Ireland, specifically the City of Cork, has been chosen to host the 2025 European Maritime Day (EMD) – the EU’s premier annual maritime event. The announcement was made today by Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, who noted the appropriateness of Cork, given its rich maritime history.
Eamon Ryan, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications:
“Ahead of Ireland’s presidency of the EU in 2026, it is great news that Ireland will host European Maritime Day, which will take place in the great city of Cork – in partnership with Cork City Council. Ireland is an island nation with a coastline of more than 7,400km. The sea is entwined with our trade, our history and our culture. It is fitting that Europe’s flagship annual maritime event is coming to us. It is also fitting that it will be held in the beautiful city of Cork – a city with a long maritime history and home to the second largest natural harbour in the world.”
Established in 2008, European Maritime Day serves as the EU’s central forum for maritime affairs and sustainable blue growth. The event acts as a convergence point for ‘Ocean Leaders’ and engages young people and citizens across Europe through local activities under the ‘EMD in my Country’ initiative.
The highlight of European Maritime Day is a two-day conference, anticipated to draw over 1,000 delegates. The conference will feature high-level plenary sessions with inspirational speakers, leadership exchanges, and stakeholder workshops, attracting experts and stakeholders from across Europe and beyond.
Cllr. Dan Boyle, Lord Mayor of Cork:
“Cork’s maritime heritage, culture and industry have always been core elements of the City’s identity and vibrancy. For centuries, the city’s Coat of Arm has celebrated Cork as being a ‘safe harbour for ships’ (the Coat of Arms incorporating the Latin inscription Statio Bene Fida Carinas). Hosting European Maritime Day in 2025 provides international recognition and acknowledgment of Cork’s place in Europe as a maritime hub and builds on investment and collaboration with local, national, and European partners.”
The event, which will be co-organised by the Government of Ireland with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications as the lead department, Cork City Council, and DG MARE – the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries from the EU Commission, will also feature a significant exhibition space. This space will host numerous exhibitors from around Europe, showcasing innovations and investment opportunities within the blue economy. It will provide an ideal platform for stakeholders to network, share experiences, and discuss the latest advancements in the sector.
Ireland’s selection as the host for the 2025 European Maritime Day underscores the nation’s integral connection to the sea and its commitment to promoting sustainable maritime practices and growth.