Saturday 7 September 2024
In our community of sociable sailors, September means one thing: the Three Bridges Rally.
Soon dark evenings, harsh weather and berthing contracts or insurance policy conditions persuade us to mothball our boats ashore for a few months. For many years we have been meeting in the River Liffey as the season wanes for one last waterborne event.
The usual simple ingredients provide the motivation and energy: friends with a shared interest in cruising, boats of all sizes and capabilities, a destination most of our members can reach in a day or so, and a hospitable venue where we can all eat, drink and make music together. It’s not surprising that the event has flourished despite epidemics, bad weather and bridge failures.
The three Liffey crossings downstream from the Talbot Memorial Bridge were designed to open for tall ships, naval vessels, work platforms and boats with masts. They don’t open very often, but it’s important that the capability is recognised, acknowledged and practised. If we don’t raise public awareness then the case for opening spans is harder to make and the economic argument for fixed spans prevails.
It’s a spectacle for the city too. Passers-by stop and wave from the campshires, families make an afternoon of it and photographers have a field day. There are usually small craft around too. We have seen rowers, kayakers, RIB drivers and even a man playing bagpipes.
This year’s rally is on Saturday 7 September. For those who come early Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club extends an invitation to a social event on Friday evening, and boats are welcome there on Sunday evening too. Once again our host ashore is the Clayton Hotel, where we have the use of the Vertigo function room for dinner and entertainment.
Any member of the CAI can participate, with or without a boat. If you are interested please book as early as possible. It’s easy to cancel if your plans change. When you’re ready to confirm, you need to pay an administration fee of €20 per boat (if any), and buy tickets in advance for the three-course buffet dinner at only €30 per person. If you’re committed now you can do all that in one visit to the website.
Event page: https://cruising.ie/three-bridges-2024
Tell your friends, too! CAI membership is open to all sailors who are interested in cruising in Irish coastal waters.