Embarked on our excursion to Whiddy Island courtesy of Dursey Boat Trips.
The delightful weather, pleasant company, and delicious food all added to the fantastic trip. Gratitude extended to Tim and Kathleen O Leary of the Bank House restaurant and bar for their exceptional hospitality, tour of the Island.
Commencing our journey from Castletownbere, we made a brief stop at Bere Island before proceeding to the picturesque Whiddy Island. En route, we passed by the quarry in Adrigole and Zetland before crossing over to Whiddy.
We passed the Oil terminals, serving as a somber reminder of the tragic Whiddy Island disaster that occurred on January 8th, 1979. The catastrophic incident involved the French-owned oil tanker, Betelgeuse, which caught fire and exploded at the Gulf Oil-operated terminal jetty, claiming the lives of 50 individuals.
Upon circling the island, we docked at the jetty in front of the Bank House, where we were warmly welcomed by Tim. Whiddy Island spans approximately 5.6 km (3.5 mi) in length and 2.4 km (1.5 mi) in width.
Our exploration included a visit to the Old Post Office, managed by Mrs. Desmond, who played a vital role in connecting the island's residents with the outside world and the many immigrants who left the Island. Mrs Desmond remains a legend on the Island to this day. We also toured the restored old school house, now functioning as a hostel.
Owing to its strategic position in Bantry Bay, Whiddy Island housed fortified batteries during the Napoleonic wars to deter potential French invasions. Its military significance persisted into World War One, hosting a US naval air station until its closure in 1919.
In the late 1960s, a significant oil terminal was established on the island by Gulf Oil to accommodate supertankers arriving from the Middle East.
The panoramic view from the fort on top of the island was breathtaking, accompanied by an engaging narrative by Tim O'Leary. As the Le George Bernard Shaw sailed under a captivating rainbow, the experience was truly mesmerizing.
Reflecting on the remarkable journey, we express our sincere appreciation to Paul O Shea of Dursey Boat Trips, Tim and Kathleen of the Bank House Restaurant and Bar for their exceptional hospitality, and all on the boat who contributed to making the day truly unforgettable.
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