure to enjoy the history and hospitality of Ireland. The harbor is one of the five designated National Fishery Harbors, and has the second highest figure for fish landings after Killybegs. Dunmore is noted for: The first Irish woman to qualify for a skipper's ticket in fishing, the first official woman crew member in an RNLI Lifeboat and the world record holder for the largest tuna caught on a rod. The long established fishing industry is under threat from governmental restrictions designed to protect stocks. A plan has been developed (2005) by Waterford County Council to expand the harbor to accommodate more recreational marine activities.