Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
Músaem Bád Eitilte Fhaing
The starting point of the transatlantic flying boat routes of the 1930s and 1940s, and the birthplace of Irish coffee. The museum has a full-scale replica of the Boeing 314.
From 1937 to 1945, Foynes was the hub of the transatlantic seaplane route between Europe and North America. The museum occupies the original terminal building. Its highlight is the world's only full-scale replica of the Boeing 314 'Clipper,' which you can board to see the cockpit, sleeping berths and dining room. There are also the original radio and weather rooms and a maritime gallery. In 1943, chef Joe Sheridan made the first Irish coffee for passengers who were chilled to the bone, and you can taste it at the museum café. Tickets cost about €17, and allow 1.5 to 2 hours. Foynes is about 36 km from Limerick, and the easiest way to get there is to drive along the N69 Shannon Estuary road.
Opening hours
Approx. mid-March to mid-November, 09:00–17:00 (extended in summer)
Nearby sights
- Curraghchase Forest Park
- Ennis Friary
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Quin Abbey
- Adare
- Knappogue Castle
- Craggaunowen
- Thomond Park