'A significant vote of confidence': Cork City chosen as European Maritime Day 2025 host

Cork City has been selected to host the 2025 European Maritime Day in what has been described as a unique and valuable opportunity to showcase Cork’s potential in hosting future global events.

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan said it was fitting that the EU’s flagship annual maritime event would take place in Cork, which is known for its maritime history.

Established in 2008, European Maritime Day acts as the EU meeting point on maritime affairs and sustainable blue growth.

At the core of European Maritime Day is a two-day conference, which is expected to be attended by more than 1,000 delegates.

Speaking to The Echo about the significance of this event for Cork City, Cork Chamber’s director of public affairs, Cathal McSweeney, said the choice of Cork as host city for European Maritime Day 2025 “demonstrates a recognition of Cork’s importance as a maritime haven, and offers us the opportunity to showcase our maritime infrastructure, industry and history to the European maritime community.”

He said European Maritime Day 2025 will provide an immediate boost to the local economy, and provides an opportunity to showcase Cork’s potential to host events on a global scale. “The event also provides a unique and valuable opportunity to showcase Cork’s potential for future investment in maritime and other sectors, as well as Cork’s capacity to host events on a global scale.

“As a vibrant, welcoming and well-connected port region, Cork is already an attractive location for hosting national and international events.

“However, it goes without saying that the delivery of a purpose-built events ventre would provide a welcome addition to the cultural and economic infrastructure already in place in the city.”

Cork Business Association president Aaron Mansworth echoed this sentiment. He said the prestigious event is “a significant vote of confidence in Cork’s capabilities and its maritime heritage and will bring considerable benefits to Cork”.

He said the event will not only benefit members, but also showcase Cork as a prime destination for future events.

“An event of this magnitude highlights the critical importance of having a dedicated events centre in Cork.

“The development of an events centre is essential for sustaining the momentum of growth and ensuring that Cork remains competitive on the global stage.”