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Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum: Reliving Transatlantic History

Discover the golden age of aviation, maritime history, and Hollywood glamour at the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum.

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Step back in time at the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, located in the original Foynes Airport terminal. Discover the story of Foynes as a pivotal aviation hub during the 1930s and 1940s, the birthplace of Irish Coffee, and explore exhibits dedicated to maritime history and Hollywood legend Maureen O'Hara.

A brief summary to Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits, including the replica Boeing 314 flying boat.
  • Don't miss the Irish Coffee Lounge to taste an authentic Irish Coffee where it was first created.
  • Check out the Maureen O'Hara Exhibition, showcasing the life and career of the legendary Irish actress.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Shannon Estuary from the reinstated control tower.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Limerick City, take Bus Éireann route 314 directly to Foynes. The bus departs from The Crescent and arrives in Foynes, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Tickets cost between €7 and €10. From the bus stop in Foynes, the museum is a short walk away.

  • Car

    From Limerick City, drive along the N69 route towards Tralee for approximately 35km (22 miles). The journey takes around 30 minutes. Free parking is available on-site at the museum.

  • Cruise Ship Shuttle

    If arriving by cruise ship, and the ship tenders, a shuttle bus is provided to bring passengers to Foynes village. The shuttle bus will drop you directly in front of the museum. If the cruise ship docks in Foynes, the museum is within walking distance directly across from the port.

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Discover more about Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum

The Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum offers a captivating journey into the golden age of aviation and maritime history. Housed in the original Foynes Airport terminal, which served as a crucial hub for transatlantic flights from 1937 to 1945, the museum brings to life the pioneering era of flying boats. Explore exhibits detailing Foynes' role as a key stopover for Pan American Airways and other international airlines, transporting celebrities, dignitaries, and refugees during World War II. Highlights include a full-scale replica of the Boeing 314 Clipper, offering a glimpse into the luxurious accommodations of these iconic aircraft. The museum also celebrates the invention of Irish Coffee, a serendipitous creation by chef Joe Sheridan in 1943 to warm weary passengers. Visitors can experience a holographic recreation of that famous night and savor an authentic Irish Coffee in the original setting. In addition to aviation history, the museum features exhibits dedicated to maritime history and a collection honoring the life and career of Maureen O'Hara, a beloved Irish actress. The Maureen O'Hara Exhibition showcases her Hollywood dress collection, movie memorabilia, and her Oscar. Visitors can also explore the River Shannon's history through the maritime collection in the control tower. The museum provides interactive displays, including flight simulators, a 100-seater vintage-style cinema, and a dedicated Irish Coffee Centre.

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